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Keppie
Planning generally welcome the review of the Planning System, which
is considered long overdue. Those operating within the present system
both within local government and private practice would acknowledge
that the current system has created an environment which frustrates
development and enterprise and has led to a series of delays and frustrations
which pitch the public and private sectors as competitors rather than
as partners in the system.
A number of proposals in the White Paper are to be welcomed such as:
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The
establishment of the National Planning Framework
The increased focus on community involvement and participation
at all stages of the
planning process
The streamlining of the Development Plan and Appeals process
Standardisation of the planning application forms
Transfer of responsibility for neighbour notification on planning
applications to Planning Authorities
Greater delegated powers to planning officers to determine applications
The non-introduction of third party rights of appeal |
A
number of issues within the White Paper do, however, require further
clarification in order that all those working within the planning system
have clear and unambiguous guidance. These include the following: -
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Clear
definition of the projects within the proposed Hierarchy for Planning.
Whilst the proposed mandatory examination for Development Plans
by the Scottish Executive Inquiry Reporters is welcomed, there
needs to be clear guidance as to the circumstances wherein the
Planning Authority can depart from the Reporter’s recommendations.
The proposal that there be a statutory requirement for hearings
for major developments that are significantly contrary to the
Development Plan and have attracted significant objections is
currently in place with the Development Plan Departure Hearing
procedure. If it is the intention that such hearings should take
place for development proposals where there have been significant
levels of objections but the proposals are in compliance with
the development plan then this would be something new.
Concern about how Scottish Ministers will enforce the statutory
duty for strategic Development Plans and Local Development Plans
to be replaced within five years of the date of adoption. Currently
there is a statutory obligation for planning authorities to process
planning applications within a two-month period – this is
not adhered to without any recourse from Scottish Ministers.
Regards the proposal to introduce “processing agreements”,
we have concerns about how this will be managed/enforced. |
There
is, however, much encouragement to be taken from the White Paper. Keppie
Planning would consider that failure to achieve the aims and objectives
of the Bill will only hinder the country’s economic competitiveness,
environmental protection and social justice and continue the downward
spiral of the role that effective Town and Country Planning can achieve
in Scotland, in partnership with stakeholders, developers and local
communities.
In conclusion the white paper has much to commend it, subject to the
caveats outlined earlier, however as in all statutory procedures much
is reliant on the operating efficiency of the system rather than its
set aims and objectives.
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