Planning for a better future

Planning affects everyone’s lives, from making sure we have the right types of homes to improving our places and driving forward regeneration.

When we launched the planning consultation on 10 January, the Scottish Government set out 20 proposals for revamping the system, which will support economic growth, delivery of houses and increase community involvement in planning decisions. They form a consultation which will pave the way for a planning bill to be brought forward this year.

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The proposals build on recommendations of an independent review carried out by a panel of experts last year. Key changes include simplifying our system of development plans, improving consultation procedures and removing the need to apply for planning permission for more types of development.

It is clear we need a strong and efficient system for long-term economic growth. And I believe these proposals will mean we are better placed to make high quality development happen sooner and in the right places.

Right across Scotland, planners can lead the delivery of great places, empower communities and provide a stable environment for investment through the uncertain times we live in. The consultation also seeks views on new rights for communities to produce their own plans for their local area. 

So as we reach the half-way point in our consultation I would encourage everyone, wherever they live in our beautiful country, to take an interest in planning. Whether you are a developer or business, a professional or local authority, a community group or an individual member of the public, we want to hear what you think of our proposals for change.

The consultation, “Places, people and planning” runs until Tuesday 4 April, and can be accessed here.