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New guidelines on sustainable landscape policy unveiled by McLeish
26/02/1998
Guidelines to encourage professionals in the landscape industry to work together to implement more environmentally-friendly roads projects was launched today by Henry McLeish, Scottish Transport Minister.
The policy sets out the new landscape design and management policy for the Scottish trunk road network and is the result of extensive public consultations and a review of existing practice.
Commenting on the publication, Mr McLeish said:
"This government is fully committed to developing the philosophy of sustainable development across all areas to ensure every policy initiative we implement recognises the importance of caring for the environment. That message will be at the heart of the Scottish Integrated Transport White Paper which we will publish in the summer.
"The procedures introduced here for the landscape professions are progressive and very welcome. They will allow professionals to use their own initiative and explore alternative approaches while working with engineers.
"This policy also promotes more planting of native Scottish trees and sets out a previously-unpublished approach to their selection and procurement. I urge all sections of the landscape industry in Scotland to seize this opportunity and work together to benefit our environment."
BACKGROUND
1. The Scottish Office Development Department National Roads Directorate commissioned a review of its landscape design and management policy in September 1995.
2. A consultation document, Cost Effective Landscape: Working with Nature, was published in September 1996 and circulated for comment. An enthusiastic response was received. The consultation document was radically revamped to take account of comments received and further research was also commissioned.
3. Copies of the document will be available from HMSO outlets at a cost of £15.
News Release: 0373/98
February 26, 1998