This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Edinburgh and Lothians Structure Plan approved
17/06/2004
Scottish Ministers today approved the Edinburgh and the
Lothians Structure Plan.
The Plan provides a long term vision to shape
development and safeguard the environment in the area until
2015. Ministers' approval is subject to a number of
modifications. The most significant modifications
involve:
• Early review of the Plan to take account of ongoing
transport and housing concerns.
• An indication of further long term housing
opportunities, particularly in West Lothian.
• The inclusion of a more effective and timely
process for monitoring housing land supply.
• A reduction in the extent of the core development
area around the A701 corridor.
• Changes to waste and flooding policies to bring
them in line with national policy.
Communities Minister Margaret Curran said:
"In this fast growing area it is essential that there
are up-to-date planning policies. These help to help
deliver development needs in sustainable locations and to
protect the heritage which underpins the area's quality of
life. This Structure Plan is fundamental in delivering
these aims. Therefore, I am approving it subject to
relatively small number of modifications.
"However, the plan must be subject to regular
assessment. In particular, there is clearly a need for
further work to consider the options for dealing with the
growing needs of the area. That is why I am requiring the
authorities to undertake an early review of the Plan. This
will examine where best to locate further housing
development, taking account of transport, landscape and
other factors."
The Structure Plan has been prepared jointly by
Edinburgh City Council, East Lothian Council, Midlothian
Council and West Lothian Council and was submitted to
Scottish Ministers in June 2003.
Ministers indicated in January 2004 that they were
minded to approve the plan subject to a number of draft
modifications. These were advertised and a six week period
allowed for further objections and representations. All of
these have now been considered and Ministers have approved
the plan.
Some amendments have been made to the modifications to
take account of concerns raised by objectors. Most of
these involve further clarification of the housing
policies.
A copy of the
decision letter, including the modifications is
available.