The Scottish Government

The Planning Bulletin Issue No 18

December 1999

Foreword

The last few months have seen a Scottish Parliament sit for the first time in almost 300 years, the formation of a Scottish Executive with a Minister for Transport and the Environment, Sarah Boyack, whose responsibilities include land use planning. It therefore seemed an appropriate time to give the Planning Bulletin a new look and format.

We propose to publish the Bulletin annually. A supplement to the Bulletin, which we intend to update and issue on a 6 monthly basis, will include information on development plan progress, publications and research.

In this edition are extracts from Ms Boyack's speech at the Royal Town Planning Institute Scottish Branch annual conference in Glasgow. The Minister spoke of her intention to make planning work more efficiently and effectively with clearer long term vision.

The Bulletin also looks at some of the planning issues associated with the new Parliament building at Holyrood and outlines the remit and early activities of the Transport and Environment Committee.

European planning issues, recent developments in planning legislation and a overview of the new Planning Advice Note on Improving Town Centres are described.

There is a full list of current Circulars, National Planning Policy Guidelines and Planning Advice Notes. Two important Codes of Practice on Telecom Masts as well as speeding up planning procedures are discussed. Progress with structure and local plans is recorded as are current issues in development control performance.

Recently completed research is listed and there is an article on the Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning.

Finally the Bulletin summarises the responses to the consultation paper Land Use Planning Under a Scottish Parliament. An overview of the responses was publised in October.

All the publications discussed within this Bulletin can be found on our website at: www.scotland.gov.uk/planning

Sarah Boyack MSP
Minister for Transport and the Environment

The Minister responsible for land use planning is Sarah Boyack MSP, a member of the Scottish Cabinet. Ms Boyack's other responsibilities are transport, including the development of integrated transport policies for rural areas, the environment, natural heritage, sustainable development and strategic environmental assessments.

The Minister spoke of her intention to make planning work more efficiently and effectively at the Royal Town Planning Institute Scottish Branch annual conference in Glasgow on 25th November, Ms Boyack said:

"The Scottish Executive sees planning as playing an important role in our objectives for improving the quality of Governance, promoting social justice, enhancing competitiveness and delivering a high quality environment. Our Programme for Government stressed our commitment to improving the operation of the system.

"I want planning to be positive. I want it to be recognised as much for its enabling role as for its regulatory function. It needs to earn that recognition by demonstrating added value.

"It's clear from the responses to the consultation paper on Land Use Planning under a Scottish Parliament, and from listening to what people have to say, that there's no outcry for massive change to the planning system. The overwhelming conclusion is that it should be made to work better.

"Many of the concerns in responses echoed those of the construction industry, the retail sector and the financial sector in the Pathfinders to the Parliament report,
where the need for greater vision in planning and the speeding up of planning decisions were strongly highlighted. We must address these issues.

"The components of the system are in place. They need to be worked efficiently and effectively. But they need to work in real time. Re-energising the system, making it work
more effectively and changing the culture of plan making will require commitment - from the Scottish Executive as well as from every local authority. I want the private sector and agencies to play their part, particularly in development plans where I expect them to contribute to policy development early on to help get the plans and policies right first time.

"I don't propose to alter the balance of responsibility on planning between the Executive and local councils. But I am conscious that there is a need for a focus on what our vision is for Scotland as we pull together our ideas for transport and the environment, economic development and housing, on energy use, and waste management. I know the RTPI in Scotland is developing its thinking on a National Planning Framework. The outcome of that exercise is one I await with interest."

The Minister announced:

• new arrangements for preparing National Planning Policy Guidelines (NPPGs), to ensure more openness, transparency and inclusion. As part of the new approach, the intention to prepare or revise NPPGs will be announced in advance
• an immediate priority to begin the revision of NPPG 1 on the planning system and NPPG 6 on renewable energy
• action to reduce the 12 month target for Scottish Ministers to approve structure plans
• the need for clearer long-term vision in structure plans
• that she is looking to introduce timetables for local and structure plan preparation
• that the focus of the Planning Audit Unit's work with councils will move to development planning
• the production, jointly with COSLA, of a training manual and code of conduct for councillors; and
• the intention to prepare an "easy read" guide to the planning system

Comments on the consultation paper Land Use Planning Under a Scottish Parliament are discussed on page 17. The overview and a fuller digest of responses can be found on the Scottish Executive website at: www.scotland.gov.uk/planning

The Scottish Parliament Building

"I am convinced that when the people of Scotland see these designs they will agree that we now have an exciting, dramatic building that will be a fitting focus for the country's aspirations" - Donald Dewar MP, MSP.

At the foot of the Royal Mile within the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Parliament building will be located close to the Palace of Holyroodhouse with a southern outlook on to Salisbury Crags.

The area nearby is being redeveloped with an exciting mix of housing, retail, hotel and office developments. Across Holyrood Road is the Dynamic Earth, opened to the public earlier this year.

The Building

The Building User Brief for Holyrood aims to make this an exemplar project. Energy efficiency and environmentally conscious design principles, are being deployed with the design team seeking to provide a quality internal environment maintenance regime which will optimise energy consumption.

There will be maximum use of natural lighting and ventilation via windows, passive cooling and solar design, renewable resources and recycled materials.

The materials for the building will include reconstructed stone panels, using crushed aggregate of the original stone from old buildings on the site, and precast concrete; a render and limewash finish to Queensberry House; and glazing and coated steel for the Chamber roof.

Setting

Care has been taken with approaches to the public entrance from the magnificent sweep of Salisbury Crags, the green space of Holyrood Park and the Palace areas across Horse Wynd.

Integration of landscape and buildings in the design is reflected in the complex of shapes and heights, appropriate to this part of the Old Town; the visual interest generated in the Canongate by the Constituency Wall; and the design of the public areas of the Chamber and Committee Rooms.

Architect Enrico Miralles intends to make full use of light and the surrounding landscape with a dramatic vaulted entrance ceiling formed by the floor of the Parliament Chamber above. This entrance is intended to emphasise that this is to be the people's Parliament and that the people are able to be active participants.

Transport

Public transport, which currently runs through the Canongate, will not be disrupted during, or after, construction of the Parliament building.

The undoubted increase in numbers travelling to the Parliament will need to be catered for. Strategic access is clearly an important issue and a report was commissioned in 1998 by The Scottish Office, City of Edinburgh Council and LEEL. This looked at a number of options including the opportunity for a circuit bus route connecting Holyrood with the city centre.

Access

Proposals are under consideration to close the east end of Holyrood Road to traffic next year to allow landscaping work to take place. If agreed, the foot of Holyrood Road would remain closed to vehicles after completion of the Parliament building but a pedestrian/wheelchair/cycle route would be put in place between the Dynamic Earth development and the Palace of Holyrood with an entrance to Holyrood Park. Negotiations are underway to arrange for traffic to be diverted into Holyrood Park for access between Holyrood Road and Horse Wynd.

The opportunity to strengthen the "walkway" between the Holyrood and the rest of the city has been recognised as a key factor and it is intended to have suitable arrangements in place for the target completion of Autumn 2002.

Transport and Environment Committee

Helen Eadie (Dunfermline East)(Lab)	Convener: Andy Kerr (East Kilbride)(Lab) Committee Clerk: Lynn Tullis	Robin Harper (Lothians)(Green)
Linda Fabiani (Central Scotland) (SNP)	The Transport and Environment Committee met for the first time on 30 June to elect a convener and to discuss its remit. The Minister for Transport and Environment attended a meeting of the Committee on the 8 September, to give evidence on her role and the current work of her department before taking questions from the committee members. The committee has discussed its work programme which will incorporate a consideration of the legislative proposals for national parks, transport and access, the Executive report on the Strategic Roads Review and the National Waste Strategy, an investigation into the Executive's proposals for consideration of telecom masts and further briefing on issues relating to concessionary fares. During the parliamentary recess, the committee held a two day session to take briefings over the entire area of its remit. As part of this, it held sessions on planning and on national parks. The full transcript of the T&E Committee proceedings is available on the Scottish Parliament web site or contact David McGill on 0131 348 5235 and at: David.McGill@scottish.parliament.uk	Des McNulty (Clydeback and Milngavie) (Lab)
Janis Hughes (Glasgow Rutherglen) (Lab)		Nora Radcliffe (Gordon) (LD)
Cathy Jamieson (Carrick, Cumnock & Doon Valley) (Lab)		Tavish Scott (Shetland) (LD)
Kenny MacAskill (Lothians) (SNP)		Murry Tosh (South of Scotland) (Con)

European Spatial Development Perspective

On 8th and 9th May, in Potsdam, European Union Planning Ministers and the European Commission agreed the final version of the European Spatial Development Perspective (ESDP).

Background

Regional disparities and imbalances in the level of development within the European Union (EU) are concerns of long standing. Spatial planning - which is a broader concept than town and country planning - is regarded by some as important in helping to achieve more harmonious and balanced development, including the better integration of peripheral areas.

Preparation of the ESDP

The Committee on Spatial Development (CSD), which was set up in 1991, is the main forum through which the ESDP has been progressed. Each Member State sends a delegation to the CSD. The Commission acts as a secretariat and the chair of the Committee changes every 6 months in line with the Presidency of the EU.

Towards the end of the Presidency there is usually an informal meeting of Ministers, although this is not mandatory. Discussion on spatial planning is often combined with regional policy but this is not always the case. The decision to prepare an ESDP was taken at a Ministerial meeting in Liège in 1993.

Progress with the ESDP has not been smooth. It has rather depended on the priorities of successive Presidencies and the resources they can bring to the task. Some Member States, because of their location, are acutely aware of the impact of development in a neighbouring country on settlement pattern, transport flows, environmental quality, etc. For other Member States these issues are less pressing but with the prospect of EU enlargement the need to understand and respond to the changing economic geography of Europe is widely accepted.

There have also been concerns about the implications of the ESDP and how it might be applied. The Ministerial meeting at Leipzig set out some general principles for the ESDP, including that it should be non-binding and respect the principle of subsidiarity.

Content

The ESDP seeks to balance Community aims relating to:-

• economic and social cohesion
• competitiveness
• sustainable development

The document outlines the main demographic, economic and environmental trends affecting the future spatial development of the EU. It considers issues such as urban structures; the future of rural areas; transport, communication and knowledge; pressures on Europe's natural and cultural heritage; and also provides an initial assessment of the spatial impact of selected Community sectoral policies.

The ESDP seeks to address these issues by encouraging balanced development through an integrated approach across policy sectors and between levels of administration. Co-operation within and between Member States is the key to the application of the ESDP. Community funding, principally through the INTERREG IIC programmes and through Article 10 Pilot Projects, can help encourage schemes which demonstrate this co-operation and foster the sharing of information and experience.

Scotland is included in 3 spatial planning programmes under INTERREG IIC:-

• North Sea
• North West Metropolitan Area
• Atlantic Area

In addition the Highlands & Islands of Scotland are included in the Northern Periphery Programme under Article 10 of the ERDF regulations. This aims to promote cooperation between areas which are remote from major centres of population, sparsely populated and where communications can be difficult.

Consultation

Each Member State undertook consultations on the draft ESDP agreed at Noordwijk in the Netherlands in June 1997. In the UK, consultations were held with a broad range of interested bodies in the autumn of 1997. Although some points of detail were queried those who participated were generally supportive of the work. Inter-service consultations also took place within the Commission and with other European institutions such as the European Parliament and the Committee of the Regions. A series of transnational fora on the ESDP was launched, concluding with a final seminar, attended by over 700, in Brussels in February 1999 .

The results of these consultations influenced the final version of the ESDP agreed in Potsdam. An English language version of the document should be available in autumn 1999.

The Finnish Presidency has prepared a programme of action to take forward some of the issues in the ESDP, including the European Spatial Planning Observatory Network (ESPON). This was agreed at an Informal Meeting of Ministers in Tampere on 4 and 5 October.

Conclusions

The ESDP is not an additional European layer of statutory planning and it aims to provide a perspective, rather than being prescriptive. It does, however, encourage all levels of Government to look beyond their immediate boundaries, to recognise the wider spatial context in which they operate and provide a framework for voluntary co-operation.

An English language version of the ESDP can be found at the European Union web site at: www.inforegio.cec.eu.int

Enquiries about the ESDP should be addressed to Jim Mackinnon 0131 244 7081 and at: jim.mackinnon@scotland.gov.uk

INTERREG IIC

Atlantic Area

The Atlantic Area is a partnership involving regions in the United Kingdom, Portugal, France, Spain and the Republic of Ireland, with a total budget of £13.03M, £3.75M in the UK.

The programme seeks to enhance spatial development through a series of measures targeted at the promotion of integrated planning and management of coastal areas, the protection of natural areas and the management of natural resources; and the environment. The Programme was approved in May 1999 and a meeting was held in October 1999 to approve projects.

The North Sea Programme

The North Sea Region Programme aims to create a cohesive region by addressing issues of economic and social cohesion; sustainable development; the promotion of a spatial structure; and transnational co-operation in spatial planning.

The Programme has been one of the more successful INTERREG II projects, certainly so far as Scotland is concerned, and many useful and innovative programmes have been submitted for funding. Interest in the Programme continues to grow and it is noteworthy that the UK shows the second highest commitment level so far.

North West Metropolitan Area

The North West Metropolitan Area comprises all of the UK and the Republic of Ireland and regions of the Netherlands, France, Germany, Luxembourg and Belgium. It has a particular focus on metropolitan planning issues.

The Programme was approved in June 1998 and so far three UK led projects have been approved.

THE NORTHERN PERIPHERY PROGRAMME

The Northern Periphery Programme (NPP) was established in 1997 by the governments of the United Kingdom, Sweden, Finland and Norway.

The areas involved are the Highlands & Islands Objective 1 Area and the Objective 5b Areas of North and West Grampian, and Rural Stirling and Upland Tayside; and the northern-most parts of Sweden, Finland and Norway.

The overall objective of the NPP is to contribute to the improvement of services and value creation in the Northern Periphery in ways compatible with the principles of sustainable development,through transnational exchange of experience.

The total budget for the NPP is £13.33 million, half of which is financed by national public assistance and half by the Commission and the Norwegian Government. Projects under the Programme are required to be approved by the end of December 1999, however activities can continue to be funded up to the end of 2001.

The NPP is considered to have been very successful and of benefit and value to Scottish-Nordic co-operation. Consequently ways by which the success of the NPP can be continued into the new Programme period, especially under the INTERREG III initiative are being considered.

Enquiries about spatial planning initiatives should be addressed to Jim Millard or Elizabeth Williamson
0131 244 0692/0736
and at:

jim.millard@scotland.gov.uk
elizabeth.williamson@scotland.gov.uk

Environmental Impact Assessment

Environmental Impact Assessment (Scotland) Regulations 1999

This year marks a new era in environmental impact assessment (EIA) with the EIA (Scotland) Regulations 1999 coming into force on August, superseding the Environmental Assessment (Scotland) Regulations 1988 for planning purposes. It also heralds a new name, as EIA replaces the term environmental assessment (EA), although in practice the two terms have been interchangeable for some time.

Schedules 1&2

An EIA is always required for a Schedule 1 project which by virtue of its nature or scale is always likely to have a significant environmental effect. The statutory requirements for an EIA to projects within Schedule 1 has expanded from nine to twenty categories. New categories now include dual carriageways over 10 km long and piers for loading/unloading but the majority of the new categories result from the promotion of Schedule 2 projects within the old regulation.

Within Schedule 2 there has been some consolidation of project descriptions. Some have expanded to allow for more specific definition and others have been reorganised by the creation of new project categories.

Only a few of the alterations actually represent the addition of completely new project types. A new class, Tourism & Leisure combines projects previously classified under Infrastructure (e.g. ski lifts) or Other Projects (e.g. yacht marinas) with new projects such as permanent camp/ caravan sites. Shopping centres and car parks, sports stadia, leisure centres and multiplex cinemas are now specifically mentioned as Schedule 2 projects under urban development projects.

Bargiuilean Taynult

Procedural Changes

Previously any project listed within Schedule 2 (of the 1988 Regulations) had to be considered as potentially requiring EIA. Under the new regulations only those which meet or exceed specific thresholds or are in certain defined sensitive areas will require to be considered as potential EIA applications.

There is now a requirement for the planning authority to provide a written opinion of the scope of the EIA if requested. In essence, planning authorities must set out the key issues which should be addressed in the environmental statement. There is also a requirement now that if alternatives have been considered an outline of them must be provided in the environmental statement along with an indication of the reasons for the final choice.

SEDD Circular 15/99 and PAN 58

Circular 15/1999 explains the operation of the new Regulations. The Circular also has an Annex that indicates the scale of Schedule 2 projects where EIA is more likely to be required.

A Planning Advice Note (PAN) has also been produced. This draws on experience and research over the last eleven years to advise on best practice by providing information and advice on:

• the legislative background to EIA
• EIAs in Scotland;
• the process of EIA;
• environmental studies and statements;
• the evaluation of environmental information; and
• implementation through planning decisions.

Enquiries about EA should be addressed to
Neil Henderson
0131 244 7550 and at:

neil.henderson2@scotland.gov.uk

The full text can be found on the Scottish Executive website at:

www.scotland.gov.uk/planning

Circulars

Statements of Government Policy and policy guidance on implementation through legislative or procedural change

Circulars issued since the issue of Bulletin No.17 are detailed below.

Circular 15/1998

The Town and Country Planning (Notification of Applications) (Scotland) Amendment Direction 1998 Notification of Planning Applications
(October 1998)

Amends Circular 4/1997 with regard to retail development

Circular 17/1998

Tribunals and Inquiries Act 1992 - Planning and Compulsory Purchase Order - Inquiries and Hearings: Procedures and Good Practice supersedes Circulars 63/1976 and 13/1997
(October 1998)

Sets out Government policy for the operation of procedures before, during and after local inquiries and hearings held for the purpose of (a) determining any application referred, or any appeal made, to the Scottish Executive under the 1997 Planning Act(s), and (b) considering any objections made to certain Orders promoted by public bodies such as CPOs.

Circular 20/1998

The Town and Country Planning (Notification of Applications) (Scotland) Amendment (No.2) Direction 1998 Notification of Planning Applications (October 1998)

Amends Circular 4/1997 with regard to opencast coal and related minerals.

Circular 25/1998

Review of Old Mineral Permissions and Environmental Impact Assessment (November 1998)

Notes for Guidance - subsequent to the Wensley Quarries case (R v North Yorkshire County Council ex parte Brown and Cartwright), confirms the interim approach for the consideration of EIA in terms of revised condition applications under Schedules 8, 9 and 10 to the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997.

Circular 2/1999

The Town and Country Planning (Scotland) (Minerals) Regulations 1998 (January 1999)

Supersedes Circular 65/1971 - modifies certain aspects of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act as they apply to development consisting of the winning and working of minerals or involving the depositing of mineral waste.

Circular 3/1999

The Town and Country Planning (Compensation for Restrictions on Mineral Working and Mineral Waste Depositing) (Scotland) Regulations 1998 (January 1999)

Supersedes Circular 22/1987 - updates the compensation arrangements which apply when a planning authority revokes, modifies, suspends, prohibits or discontinues mineral working

Circular 4/1999

Planning Enforcement (March 1999)

Supersedes Circulars 8 & 36/1992 - sets out revised guidance on the powers available to planning authorities to enforce planning control.

Circular 9/1999

Indicative Forestry Strategies (April 1999)

Replaces and updates Circular 13/1990 in the light of the changes that have occurred since 1990 in the circumstances of the forestry industry and in the context within which further woodland expansion should now be seen.

Circular 10/1999

Planning and Noise (April 1999)

Supersedes Circular 23/1973 and sets out Government policy on the role of the planning system in controlling noise. Advice and best practice can be obtained from the accompanying Planning Advice Note (No 56) - Planning and Noise.

Circular 15/1999

The Environmental Impact Assessment (Scotland) Regulations 1999 (August 1999)

Supersedes Circulars 13 & 26/1988, 26/1994 and 25/1997 - circular 26/1991 is also amended - gives guidance on the Environmental Impact Assessment (Scotland) Regulations 1999 which implement the provisions of Council Directive No. 85/337/EC on the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment (the EIA Directive) as amended by Council Directive No. 97/11/EC

For copies of Circulars call David Love
0131 244 7066
Fax 0131 244 7083
and at:david.love@scotland.gov.uk

National Planning Policy Guidelines (NPPGs)

Statements of Government Policy on nationally important land use

NPPG 1 The Planning System (January 1994)

Contents: The Objectives of the Planning System. The Legislative Framework. The Policy Framework. Development Plans. Development Control. Development Contrary to Development Plans. Design.

Contact: Roger Kelly:
Tel. 0131 244 7526.

NPPG 2 Business and Industry (Revised November 1994)

Contents: Policy context. The Changing Scene. Policy Guidelines. Action Required. National Locational Guidelines. Planning Applications Likely to Raise a National Issue.

Contact: Nick Evans:
Tel. 0131 244 7552.

NPPG 3 Land for Housing (Revised November 1996)

Contents: Policy Context. Policy Guidelines. Action Required. Glossary.

Contact: Alan Denham:
Tel. 0131 244 7528.

NPPG 4 Land for Mineral Working (April 1994)

Contents: Policy Context. Policy Guidelines: General Principles. Locational Considerations. Operational Considerations. Additional Policy Guidelines for Individual Minerals. Action Required.

Contact: Brian Spiers:
Tel. 0131 244 7546.

NPPG 5 Archaeology and Planning (January 1994)

Contents: Policy Context. Background Information. Policy Guidelines. Action Required.

Contact: Ken Jobling:
Tel. 0131 244 7548.

NPPG 6 Renewable Energy (August 1994)

Contents: Policy Context. Policy Guidelines: General Principles. Locational Considerations. Additional Policy Guidelines for Individual Technologies. Action Required. Annexes on EC References and on Notification Arrangements.

Contact: Alan Denham:
Tel: 0131 244 7528.

NPPG 7 Planning and Flooding (September 1995)

Contents: Policy and Legislative Context. Background Information. Policy Guidelines. Acton Required. Annexes on Responsibilities for Dealing with Flood Hazard and Relevant Acts of Parliament with their Main Provisions.

Contact: Nick Evans:
Tel. 0131 244 7552.

NPPG 8 Town Centres and Retailing (Revised October 1998)

Contents: Policy Context. Policy Guidelines: General Principles. Policy Guidelines: Town Centres. Assessing New Developments. Supplementary Guidance for Particular Retail/Leisure Developments. Action Required.

Contact: Ken Jobling:
Tel. 0131 244 7548.

NPPG 9 The Provision of Roadside Facilities on Motorways and Other Trunk Roads in Scotland. (March 1996)

Contents: Policy Context. Policy Guidelines. Locational Considerations. Action Required.

Contact: Tom Williamson:
Tel. 0131 244 7531.

NPPG 10 Planning and Waste Management (March 1996)

Contents: Policy and Legislative Context. Background Information. Policy Guidelines: General Principles. Additional Guidelines for Specific Waste Management Options. Action Required. Annex on Restoration, Aftercare and after-Use of Landfill Sites.

Contact: Graham Marchbank:
Tel. 0131 244 7525.

NPPG 11 Sport, Physical Recreation and Open Space (June 1996)

Contents: Policy Context. Background Information. Policy Guidelines. Additional Guidelines for Particular Sports. Action Required. Annex on Sports Recognised by the Scottish Sports Council.

Contact: Nick Evans:
Tel. 0131 244 7552.

NPPG 12 Skiing Developments (June 1997)

Contents: Policy Context. Background - Skiing in Scotland. Guidelines for Skiing Developments. Area Guidelines. Action Required.

Contact: Alan Denham:
Tel. 0131 244 7528.

NPPG 13 Coastal Planning (August 1997)

Contents: The Coast. Policy Context. Planning for the Coast: General Approach. Policy Guidelines: General Principles. Additional Guidelines for Development which may Require a Coastal Location. Action Required. Non-Statutory Plans.

Contact: Jim Mackinnon:
Tel. 0131 244 7081.

NPPG 14 Natural Heritage (January 1999)

Contents: Policy Context. Scottish Natural Heritage. Natural Heritage and Land Use Planning. Statutory Designations. The Wider Natural Heritage. Action Required. Other Relevant Guidance and Advice.

Contact: Graeme Purves:
Tel. 0131 244 7533.

NPPG 15 Rural Development (February 1999)

Contents: Introduction: Rural Diversity and Current Issues and Approaches in Development Plans. Policy Context. Policy Guidelines. Action Required. Annex: Role of Key Agencies and The Scottish Office in Rural Development. European Funding Sources.

Contact: Tom Hardie:
Tel. 0131 244 7554.

NPPG 16 Opencast Coal and Related Minerals (March 1999)

Contents: Policy Context. Policy Guidelines: General Principles. Policy Guidelines: Operational Considerations. Safeguarding of Existing Communities and the Local Environment. Development Applications. Annex: The Coal Authority.

Contact: Brian Spiers:
Tel. 0131 244 7546.

NPPG 17 Transport and Planning (April 1999)

Contents: Policy Context. Policy Guidelines. Providing for Non-Motorised Travel. Providing for Public Transport. Managing Motorised Travel. Provision of Transport Infrastructure. Action Required.

Contact: Tom Williamson:
Tel. 0131 244 7531.

NPPG 18 Planning and the Historic Environment (April 1999)

Contents: The Historic Environment. Policy and Legislative Framework. Planning for the Historic Environment: General Policy Guidelines. Action Required.

Contact: David Leven:
Tel. 0131 244 7530.

Planning Advice Notes (PANs)

Advice on good planning practice

PAN 33 Development of Contaminated Land (April 1988)

Contents: Introduction. Planning Approach. Powers and Responsibilities. Building Control. Financial Assistance. Appendices: Existing Advice and Guidance and Identification of Potentially Contaminated Sites.

Contact: Nick Evans:
Tel. 0131 244 7552.

PAN 36 Siting and Design of New Housing in the Countryside (February 1991)

Contents: The Need for Advice. Role of Structure and Local Plans. Siting and Design of New Housing in the Countryside. Siting. Design. Conclusion.

Contact: Jim Mackinnon:
Tel. 0131 244 7081.

PAN 37 Structure Planning (Revised December 1996)

Contents: Purpose and Function of Structure Plans. Structure Plans and Sustainable Development. Structure Plans: Content. Structure Planning: The Process. Structure Planning: Documentation. Conclusion.

Contact: Roger Kelly:
Tel. 0131 244 7526.

PAN 38 Structure Plans: Housing Land Requirements (Revised November 1996)

Contents: Elements of the Process. The Participants. Plan Periods. Structure Plan Land Supply. Assessing Housing Land Requirements. Plan Requirement. Policy Response. Summary of Key Points. Annex: Land Supply Audit - Established and Effective Supply.

Contact: Tom Williamson:
Tel. 0131 244 7531.

PAN 39 Farm and Forestry Buildings (March 1993)

Contents: Trends in Agricultural Development. The Problems to be Addressed. Planning Control and Notification. The Role of Planning Authorities. Siting and Design Issues. Annexes: Existing Guidance and Advice Publications and Organisations Providing Information and Advice.

Contact: Ken Jobling:
Tel. 0131 244 7548.

PAN 40 Development Control (June 1993)

Contents: Background to the Advice. Role of this Advice to Promote Good Practice. Expectations from Development Control. Customer Care. An Informed Basis for Planning Decisions. Avoiding Delay. Monitoring Results. Responsibilities. Points of Procedure in Handling Applications. Value for Money. Annex A: Performance Indicators. Annex B: Eight Key Stages. Annex C: Building in Quality Recommendations.

Contact: Roger Kelly:
Tel. 0131 244 7526.

PAN 41 Development Plan Departures (Revised March 1997)

Contents: Background to Advice. Summary of Good Practice. Deciding What Constitutes a Departure. Giving Publicity to Departure Cases. Taking Account of Representations. Informing Respondents. Monitoring Departures and Altering Plans. Diagram of Good Practice for Applications Under DCDP Direction.

Contact: Roger Kelly:
Tel. 0131 244 7526.

PAN 42 Archaeology (January 1994)

Contents: The Importance of Archaeology. Archaeological Matters in the Planning Process. Legislative Arrangements: Scheduled Monuments.

Contact: Ken Jobling:
Tel. 0131 244 7548.

PAN 43 Golf Courses and Associated Developments (April 1994)

Contents: Background. Policy Framework. Golf Related Planning Issues. Golf Course Design. Development Planning.

Contact: Graham Marchbank:
Tel. 0131 244 7525.

PAN 44 Fitting New Housing Development into the Landscape (March 1994)

Contents: The Policy Framework. The Need for Advice on Landscape Fit. Action in Plans and Development Control. The Consultants' Manual.

Contact: Roger Kelly:
Tel. 0131 244 7526.

PAN 45 Renewable Energy Technologies (August 1994)

Contents: Purpose. Background. General Considerations.

Contact: Alan Denham:
Tel. 0131 244 7528.

PAN 46 Planning for Crime Prevention (October 1994)

Contents: Crime in Scotland. Planning and Crime: General Considerations. Liaison with the Police. Development Planning. Planning for Crime Prevention: General Principles, Existing Housing Estates, New Housing Development, Town Centres, Industrial Estates/Business Parks and Specific Issues.

Contact: Jim Mackinnon:
Tel. 0131 244 7547.

PAN 47 Community Councils and Planning (March 1996)

Contents: About Community Councils. Local Involvement and Agenda 21. Local Authority and Community Council Roles and Responsibilities. Checklists and Contacts.

Contact: Roger Kelly:
Tel. 0131 244 7526.

PAN 48 Planning Application Forms (May 1996)

Contents: Purpose. Background. General Principles. The Application Form. Certificates. Notification Notices. Planing Application Fees. Guidance for Applicants.

Contact: Jim Mackinnon:
Tel. 0131 244 7547.

PAN 49 Local Planning (May 1996)

Contents: The Role of Local Plans. Preparing Effective Local Plans. Keeping Plans Relevant and Up-to-Date. Setting Local Plans in Context. Taking Public Interests into Account. Dealing with the Main Issues. Managing the Plan Preparation Process.

Contact: Ken Jobling:
Tel: 0131 244 7548.

PAN 50 Controlling the Environmental Effects of Mineral Workings (October 1996)

Contents: Purpose. Scope. Environmental Issues. Proximity of Mineral Workings to Communities. Planning Conditions. Specific Environmental Effects.

Contact: Brian Spiers:
Tel. 0131 244 7546.

PAN 50 The Control of Noise at Surface Mineral Workings Annex A (October 1996)

Contents: Background. Aims of the Advice. Determination of Existing and Predicted Noise. Noise Limits. Noise Monitoring. Noise Abatement Controls. Statutory Considerations. Implementation and Review.

Contact: Brian Spiers:
Tel. 0131 244 7546.

PAN 50 The Control of Dust at Surface Mineral Workings Annex B (March 1998)

Contents: Background. Dust Assessment. Methods of Reducing and Controlling Dust. Site Management and Monitoring. Planning and other Environmental Controls. Conditions Attached to Planning Permissions. Development plans.

Contact: Brian Spiers:
Tel. 0131 244 7546.

PAN 50 The Control of Traffic at Surface Mineral Workings Annex C (December 1998)

Contents: Purpose. Background. Factors Affecting the Choice of Mode. The Regulatory Context. On-Site Traffic. Off-Site Traffic. Mitigation: Good Practice Measures. Development Plans. Implementation and Review.

Contact: Ben Train:
Tel. 0131 244 7532.

PAN 51 Planning and Environmental Protection (March 1997)

Contents: Background. Legislative Context. The Planning Framework. Annex: Environmental Protection Regimes.

Contact: Susan Whitty:
Tel. 0131 244 7551.

PAN 52 Planning in Small Towns (April 1997)

Contents: The Legacy. A Legacy under Pressure. General Approach. Development Plans. Specific Issues. Development Funding and Co-ordination. Small Towns Initiative.

Contact: Jim Mackinnon:
Tel. 0131 244 7081.

PAN 53 Classifying the Coast for Planning Purposes (October 1998)

Contents: Working Group. Classification. Indicators. Annex: Report from ASH Consulting Group.

Contact: Jim Mackinnon:
Tel. 0131 244 7547.

PAN 54 Planning Enforcement (March 1999)

Contents: Purpose. Legislative Background. Policy Context. Stating Planning Authority Enforcement Policy. Enforcement Concordat. Unauthorised Development. Enforcement Provisions. Prosecuting Planning Offences. Organisation.

Contact: George Lyall:
Tel. 0131 244 7530.

PAN 55 The Private Finance Initiative and the Planning Process (March 1999)

Contents: General Guidance. Local Authority Projects.Summary.

Contact: Graeme Purves:
Tel. 0131 244 7533.

PAN 56 Planning and Noise (April 1999)

Contents: General Principles. Noise Policies in Development plans. Considering Noise in Development Control. Mitigating Noise Impact. Noisy Development. Noise Sensitive Development. Designated Areas in the Countryside. Conditions Dealing with Noise. Enforcement. Environmental Assessment. Other Statutory Controls.

Contact: David Leven:
Tel. 0131 244 7148.

PAN 57 Transport and Planning (April 1999)

Contents: Policy Approach to Integrated Transport and Land Use Planning. Town Centres and Retailing. Providing for Non-Motorised Modes of Travel. Providing for Public Transport. Managing Motorised Travel. Provision of Transport Infrastructure. Development Control.

Contact: Tom Williamson:
Tel. 0131 244 7531

PAN 58 Environmental Impact Assessment (September 1999)

- introduction, legislative context, record of EIA in Scotland, EIA overview, environmental studies, the environmental statement, evaluation, other EIA regimes, conclusions, bibliography, glossary. Annexes on: Schedules 1 & 2 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations (Scotland) 1999, main EIA references in NPPGs and PANs, Index of Environmental Statements, Reviewing the contents of an Environmental Statement.

Contact: Neil Henderson:
Tel: 0131 244 7550

PAN 59 Improving Town Centre (October 1999)

Advice underlines Government committment to existing town and city centres. Advocates a partnership appraoch directed at developing attractions, increasing accessibility and improving amenity. Makes a wide range of suggestions, drawing on a number of examples of good practice.

Contact: Ken Jobling:
Tel: 0131 244 7548

A full list and summary of NPPGs and PANs are available on the Scottish Executive Website at:

www.scotland.gov.uk/planning

Quality Town Centres in Scotland

PAN 59 Improving Town Centres

A Planning Advice Note entitled 'Improving Town Centres' was launched last month.

This new advice underlines further the Government's commitment to existing town and city centres and the need to give them priority and support in the face of the pressure for new out-of-centre developments. Using examples of what has already been achieved in Scotland, it suggests ways in which town centres can be improved further to meet these and other challenges facing them.

The policy is about regenerating town centres; ensuring that everyone has access to a range of local shops and services. It therefore plays an important role in assisting the Scottish Executive's key objectives for social inclusion, promoting an urban renaissance, and more sustainable patterns of development, which are linked to integrated transport systems.

The Guideline recognises that the aim should be for lively, attractive and safe town centres, which serve the whole community and offer a wide range of shopping opportunities. To achieve this the PAN advocates a determined and co-ordinated effort by both the private and public sectors. A partnership approach to town centre development and management is considered essential.

The PAN stresses that town centres must provide an environment that meets the requirements of all users as well as investors and retailers. It indicates that this can only be achieved by taking action:

• to formulate practical and committed partnerships
• to understand how the centre is performing
• to prepare a widely accepted planning and strategic framework
• to develop effective town centre management
• to encourage development opportunities in the town centre
• to put funding mechanisms in place

Enquiries about the content of the PAN should be addressed to

Ken Jobling on
0131 244 7548 and at:
ken.jobling@scotland.gov.uk

SUMMARY

IMPROVING TOWN CENTRE
depends on:

Taking ACTION to

• develop Partnerships
• monitor Performance
• prepare a Strategic Framework
• undertake effective Town Centre Management
• encourage Development Opportunities in town centres
• put agreed and firm Funding mechanisms in place

with the aim of...

developing ATTRACTIONS, eg, by

• improving economic viability
• increasing the range and variety of shops and services
• encouraging housing provision
• developing quality open spaces
• safeguarding village (and rural) shops

increasing ACCESSIBILITY for all, eg by

• encouraging a range of transport options
• providing short stay parking
• allowing complementary edge-of centre developments
• providing for special needs groups
• using clear signpostings and information
• providing for the delivery of goods

improving AMENITY, eg, by

• making towns centres pedestrian friendly
• introducing high standards of management and maintenance
• encourage good design
• making town centres safe and secure

Development Plan Progress

Structure Plan Progress

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire
Approved Structure Plan: Grampian (July 1997)
New Structure Plan: Consultative Draft Spring 2000

Argyll and Bute
Approved Structure Plan: Strathclyde (October 1997)
New Structure Plan: Issue Paper January 2000, Consultative Draft November 2000, Submission 2001

Ayrshire
Approved Structure Plan: Strathclyde (October 1997)
New Structure Plan : Submitted March 1999. Draft modifications published September 1999. Approval early 2000

Dumfries and Galloway
Approved Structure Plan: Dumfries and Galloway (February 1984)
New Structure Plan: Submitted January 1999. Draft Modifications published September 1999. Approved December 1999

Dundee and Angus
Approved Structure Plan: Tayside (March 1997)
New Structure Plan: Consultative Draft Submission 2000-2001

Falkirk
Approved Structure Plan: Central (August 1992)
New Structure Plan: Consultative Draft early 2000.
Submission late 2000

Fife
Approved Structure Plan: Fife (January 1994)
New Structure Plan: Consultative Draft early 2000

Glasgow and Clyde Valley
Approved Structure Plan: Strathclyde (October 1997)
New Structure Plan: Consultation draft October 1999. Submission 2000

Highland
Approved Structure Plan: Highland Approved (November 1990)
New Structure Plan: Consultative Draft issued March 1999. Submission March 2000

Lothian
Approved Structure Plan: Lothian (July 1997)
Alteration to Retailing started March 1999

Moray
Approved Structre Plan: Moray (November 1999)
New Structure Plan : Submitted December 1998. Draft Modifications August 1999. Approved November 1999

Orkney
Approved Structure Plan: Orkney (September 1994)
New Structure Plan: Consultative Draft January 2000. Submission October 2000

Perth and Kinross
Approved Structure Plan: Tayside (March 1997) New Structure Plan: Consultative Draft 2000. Submission 2001

Scottish Borders
Approved Structure Plan: Borders (November 1993)
New Structure Plan: Consultative Draft December 1998

Shetland Islands
Approved Structure Plan: Shetland (February 1980)
New Structure Plan: Consultative Draft Spring 2000

Stirling and Clackmannan
Approved Structure Plan: Central (August 1992)
New Structure Plan: Consultative Draft May 1999. Submission 2000

Western Isles
Approved Structure Plan: Western Isles (December 1988)
New Structure Plan: Consultative Draft Autumn 2000. Submission December 2000

New Codes of Practice

Telecommunication Masts

Most readers will be aware of the considerable press coverage over recent weeks and months devoted to the matter of telecommunications masts. The subject has also generated a lot of Ministerial correspondence, and those who visit the Scottish Parliament's website will possibly have noticed a number of Parliamentary Questions on the matter. The level of interest in this subject is perhaps most vividly confirmed by the fact that the Transport and Environment Committee of the Scottish Parliament is presently conducting an inquiry into the Scottish Executive's proposals to introduce new planning procedures for telecommunications developments designed to address concerns about amenity.

The Scottish Executive's proposals are as follows:

• a 28 day prior approval procedure for the installation of certain telecommunications equipment housing and telecommunications masts/towers, other than ground based masts/towers;
• a 42 day prior approval procedure for all ground based telecommunications masts/towers, which requires public advertisement of the proposal and allows the public an opportunity to make representations;
• clarification that the alteration of a mast which takes the height of the whole structure above 15 metres will require planning consent.
• a reduction in the cubic capacity and height of telecommunications equipment housing to which permitted development rights apply, from the current 200 cubic metres and 4 metres, respectively, to 90 cubic metres and 3 metres;
• the restriction of permitted development rights for telecommunications operations in SSSIs, to the same extent as National Scenic Areas and Conservation Areas.
• the issue of a Scottish Code of Best Practice (probably as a Planning Advice Note) on Telecommunications development setting out guidance for planning authorities and the industry;
• the preparation of advice on the use of planning agreements to encourage mast sharing.

The Transport and Environment Committee have indicated that in the course of their inquiry they will be considering in particular:

• whether telecommunications developments should be subject to full planning control;
• what factors should be taken into account in informing policy on telecommunications developments (such as health, amenity and the precautionary principle); and
• what the published guidance from the Scottish Executive should contain (ie guidance to be taken into account by telecommunications operators and planning authorities in developing proposals and considering applications for telecommunications developments).

The Committee, in launching their inquiry, invited written evidence by 22 October. They have subsequently taken oral evidence on 3, 10 and 17 November and 1 December. The Committee's report is awaited.

Enquiries about the telecom mast Code of Practice should be addressed to
John Gunstone 0131 244 7710 and at:
john.gunstone@scotland.gov.uk

Speeding up Planning Procedures

In November the Planning Minister Sarah Boyack will announce the publication of a Code of Practice for Planning Appeals and Other Planning Cases Determined by Written Submissions.

The Code emphasises the importance of following the prescribed timetable and reinforces the need for all parties to co-operate to ensure that the written submissions procedure operates efficiently and effectively.

The main elements of the Code are:

• Fewer exchanges between parties;
• Time limits for Inquiry Reporters to determine cases;
• Tighter deadlines for submitting responses to other parties; and
• Powers to impose a date for site visits where parties fail to agree dates.

Enquiries about the planning procedures Code of Practice should be addressed to Anne Lillico 0131 244 7825 and at:

anne.lillico@scotland.gov.uk

Development Control

The Scottish Executive Planning Audit Unit

Development Control Performance

In October the second annual report of the Planning Audit Unit was published. It indicated that local authority development control performance is improving.

In 1996/97 61% of applications were decided within 2 months; in 1998/99 this had risen to 65%. In the same period the percentage of householder applications decided in 2 months increased from 79% to 82%. The report also records that the variation in performance between Councils is reducing. More authorities are now meeting the performance targets set by the Government while the number of authorities deciding less than 50% of applications in 2 months has halved.

In her foreword to the report, Planning Minister, Sarah Boyack, said:-

"I am pleased to see a general improvement in development control performance. In some Councils there have been large performance gains and I recognise the commitment this has required from managers, professional, technical and clerical staff working as a team. But variations between local authorities are still too great. For a variety of reasons, some Councils have been unable to make any real progress in the short term towards the Government's performance targets. However, I know that in some of them work is in hand to improve the service and I hope this will soon bear fruit."

Ms Boyack continued:-

"I would emphasise that I do not see efficiency as an alternative to improving standards of development on the ground. They are, in fact, dual goals. Providing a high quality service requires clear and transparent procedures, efficient working practices and ensuring that development adds to our quality of environment. We must look at the way planning works in the round as well as tackling the management of each aspect of the system."

In commending the report to local authorities Ms Boyack said that the work of the Planning Audit Unit showed how central and local government can work to good effect. Further examples of this joint working came in 2 reports published this month. One dealt with Performance Targets, the other on Conservation Controls. The findings/ recommendations of these reports, which have been issued for comment, are included as annexes to the report of the Planning Audit Unit.

Copies of the annual report and the 2 working group reports can be obtained from Lynn Jameson at Scottish Executive Development Department, Planning Services Division, 2-H, Victoria Quay, Edinburgh, EH6 6QQ (telephone 0131 244 7543). The reports are being placed on the Executive's Planning WebSite at: www.scotland.gov.uk/planning

Enquiries about the two Working Group reports should be addressed to
Jim Mackinnon 0131 244 7081 and at:

jim.mackinnon@scotland.gov.uk

Future of Planning

Land Use Planning under a Scottish Parliament

The consultation paper Land Use Planning under a Scottish Parliament was published in January 1999. The consultation period ran until 31 March 1999 and 128 responses were received. Copies of the responses, apart for 3 where confidentiality was requested, can be seen at the Scottish Executive Library, Saughton House, Broomhouse Drive, Edinburgh. A review of responses was published in October and a 99 page digest of responses is being placed on our web site.

The consultation paper set out 4 main assumptions about the way in which the planning system might evolve under the Scottish Parliament:-

• no substantial shift in responsibility between the national and local level
• improved co-ordination, through partnership, of the public and private sectors
• Scottish Executive and Scottish Parliament likely to have greatest interest in the strategic policy
• changes should maintain a fair, open and participative process offering the highest standards of integrity, probity, quality of service and Best Value.

These assumptions were generally accepted. There was a particularly strong emphasis on maintaining the principle of subsidiarity with planning to stay essentially a local authority responsibility. A common theme running through the responses was the need for the planning system to recognise the diversity of Scotland and local authorities from outwith the Central Belt stressed the importance of respecting the rural dimension to planning problems and issues.

Most respondents felt the planning system was fit for purpose. There were, however, pointed criticisms of delays in development plan preparation and development control, the inability of Councils to keep plans up-to-date, mediocrity of development, failure of planning to be positive and proactive and generally poor links to other initiatives and policies, notably transport.

A recurring message from the private sector was that the problem was not with the system but the lack of local authority commitment to operating it. As a result they felt that, to make the system more efficient and effective, the immediate emphasis should be on better management. A number of respondents asked to see "sustainable development" enshrined in law but many pointed out this term would be very difficult to define and its inclusion in legislation would, therefore, be impractical.

On National Planning Policy Guidelines (NPPGs) the responses echoed many of the findings of the recent research on this subject. Widespread support for the NPPG series exists but many felt that the policy content of the guidance should be more explicit and the importance of making the process of Guideline preparation more transparent was a feature of many responses.

Consolidation of NPPGs with the document was widely opposed as was prescribing NPPGs in legislation; however, a number of respondents sought clarification of the status of NPPGs in relation to planning applications and appeals. There were mixed views on strengthening the locational component of Guidelines. Some argued that the NPPGs should be concerned with general principles, others accepting that there should be a degree of central direction if there is a clear national interest involved.

There was strong support for the principle of strategic planning but very mixed views on how it might best be delivered. Opinions varied from retaining the present system of structure plans, through various forms of sub-national guidance to a national framework or overview. There were also different opinions on how plans above the level of individual Councils should be prepared.

A range of opinions was also expressed on the extension of planning controls to agriculture and forestry and extending the right of appeal to third parties.

An issue on which there was a high degree of consensus was extending the work of the Planning Audit Unit to development planning. There were also calls for the Unit to distil and disseminate best practice on development control.

Enquiries about the consultation paper should be addressed to Roger Kelly or John Gunstone 0131 244 7526/7710
and at:
roger.kelly@scotland.gov.uk
john.gunstone@scotland.gov.uk

Research

Completed

Research on 'One Stop Shop' Arrangements for Development Related Local Authority Functions

Contact - Roger Kelly
Contractor - Centre for Planning Research, University of Dundee

Research to explore 'one stop shop' arrangements that Scottish councils are introducing for intending developers in respect of planning and development, and to provide practical advice and assistance to authorities as they develop and implement proposals to bring together control services in a comprehensive way.

Experience of Community Councils as Statutory Consultees

Contact - Roger Kelly
Contractor - MVA

To consider the contribution made by community councils since being accorded the status of statutory consultees on planning appeals. The research will provide good practice advice on involving community councils. The Report has been finalised.

Brownfield/Greenfield Land

Contact - Nick Evans
Contractor - GVA Grimley

To advise on a system for monitoring the use of Brownfield and Greenfield Land. Stage 1 report submitted in August. Under consideration.

Costs in the Planning Service

Contact - Roger Kelly
Contractor - Paula Gilder Consulting

To examine the experience of a range of local authorities . To identify costs of aspects of the planning service with a view to setting up an information system to enable regular and straightforward monitoring of costs for annual financial returns to the Scottish Executive. The report was submitted in August and published in November 1999.

The Role of Pre-Application Discussions and Guidance in Planning

Contact - Roger Kelly
Contractor - Customer Management Consulting

To examine the role of pre-application discussions and guidance in development control and to explore the experiences of planning authorities, service users and statutory consultees. Report finalised.

Establishment of an NPPG Index

Contact - Alan Denham
Contractor - The Planning Exchange

To set up a paper and electronic index to cover the 13 published NPPGs. The work was completed in September 1999.

Information Technology in Scottish Planning Authorities

Contact - Roger Kelly
Contractor - The Planning Exchange

To explore the use which Scottish planning authorities make of Information Technology. The work will be completed in 1999.

Underway

Compulsory Purchase Orders

Contact - Elizabeth Baird
Contractor - Montagu Evans

To establish how the CPO system operates in Scotland and to identify ways of improving its operation. The work will be completed in 1999.

Advertising Planning Proposals
Contact - David Leven Contractor - James Barr Consultants

To evaluate the requirement for local authorities to advertise listed building applications and other developments and to make recommendations for appropriate changes in regulations. The work will be completed in 1999.

Integrated Policy Approach to Transport and Landuse Planning Aspects of Development Applications

Contact - Tom Hardie
Contractor - Oscar Faber

Research building upon the policy framework set out in NPPG 17 for the integration of transport and land use planning. It aims to review current standards and thresholds (part 1) and achieve operational requirements for proposals (part 2) on key travel generating uses to support more sustainable travel patters. This will include the possible use of maximum parking standard, thresholds for Transport Assessments and Green Transport Plans. This work will be completed in December 1999.

Proposed

Recycled Aggregates in Scotland

Contact - Brian Spiers
Contractor - TRL in association with ERM

To provide baseline information on the extent to which recycled minerals are an alternative for primary aggregates, a broad indication of the uses to which recycled minerals are directed and to provide for a regular survey to enable regular monitoring of recycled minerals.

Scottish Planning Awards

Nominations for the 1999 Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning were submitted at the end of October.

Launching this year's awards scheme, Scottish Planning Minister Sarah Boyack said:

"High quality planning services make a big difference to the areas where we live, work or relax, and should be recognised for the contribution they make to our quality of life. The Scottish Executive is keen to see that quality in planning is encouraged and recognised."

The Awards are presented by the Scottish Executive in association with the Royal Town Planning Institute in Scotland. This is the third year of the Awards. In the first year 17 nominations were submitted and seven received certificates. The 1998 Awards attracted 37 entries from across Scotland, 14 of which received certificates from the then Minister, Calum Macdonald at a ceremony in Edinburgh. Sarah Boyack will present the 1999 Awards on 17 February next year.

Outstanding work by planning authorities is the prime target, but work by other bodies such as consultants, community organisations and national agencies has not been excluded. The Awards will be assessed by three independent judges and will cover three categories:

'Outstanding performance and quality in development control or an aspect of the service;

'Outstanding performance and quality in development plans or an aspect of planmaking practice. In this category the judges will differentiate between work directly associated with statutory development plans and other planning-related quality initiatives (for example on biodiversity action or land management). Both types of work will be eligible for award;'

Outstanding quality in development on the ground which is significantly attributable to the planning service. This may include a wide variety of outcomes (for example outstanding results of regeneration work or co-ordinated improvements in public spaces).

The judges will recommend nominations for award in each category and will be free to recommend an overall winner from across all the categories if they wish.

In assessing previous nominations, judges have looked for evidence of outstanding quality. They have also picked out nominations which show an appreciation of sustainable development issues, community and user involvement, consumer testing, a significant contribution by the planning service, innovation, wider benefits, and difficult issues tackled and resolved. Details of previous nominations and judges' assessments can be found on the internet at the Scottish Executive website.

The Planning Awards homepage address:
www.scotland.gov.uk/planning/award/index.htm

visit our website www.scotland.gov.uk/planning

Scottish Executive Planning Helpline
0345 741741

THE PLANNING BULLETIN SUPPLEMENT
DEVELOPMENT PLAN PROGRESS

December 1999

Commentary on Local Plan coverage

In Scotland there are currently 209 adopted local plans. Local plans are gradually being replaced and consolidated, and this process will reduce to 91 the plans required to cover Scotland. Of these 91 plans, 50 have been adopted in the last 5 years, and these cover roughly 45% of Scotland's population.

The new and replacement local plans coming forward are at the following stages:

The Planning Bulletin is designed and produced by Planning Services Division of the Scottish Executive Development Department and edited by Andrew Walters, Area 2H, Victoria Quay, EDINBURGH, EH3 6QQ. andrew.walters@scotland.gov.uk

Further copies are available from Lynn Jameson, 0131 244 7543. lynn.jameson@scotland.gov.uk

The Planning Bulletin is designed and produced by Planning Services Division of the Scottish Executive Development Department and edited by Andrew Walters, Area 2H, Victoria Quay, EDINBURGH, EH6 6QQ.

Further copies are available from
Lynn Jameson 0131 244 7543.