The Scottish Government

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1. An objection to a local plan must be made in writing and must contain the name and address of the objector together (preferably) with a telephone number where contact can be made during office hours.

2. The objection should state:

a. the precise matters to which the objection relates by reference to a specific paragraph number, policy or proposal in the local plan, or to the grid reference and land use allocation of an item shown on the proposals map; it should be noted that objections can relate to the text of the plan, the content of the proposals map, or to an omission of some matter from the plan;

b. the grounds on which the objection is made and the details of the change that is sought, for example the revised wording or map allocation that would be an acceptable alternative, or an addition to correct an omission;

c. whether the objection may be considered on the basis of a written submission, without hearing oral evidence from you at any local plan inquiry. It should be noted that objections proceeding by written submissions have the same status as those heard at an inquiry and the Reporter will cover the matter in the report and make recommendations to the planning authority. The rights of objectors who opt to use this method are no different from those participating in an inquiry, and it is a more efficient way of considering objections that do not require investigation of complex issues;

d. if the objector wishes to be heard at a local plan inquiry, whether he/she is prepared to group with other objectors concerned about the same issue;

e. whether the objector intends to be professionally represented at the inquiry and if so, the name, address and details of their agent, if available.

3. Objections to the contents of a local plan should be on land use planning grounds; for example, in relation to the location or environmental impact of particular plan proposals.

4. Objections cannot be treated as confidential.

5. Once all objections have been considered fully the Planning Authority will prepare a statement of their decision on each, together with the reasons therefor. This statement will be available for inspection at the authority's offices and you will be informed of its availability by letter. In addition, its availability will be advertised in the local press by means of a Notice to Modify, Adopt or Abandon the plan.

6. A Code of Practice for Local Plan Inquiries, published by The Scottish Office Development Department, is available free of charge from the Planning Authority on request.

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