"...These changes are good news for Scotland’s development sector..."

Here is the first, of I am sure, many views that will be presented during the consultation period on both Scottish Planning Policy and the Draft Third National Planning Framework.

Extract below is from this article here


'...By publishing the first review of the Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) and a draft Main Issues Report to support the preparation of a new National Planning Framework (NPF3), the government appears keen to review planning in a way that better reflects the transformation of the Scottish economy over the past three years since the SPP was first prepared. Overall, it’s good news for the development sector on a number of fronts.

The document definitely does not maintain the status quo, and instead brings about some important changes that will affect developers and planning authorities alike. For developers though, perhaps the most important change is the decision to attach significant weight to the economic benefits of development in all applications.'

'...The revised policies place an emphasis on sustainable economic growth, emphasising that the right development in the right place, streamlining some areas of policy, and providing a more considered approach for others. These changes are good news for Scotland’s development sector and will help encourage movement in an area critical to its economy. The latest GDP figures show construction grew by 0.6 per cent following a period of contraction in previous quarters, demonstrating its inextricable link and relationship with the wider economy. 

It goes without saying that, during these tough economic times, any stimulus is to be welcomed. The opportunity is open to all stakeholders to have their say, with the consultation on both documents running until 23 July 2013. 

ENDS