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Guidance to planning authorities on electro-magnetic fields
29/12/1998
A consultation paper giving draft guidance to planning authorities on electro-magnetic fields was issued today by Scottish Planning Minister Calum MacDonald.
Electro-magnetic fields (EMFs) occur naturally and also arise from man-made sources including hairdryers, televisions, mobile phones and electricity power lines. People are exposed to EMFs as a regular part of their daily lives.
The planning guidelines explain that:
· It is for the planning authority to decide the circumstances in which health issues are material when considering planning applications.
· Development plan policies should take account of health and safety legislation and advice given by the National Radiological Protection Board on EMFs
· Public exposure to EMFs is normally well below guideline levels.
· Advice from the National Radiological Protection Board is that there is no convincing evidence of a causal link between EMFs and cancer
Mr MacDonald said:
"I am aware that concerns have been raised over the possible health effects of electro-magnetic fields from overhead power lines and telecommunications masts. For this reason I am today issuing a consultation paper giving guidance for planning authorities when considering developments which either give rise to or are in the vicinity of electro-magnetic fields."
BACKGROUND
1. The Department of Environment, Transport and the Regions recently published a similar consultation paper for England and Wales.
2. Non-media copies of the paper may be obtained from The Scottish Office Development Department, Planning Division, Mail Point 13A, Victoria Quay, Edinburgh, EH6 6QQ, or by telephoning 0131 244 7066.
News Release: 2720/98
29 December 1998