Scottish Government

The Planning Bulletin: December 2000

Issue No 19

Planning Bulletin Issue 19 also available in PDF format [2354kb]

Planning Bulletin Issue 19 Supplement also available in PDF format [460kb]

Strategic Planning Feedback form available in PDF format [52kb]

Foreword

The past few months has seen significant changes in personnel within the Executive at ministerial and official level.

In October, Sam Galbraith was appointed Minister for Environment, Sport and Culture. This portfolio includes the land use planning system.

On 1 November Alastair Mackenzie retired as Chief Planner. His replacement is Jim Mackinnon who, for the previous 12 months, was Head of Planning Division. Maureen McGinn has taken over Jim's former responsibilities.

The Bulletin contains a summary of Sam Galbraith's Keynote Address to the Annual Conference of the Royal Town Planning Institute in Scotland. The speech reviewed progress on the commitments given last November as well as outlining pressures which had arisen to introduce revised controls over telecommunication developments and the impact of the European Convention on Human Rights on the planning system. The Minister then went on to outline the Executive's priorities for the planning system - review of strategic planning, raising design standards and more effective public involvement in planning.

The Bulletin provides an update on the work of the Transport and the Environment Committee, an up-to-date list of current National Planning Policy Guidelines and Planning Advice Notes, details of Circulars, review of research and information on this year's Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning.

In addition the Bulletin contains features on telecommunications, the spatial perspective for the North Sea Region (NorVision), Planning Advice Note 60 Natural Heritage and a summary of the first results from the Retail Development Survey.

An electronic version of the Bulletin and further details on the subjects covered in this issue can be found on our WebSite at: www.scotland.gov.uk/planning

Sam Galbraith MSP
Minister for Environment, Sport and Culture

Addressing the Annual Conference of the Scottish Branch of the Royal Town Planning Institute on 24 November the new Planning Minister, Sam Galbraith, took the opportunity to look back at progress on the commitments given by Sarah Boyack last November.

These were:-

• Executive has no plans at present to introduce statutory timetables for development planning.
• Target time for taking decisions on structure plans reduced from 52 to 40 weeks.
• Three pilot audits on development planning in Dundee, Angus and Dumfries and Galloway - 3 more for next year, looking at development planning and development control in Falkirk, North Ayrshire and Perth & Kinross.
• Easy Read Guide to the Planning System produced - this was awarded a Crystal Mark from the Plain English Campaign.
• Training framework for Councillors produced in association with CoSLA, RTPI and SSDP.
• Work with CoSLA on advice for councillors on conduct in relation to planning issues.
• NPPG1: The Planning System published.

The Minister drew attention to two other issues which had dominated the Executive's work programme in planning during 2000. The first was telecommunications which is reported elsewhere in the Bulletin. The other was the impact of the European Convention on Human Rights.

The Minister outlined future priorities for planning. He indicated that he was firmly committed to retaining the NPPG series and, in addition to producing revised guidance on telecommunications, priority would be given in 2001 to revising the NPPGs on Business and Industry and Land for Housing.

The Minister indicated that the structure plan areas do not reflect the current geographic realities and the Executive intends to publish its own proposals on the future arrangements for strategic planning (further details on page 7).

The Minister emphasised his personal commitment to improving the quality of development in urban and rural Scotland. He recognised that this was a complex issue but he was determined to see the standard of development raised.

Finally the Minister indicated that he wants to see more effective public involvement in planning and a consultation paper will be issued next year. This will build on recent research and reflect key issues in the Executive's wider policy agenda such as Social Justice, Equality, 21 st Century Government and Best Value.

Full details of the Minister's speech can be found on the planning websitewww.scotland.gov.uk/library3/planning/rtpi_speech.asp

Planning and Radio Telecommunications

Since the last Planning Bulletin the Transport and Environment Committee has reported on its inquiry into the Executive's proposals to introduce new planning procedures for telecommunications developments. The Committee published its report on 29 March 2000 and made 35 recommendations including that telecommunications development should be subject to full planning control.

In parallel with the Committee's inquiry, the Independent Expert Group on Mobile Phones, Chaired by Sir William Stewart conducted an inquiry which considered the health effects from the use of mobile phones, base stations and transmitters, based on existing research. Their report, known as the Stewart Report, was published on 11 May 2000 and is available at www.iegmp.org.uk.

The development of the Executive's policy on Radio Telecommunications has been aided by these inquiries, the debate in the Scottish Parliament held on 11 May 2000 and the Planning and Telecommunications Summit held by the Minister on 11 September 2000. Further invaluable assistance has been provided by the Planning and Telecommunications Working Group, which includes representatives of the Federation of the Electronics Industry, mobile and fixed radio access operators, CoSLA, planning authorities, and the Royal Town Planning Institute.

A consultation package was issued on 24 November 2000 which includes the draft amendment to the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (Scotland) Order increasing control over radio telecommunications development and the draft National Planning Policy Guideline on Radio Telecommunications.

The draft NPPG sets out the Executive's policy that further expansion of radio telecommunication infrastructure should be developed in a way which continues to provide Scotland with world class telecommunications services, while at the same time minimising the environmental impact of new, upgraded or replacement apparatus. The aim is that the apparatus should become an accepted and unobtrusive feature of urban and rural areas. Concerning health issues associated with radio telecommunication, the draft NPPG explains how the Government is responding to the Report of the Independent Export Groups on Mobile Phones. It summarises the precautionary approach which has been accepted by the Government and discusses the weight to be accorded to health considerations in the determination of planning applications.

Mast located within a group of trees and painted dark green

The main changes proposed in the draft amendment to the GPDO are that:-

• All new ground based masts and associated development should be subject to full planning control.
• Certain new installations of telecommunications apparatus on buildings will be subject to full planning control.
• All new installations of telecommunications apparatus in national scenic areas, national parks, conservation areas, historic gardens or designed landscapes, sites of special scientific interest or European sites will be subject to full planning control.
• Certain alterations to existing masts will be subject to full planning control.

The full consultation package can be viewed at www.scotland.gov.uk/planning. Views on the consultation package are sought by Friday 16 th February 2001. These should be e-mailed to: telecommunications@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

An accompanying Planning Advice Note Planning on Radio Telecommunications is being prepared. It will be published with the finalised NPPG and will provide advice on siting and design and background information on the telecommunications systems being developed. We are keen to hear of any examples of good practice regarding the installation of telecommunications apparatus, these should be e-mailed to: ben.train@scotland.gsi.gov.uk.

Standard mobile and fixed linked masts and antenna.

Antennas painted to match the stonework.

NPPG 1: The Planning System

The Minister's address to the RTPI conference on 24 th November was marked by the launch of revised NPPG1: The Planning System. NPPG1 has been revised in response to constitutional changes and developments in legislation and policy since publication in 1994.

The NPPG sets out the purpose and objectives of the planning system in Scotland, and the contribution it can make to achieve the wider objectives of the Scottish Executive, including sustainable development, economic competitiveness, social justice and integrated transport. It updates the guidance on development plans and development control and covers the Executive's expectations for quality in the planning service in terms of accountability, co-ordination and performance.

As the first of a series of reviews of national planning policy guidelines, the revision of NPPG1 has responded to demands for greater transparency in production. The revision was informed by a Task Group set up to represent a range of interests in the public, private and voluntary sectors as well as professional organisations. The Task Group contributed to the preparation of the consultation draft issued in July and considered the views put forward by respondents.

The revised NPPG1 is accompanied by an overview of comments on the draft version, and a comprehensive digest of the consultation responses has also been made available on the planning website: www.scotland.gov.uk/planning.

NPPG 6:Renewable EnergySystem

Encouraging more electricity generation from renewable sources is an important element of both the UK and Scottish Climate Change Programmes.

NPPG 6 (Revised 2000) : Renewable Energy Developments was issued on the 30 th November 2000 and is intended to support an increase in renewable energy development in Scotland. It establishes the important role planning can play in promoting renewable energy, through both development planning and development control. The NPPG, the "Overview of Responses to Consultation" and a "Digest of Comments Received" are available on the Planning Home Page website at www.scotland.gov.uk/planning.

The Scottish Executive have also published a consultation paper on the new Renewables Obligation (Scotland), the "ROS". The aim of the consultation is to gather views on the mechanics of the ROS, in order to enable the Executive to implement its policy on renewable energy as effectively as possible. A copy of the consultation paper is available on the Scottish Executive website at www.scotland.gov.uk/who/elld. The consultation period ends on Friday9 th February 2001

Strategic Planning

Addressing the Annual Conference of the Scottish Branch of the Royal Town Planning Institute on 24 November the new Planning Minister, Sam Galbraith outlined three options for the future arrangements of strategic planning:-

• Revised current structure plan areas.
• Larger scale planning areas.
• National planning framework.

The Minister confirmed that the status quo was not an option but proposals have to be fully worked up and address a range of issues surrounding plan content, preparation and approval.

He also confirmed that he was not proposing a review of the value of strategic planning which he saw as a key means of delivering sustainable development. Nor was he looking to see further layers of planning created or additional plans produced. He indicated that he was "looking for a system that provides clarity of strategic direction and brings with it a commitment to act".

Executive officials will be arranging discussions/seminars/workshops with those with an interest in future strategic planning arrangements. A feedback form on the subject has been placed on the Planning Home Page of the Scottish Executive WebSite. Download Strategic Planning Feedback Form PDF file (52k) . The outcome of this review and the Executive's proposals will be published in summer 2001.

Public Involvement in the Planning System

Securing effective public involvement in the planning system is of key importance. The Minister for Environment, Sport and Culture, Sam Galbraith recently announced that this issue would feature in a Scottish Executive consultation next year. Among the issues to be examined are the way in which planning proposals are notified to neighbours and to the wider community, and how to ensure public involvement in the development plan process.

The review will also consider whether current arrangements for gaining access to planning information are appropriate and in what ways the planning service can be made more responsive to people's needs. An important aspect will be to consider how information technology can be used to make public involvement in the planning system more effective and inclusive by considering best practice and the scope for improvement.

The work will draw on recent research projects on Advertising Planning Proposals, Access to Planning Information and One Stop-Shops. The review will present an opportunity to seek comments on issues highlighted in these research projects and to consult on specific proposals for neighbour notification. The review will reflect key issues in the Executive's wider policy agenda such as Social Justice, Equality, 21 st Century Government and Best Value. This new look at public involvement in planning is likely to be of considerable interest to the public generally and community groups in particular, as well as local authorities and the development industry.

Cupar One-Stop Shop.

Transport and the Environment Committee

The Transport and the Environment Committee is the Parliamentary Committee charged with considering the land-use planning system and other planning issues. In addition, its wide ranging remit also includes transport, the environment, natural heritage, sustainable development, and strategic environmental assessment.

During the last year, a major inquiry was undertaken by the Committee into telecommunication developments, and, in particular, the siting of mobile phone masts. A report published by the Committee in March 2000 recommended full planning control for telecommunications developments. The whole Scottish Parliament debated the Committee's report on 11 May 2000, and the Scottish Executive subsequently proposed that all new ground-based mobile phone masts should be subject to full planning control. The Committee is currently considering a detailed consultation document issued by the Scottish Executive on the 24 th November 2000.

The Committee has encountered individuals' views on the planning system when considering public petitions referred to the Committee, and has been keen to address the wider issues arising from individuals' concerns, but also recognises that the Committee should not normally comment on individual planning decisions.

Scottish Parliament, The Mound.

Turning to other work this year, the Committee has considered two bills - the National Parks (Scotland) Bill and the Transport (Scotland) Bill. In addition, the Committee will shortly be publishing a report on Genetically Modified Organisms, after evidence-taking sessions in September.

Looking to the future, the Committee has just begun an inquiry into the water industry in Scotland. The Committee also has an interest in renewable energy and expects to consider the Scottish Executive's water services bill when it is introduced next year. The Committee hopes to build on its successful work of the last year in the months ahead.

For further details on the Transport & Environment Committee contact: Shelagh McKinlay, Clerk to T&E Cttee 0131 348 5208 e.mail: shelagh.mckinlay@scottish.parliament.uk

A Spatial Perspective for the North Sea Region

NorVision - A Spatial Perspective for the North Sea Region is an advisory report on spatial planning for the council areas 1 which border the North Sea in Scotland, England, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Germany and the Netherlands. The North Sea Region (NSR) is 1 of 7 regions defined by the EU to foster co-operation in spatial planning. The Spatial Perspective, also called a Vision, seeks to demonstrate how the principles set out in the European Spatial Development Perspective (ESDP) can be applied. It was prepared by a working group of national and local planners and funded through the European Commission initiative INTERREG IIC which aims to promote transnational co-operation in spatial planning.

The Perspective has its origins in the INTERREG IIC North Sea Region Operational Programme which committed the participating countries to preparing:

"a joint long term vision for the development of the spatial structure and use of the territory in the N S R that can lead to a more balanced territorial development".

A North Sea Region? - The NSR is not a geographic or economic region in the conventional sense (though it is one of the more cohesive of the 7 INTERREG regions) and the vision is therefore not expressed geographically as a map.

Instead, it is expressed as 10 vision statements, each of which is elaborated by aims, and then broken down to strategies for implementation, with examples of projects included in an annex. The Working Group hopes that the perspective will influence planning in each country as well as providing a reference point for projects submitted under the forthcoming Interreg III programme.

Implications? The vision gives planners a wide perspective on common NSR issues. These may be relevant to the preparation of land use and sectoral plans, and other planning work, at any scale. By its consideration of issues at this broader scale the Vision may lead to fresh thinking about spatial issues and relationships. The Vision lays the foundation for better understanding and further co-operation on spatial planning matters around the North Sea. Its strength lies perhaps more in the fact that it identifies issues of common concern and a shared vision for their future (albeit expressed in very general terms) than in any ground breaking new ideas.

The Working Group issued a draft report in January 2000 to CoSLA, local authorities, other agencies and planning schools, and took the comments into account in the final report.

The perspective is not part of the statutory planning system. Unlike the ESDP it has not been agreed by Ministers and does not necessarily represent the views of the Scottish Executive.

Copies of the Perspective have been sent to each council. For further copies, and any enquiries on NorVision, contact Nick Evans on 0131 244 7552

e-mail:nick.evans@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

1 Scottish Local Authorities in the North Sea Region:-Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, Angus, Clackmannanshire, East Lothian, Dundee City, City of Edinburgh, Falkirk, Fife, Highland, Midlothian, Moray, Orkney, Perth and Kinross, Scottish Borders, Shetland, Stirling, West Lothian.

National Planning Policy Guidelines (NPPGs)

Statements of Scottish Executive Policy on nationally important land use

NPPG 1 The Planning System (Revised November 2000)

Contents: The Purpose of the Planning System. The Planning System and the wider objectives of the Scottish Executive. European Dimension. Development Plans. Development Control. The Planning Service.

Contact: Roger Kelly: Tel. 0131 244 7526. email: roger.kelly@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

NPPG 2 Business and Industry (November 1994)

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

Contact: Ken Jobling: Tel. 0131 244 7548.email: ken.jobling@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

NPPG 3 Land for Housing (Revised November 1996)

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

Contact: Alan Denham: Tel. 0131 244 7528.email: alan.denham@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: brian.spiers@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

NPPG 5 Archaeology and Planning (January 1994)

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

Contact: David Leven: Tel. 0131 244 7530.email: david.leven@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

NPPG 6 Renewable Energy (Revised November 2000)

Contents: Policy Context. Policy Guidelines. Locational Considerations. EIA. Tourism and Recreation. Proximity to Settlements. Wind. Hydro. Biomass. Energy from Waste. Wave. Offshore Developments.

Contact: Brian Spiers: Tel: 0131 244 7546.email: brian.spiers@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: nick.evans@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: ken.jobling@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: tom.williamson@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

NPPG 10 Planning and Waste Management (March 1996)

Contents: Policy and LegislativeContext. 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.email: graham.marchbank@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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: Tom Hardie: Tel. 0131 244 7554.email: tom.hardie@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: alan.denham@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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: Ian Duncan: Tel. 0131 244 7547.email: ian.duncan@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: graeme.purves@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: tom.hardie@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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 LocalEnvironment. DevelopmentApplications. Annex: The Coal Authority.

Contact: Brian Spiers: Tel. 0131 244 7546.email: brian.spiers@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: tom.williamson@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

NPPG 18 Planning and the Historic Environment (April 1999)

Contents:TheHistoric Environment.Policyand Legislative Framework. Planning for the Historic Environment: General Policy Guidelines. Action Required.

Contact: David Leven: Tel. 0131 244 7530.email: david.leven@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

NPPG 19 (Draft) Radio Telecommunications (November 2000)

Contents: Policy and Legislative Context. Government Policy and Regulation of the Industry. Growth in Telecommunications. Health (the precautionary approach). Siting and Design. Camouflage. Rural areas. Site Sharing. Planning Applications and Development Control. Notifications. Glossary.

Contact: Nick Evans Tel:0131 244 7552 email: nick.evans@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

Planning Advice Notes (PANs)

Advice on good planning practice

PAN 33 Development of Contaminated Land (Revised October 2000)

Contents: Background and Legislative Context. Defining Contaminated Land. Scottish Executive Approach. Role of the Planning System and Part IIA Contaminated Land Regime. Remediation of Contaminated Land. Financial Assistance. Issues Checklist.

Contact: Graham Jones: Tel. 0131 244 7550.email: graham.jones@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.

Contact: Ian Duncan: Tel. 0131 244 7547.email: ian.duncan@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.

Contact: Roger Kelly: Tel. 0131 244 7526.email: roger.kelly@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: tom.williamson@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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 Publicationsand Organisations Providing Information and Advice.

Contact: Ben Train: Tel. 0131 244 7532.email: ben.train@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

PAN 40 Development Control (June 1993, currently under revision)

Contents: Background to the Advice. Role of this Advice to Promote Good Practice. Expectationsfrom DevelopmentControl. 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.email: roger.kelly@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: roger.kelly@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

PAN 42 Archaeology (January 1994)

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

Contact: David Leven: Tel. 0131 244 7530.email: david.leven@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: graham.marchbank@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: roger.kelly@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

PAN 45 Renewable Energy Technologies (August 1994, currently under revision)

Contents: Purpose. Background. General Considerations.

Contact: Brian Spiers: Tel. 0131 244 7546.email: brian.spiers@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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 0770.email: jim.mackinnon@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: roger.kelly@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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: Roger Kelly: Tel. 0131 244 7526.email: roger.kelly@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: ken.jobling@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: brian.spiers@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: brian.spiers@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: brian.spiers@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: ben.train@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

PAN 50 The Control of Blasting at Surface Mineral Working Annex D

Contents: The Need to Blast. Ground Vibration. Air Overpressure. Noise. Dust. Flyrock. Limitations of Blasting. Conditions. Complaints Procedures. Environmental Impact Assessment. Development Plans. Implementation and Review. Summary: good practice on blasting.

Contact: Ben Train: Tel. 0131 244 7532.email: ben.train@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: susan.whitty@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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 0770.email: jim.mackinnon@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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

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

Contact: Ian Duncan: Tel. 0131 244 7547.email: ian.duncan@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

PAN 54 Planning Enforcement (March 1999)

Contents: Purpose. Legislative Background. Policy Context. Stating Planning Authority EnforcementPolicy. EnforcementConcordat. Unauthorised Development. EnforcementProvisions. Prosecuting Planning Offences. Organisation.

Contact: George Lyall: Tel. 0131 244 7549.email: george.lyall@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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

Contents: General Guidance. LocalAuthority Projects.Summary.

Contact: Graeme Purves: Tel. 0131 244 7533.email: graeme.purves@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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 DealingwithNoise. Enforcement. Environmental Assessment. Other Statutory Controls.

Contact: David Leven: Tel. 0131 244 7530.email: david.leven@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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.email: tom.williamson@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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: Nick Evans: Tel: 0131 244 7552.email: nick.evans@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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 7548email: ken.jobling@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

PAN 60 Planning for Natural Heritage (August 2000)

The treatment of natural heritage in development plans and supplementary policy guidance. The roles of Landscape Character Assessment and Biodiversity Action Plans in informing the planning process. Local designations and greenspace. Opportunities to enhance natural heritage through the development process.

Contact: Graeme Purves Tel: 0131 244 7533 e-mail: graeme.purves@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

A full list and summary of NPPGs and PANs are available on the Scottish Executive Website at: www.scotland.gov.uk/planning

Circulars

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

Circulars issued since November 1998 are detailed below.

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 guidanceonthe EnvironmentalImpact 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

Circular 1/2000

Code of Practice for Planning Appeals and Other Planning Cases Determined by Written Submissions

Sets out a Code of Practice for the operation of procedures, by means of written submissions and site inspections for determining planning appeals; applications for planning permission and listed building consents which have been called-in for determination by the Scottish Ministers and to appeals against refusal of listed building consent.

Circular 4/2000

The Town and Country Planning (Fees for Applications and Deemed Applications) (Scotland Amendment Regulations 2000 (May 2000)

Amends Circular 1/1997 - sets out revised Sclae of Fees for planning applications made on or after 01 June 2000.

For copies of Circulars contact David Love: Tel: 0131 244 7066 Fax: 0131 244 7083 or email: david.love@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

PAN 60: Planning for Natural Heritage

Quality Environments for People and Wildlife

A Planning Advice Note entitled 'Planning for Natural Heritage' was published in August.

The PAN provides advice on how development and the planning system can contribute to the conservation, enhancement, enjoyment and understanding of natural heritage and is illustrated by case studies drawn from across Scotland. It emphasises that development and land use planning offer many opportunities to enhance landscape and biodiversity and improve the quality of life in urban and rural areas. It also encourages developers and planning authorities to be positive and creative in addressing natural heritage issues.

The document outlines the national framework of policies and initiatives for positive action in relation to Scotland's natural heritage and provides advice on the treatment of natural heritage in development plans and supplementary guidance. It also provides advice on local designations and encourages a strategic approach to greenspace.

The advice note indicates that Landscape Character Assessment and Biodiversity Action Plans have valuable roles to play in informing the planning process. It also highlights the role of the planning system in securing development which complements the natural environment and works with the grain of natural processes; and it draws attention to the opportunities to enhance landscapes and biodiversity offered by land renewal and mineral restoration schemes.

role to play in safeguarding landscape and wildlife, development and land use planning also offer many opportunities to further enhance Scotland's natural heritage and create high quality

Birnie Loch - sand and gravel workings restored to provide a range of wetland habitats

Edinburgh Park - a modern business development providing a high quality environment for people and wildlife

Summary

While the planning system has a key role to play in safeguarding landscape and wildlife, development and land use planning also offer many opportunities to further enhance Scotland's natural heritage and create high quality environments for living and working. Planning can help to secure development which complements the natural environment and works with the grain of natural processes. A robust and effective planning policy framework for natural heritage depends upon:

• well focused and up-to-date development plans;
• partnership and community participation;
• a good understanding of the natural heritage resource;
• clear objectives and targets in relation to landscape, biodiversity and earth heritage; and
• a commitment to monitoring and review.

Landscape Character Assessment, Biodiversity Action Plans and local biological record centres have valuable roles to play in informing the planning process.

Networks of quality greenspace are an effective means of providing:

• a strategic landscape framework for urban development;
• valuable wildlife habitats and increased biodiversity;
• accessible opportunities for recreation and enjoyment of the natural world; and
• opportunities for communities to participate in the management of the local environment. The restoration of derelict land and mineral sites can offer valuable opportunities to improve landscapes and enhance biodiversity.

Enquiries about the content of the PAN should be addressed to: Graeme Purves on 0131 244 7533 email: graeme.purves@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

Retail Development Survey

The first results of the Retail Development Survey, covering the year 1998, have just been published on the Scottish Executive web site www.scotland.gov.uk/planning. The Survey is concerned with all developments over 1000 sq. metres and indicates that during 1998:

• 109 applications for retail development, totalling 559,000 sq. metres of floorspace, were submitted to planning authorities;
• 77 planning consents (458,000 sq. metres) and 47 planning refusals (330,000 sq. metres) were issued;
• 30 schemes (319,000 sq. metres) were under construction; and
• 25 schemes ( 89,000 sq. metres) commenced trading

With regard to the sequential approach, it is worth noting that no applications for town centre sites were refused. Although 56% of the approved floorspace was on town centre or edge of centre sites, a significant amount was approved in out of centre locations. However, almost all of this was within existing urban areas and eight times more floorspace was approved on brownfield as opposed to greenfield sites.

This annual survey was instituted by the former Scottish Office because there was no reliable system in place to monitor the effectiveness of the Scottish Executive's retail planning policies, which give support to town centres. It was also recognised that the information would be of benefit to local authorities in preparing and evaluating their own retail planning policies and to retailers and developers in considering development options.

The 1998 data provides a snapshot of the retail development process. There will be considerably more benefit in succeeding years when we are able to compare year with year. It is hoped to publish the 1999 results early in 2001.

Further details on the Retail Development Survey are available from Ken Jobling: 0131 244 7548 e-mail:ken.jobling@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

Land for Housing: current research and forthcoming revision of NPPG 3

Planning for the supply of housing land rarely fails to inspire controversy - reaching agreement locally on individual sites for new housing, brownfield versus greenfield locations, debates over design, layouts and densities, the quantity of land required to meet demand for new homes, and the diverse types of houses sought by householders - just a few aspects of the challenge of meeting demand for new housing.

Developers have expressed concern that the development planning system is not keeping pace with demand for new housing or taking sufficient account of market requirements. Within the next ten years, the current constraints on land supply may lead to significant shortages of housing in some parts of Scotland, according to representatives of the housebuilding industry.

In light of national policy, household projections, and comments from within the house building industry, the Executive are looking closely at the adequacy of the supply of housing land in Scotland. An initial comparison of overall supply in approved and emerging structure plans with the 1998-based household projections suggests that on an all-Scotland basis there is enough effective or potentially effective land to meet demand for the next five years. However there are parts of Scotland where housing demand is much higher than the national average, and preparation of updated structure plans is not progressing at a uniform pace across the country.

Research

Responding to this and the concerns expressed by housebuilders, the Executive has commissioned a detailed study of the efficacy of the planning system in bringing forward effective housing land. This research is being carried out by a team from Edinburgh College of Art and will be completed this month.

Revision to national policy

A revision of NPPG 3: Land for Housing is anticipated during 2001, drawing on the findings and recommendations of the current research. The aim will be to update and refine the policy framework, making sure that the planning system meets the need for new housing land and addresses the interests of all involved - housebuilders, planning authorities, consumers, and environmental groups.

Research

Completed

Advertising Planning Proposals
Contact:David Leven Contractor: James Barr Consultants Published
This report evaluates the requirement for local authorities to advertise planning applications.

Future Patterns of Retailing in Scotland
Contact: Ken Jobling Contractor: Professor John Dawson, University of Edinburgh Published
This report reviews changes in retailing through the 1990s, suggests the pattern of development that may take place in the future and identifies the implications for land-use planning.

Public Attitudes towards Wind Farms in Scotland
Contact: Andrew Fleming, CRU Contractor: System Three Social Research
An examination of local attitudes towards the four operational wind farms in Scotland.

Details of these and other current projects can be found on the Central Research Unit's website atwww.scotland.gov.uk/cru.

Underway

Recycled Aggregates in Scotland
Contact: Brian Spiers
Will identify the current baseline position on the use of recycled aggregates in Scotland and determine the way forward for future regular survey and collection of information for time series analysis. To be completed in December 2000.

Obsolete Commercial and Industrial Buildings and the Planning System
Contact: Ken Jobling Contractor: EKOS Ltd
Aims to establish the nature, extent and causes of the problem of obsolescence with recommendations on necessary measures. To be completed in January 2001.

Land for Housing
Contact: Helen Curry Contractor: School of Planning and Housing, ECA/Heriot Watt
Will provide an accurate assessment of the availability and suitability of housing land brought forward through the development plan process, indicating likely significant mismatches between demand and supply. To be completed in December 2000.

Environmental Management of Public Open Space
Contact: Rosie Grant Contractor: Kit Campbell Associates
Considers how the planning system can improve the standard of management and maintenance of public open space. To be completed in December 2000.

The Use and Effectiveness of Planning Agreements
Contact: John McNairneyContractor: Colin Buchanan and Partners
To establish the use and effectiveness of planning agreements to deliver, amongst other things, sustainable transport objectives. To be completed in February 2001.

Land Supply for Affordable Housing in Rural Areas
Contact: Alison Brown, CRUContractor: School of Planning and Housing, ECA/Heriot Watt
To establish the factors affecting the supply of land for affordable housing in rural areas. To be completed in January 2001.

Proposed

Review of Old Mineral Permissions
To review the progress that has been made in reviewing Old Mineral Permissions and to ascertain how effective the review procedures have been.

Full details of the Scottish Executive's planning research programme for 2001-2002 will be published in the DD Research Programme, available in March.

Scottish Planning Awards

"Planning affects everyone in one way or another and it is important that planners and others strive to produce high quality decisions and outcomes. What we recognise as quality today should become the norm tomorrow."

Last February at Edinburgh's City Chambers, Sarah Boyack announced the awards for 1999, the third year of the Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning.

The Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning were first launched in 1997 and have attracted over 100 entries in their first 3 years. The Awards are managed in association with the Royal Town Planning Institute. Certificates are presented in three categories: Development Control; Development Planning; and Development on the Ground.

In their 1999 report, the judges commented that they would like to encourage more planning authorities to nominate their mainstream work in development planning and control, to meet the original targets of these Awards. They also noted that many nominations related to sustainable development and some might be more effectively recognised as exemplars in a wider awards scheme open to all forms of sustainable development initiative, public and private. They commended the notion of Scottish Sustainable Development Awards to the Scottish Executive, RTPI, and all other relevant bodies in Scotland.

In June, the 2000 Award scheme was launched and 32 nominations have been received. The judges are now assessing them and will make their recommendations to the Minister in time for the presentation ceremony in the Edinburgh City Chambers on Thursday 15 February 2001.

Judges' reports can be checked on the Executive's Planning Awards website where full details of more than 100 individual nominations are given under the three categories of development control, development planning and development on the ground, or grouped by council areas.

Further details on the Planning awards are available from Roger Kelly. Tel: 0131 244 7526or e-mail:roger.kelly@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

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

Scottish Executive Planning Helpline 0345 741741

The Planning Bulletin Supplement: Development Plan Progress

December 2000

Commentary on Local Plan coverage

The Development Plan Progress update is produced twice yearly by Planning Services Division of the Scottish Executive Development Department and edited by Kester Gibson, (0131 244 7087) Area 2H, Victoria Quay, EDINBURGH, EH6 6QQ.
Further copies are available from Sandra Gillespie (0131 244 7543) and at our website:www.scotland.gov.uk/planning