FEbruary 2010
Simplified Planning Policy
The Scottish Government has published its policy on nationally important land use planning matters. A planning circular has also been published, providing guidance on planning agreements.
The Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) is the statement of Scottish Government's planning policy on topics such as housing, wind farms, flooding and the natural and built environment. It consolidates seventeen separate policies into one single document, making it easier for communities and developers to understand and interpret the policy.
The SPP covers a number of important issues, described in the statement as:
- the purpose of planning,
- the core principles and objectives for the planning system,
- statutory guidance on sustainable development and planning,
- concise subject planning policies, and
- the intended outcomes of the system.
Commenting on the consolidated SPP, Phil Miller, Chairman of the Scottish Property Federation, welcomed its emphasis on facilitating and encouraging appropriate development.
"Implementing the SPP will require political leaders, planning officials and the private sector to redouble their efforts to build strong working relationships to deliver the quality planning system that Scotland deserves," he said.
He also welcomed the revision of the circular on planning agreements. This updates the guidance on the criteria and processes involved when developers are required to make a contribution to the provision of local infrastructure.
He confirmed that the Federation supports the circular's emphasis on reasonable and proportionate contributions.
"It is vital in the current fiscal environment that both the private sector and local authorities support the Scottish Government's clear intention that planning agreements should be realistic and guided by development economics and viability," he said.