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This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007

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Maximum parking standards

06/03/2003

The Executive today published a Scottish Planning Policy setting out guidance for local authorities on the maximum number of car parking spaces which new developments in their area should contain.

Commenting on 'Maximum Parking Standards', Deputy Social Justice Minister Des McNulty said:

"This guidance forms part of the Executive's commitment to encouraging greener alternatives to car travel where possible.

"The guidance means that local authorities will be able to set maximum levels on parking for any new developments in their area.

"The standards will provide businesses and developers with clear guidance and confidence in what will be required of them in providing access to their premises. By constraining car parking for new developments, this policy encourages developers to think about how people access their development.

"Where developers provide for access by walking, cycling and public transport as well as by car, they give car drivers a choice of alternative means of travel, with huge environmental and health benefits. This is also good news for those without access to a car, as it will boost demand for public transport and encourage walking and cycling.

"The guidance also deals with cycle parking and parking for the disabled. It sets out minimum standards for disabled parking at retail, leisure and recreation developments, and encourages local authorities to take action against the abuse of disabled spaces."

"This guidance contributes towards the Executive's aim of building for the long term by creating a prosperous, healthy and sustainable Scotland."

This guidance develops policy set out in April 1999 - guidance on shifting from minimum car parking standards (at least 1 space per x sq.m.) to maximum standards (no more than 1 space per x sq.m.).

It sets out general guidance to local authorities on applying the new policy, and for certain significant travel-generating developments above a specified size threshold sets out national maximum car parking standards.

Page updated: Wednesday, July 21, 2004