Scotland's Economy

Planning for growth

January 16, 2013 by Derek Mackay MSP No Comments | Category Planning

Last night, the Scottish Parliament passed a motion which stressed the importance of the planning system for sustainable economic growth, and the importance of working collaboratively to improve the planning system.

We must not underestimate the role planning plays in delivering sustainable economic growth. People who want to invest in construction projects in Scotland need a planning system that is timely, reliable and fair.

The Scottish Government is committed to improving the performance of our planning system. In 2009, we introduced the most comprehensive programme of planning reform in a generation. But there is more still to do, and last year I outlined the further ways we intend to improve that system, including a new performance framework, agreed with Heads of Planning Scotland.

Yesterday I told Parliament that I will, jointly with COSLA, chair a group to support improved planning performance in Scotland.

COSLA and I are determined that we should deliver the high performing planning system Scotland deserves. We are working together with planning authorities and other key stakeholders to deliver this improvement and ensure that pace towards positive change is maintained. This Spring, the Scottish Government will publish a report the progress being made throughout Scotland under the new framework.

I know resourcing is a real issue for local authorities, and last month I announced a 20 per cent increase in planning fees. At the same time I have made clear that any increase in fees must be linked to improved performance.

I also published a document, “Key Actions on Planning Reform”, which sets out the steps the Scottish Government will take to reform the planning system. As well as taking concerted action to boost planning performance, working closely with COSLA, the document includes work to promote a plan led system and refine the examination process to ensure development plans are up to date. The document also covers work to simplify and streamline the planning process, including extending permitted development rights.

Tags: COSLA, planning reform

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