| Foreword |
 |
The essential role of the
planning system is to regulate and control the development and use of land in the public
interest. While there is general acceptance of the need for some such system to reconcile
the conflicting interests of development and conservation, it is perhaps not surprising
that from time to time it is exposed to criticism not so much about the fundamentals of
the system, but about the way the system is being operated. The recently launched Competitiveness White Paper reiterates concerns about
the slowness and the negative nature of the system, which is seen as getting in the way of
business competitiveness. Others criticise planning for not putting the environment at the
heart of its policies to safeguard communities from harmful developments. |
| I believe the Government and
planning authorities must constantly listen to the feedback from those who use the system
as well as those who are affected by its decisions and consider whether things might be
done differently. There is no room for complacency and that is why this Government has
been actively pursuing a range of measures to modernise all aspects of the planning system
so that it is fit to meet the many difficult decisions that lie ahead. |
|
| A key part of modernising the
system is to update and to streamline procedures, wherever possible. But of equal, if not
greater importance, is how we can sharpen up the management of the planning process so
allowing sound decisions to be taken promptly. The broad aim is to promote sustainable
development, which maintains and enhances the quality of life and of the environment. |
|
| This consultation paper refers to
this modernising agenda. However, its main purpose is to open up debate, for the first
time in a long time, about the relevance and shape of the key mechanisms of the planning
system and whether they need to be adapted at the margin, or more fundamentally, having
regard to society’s needs and the search for Best Value in the delivery of the
planning service. |
|
| I have no doubt the views
expressed on this paper will be of considerable interest to the Scottish Executive and the
Parliament as they proceed to set a new agenda for planning for the next century. |
|
 |
|
| Calum MacDonald MP |
| Minister with responsibility for
Planning |
|
