Chief planner: No final decisions made on changes to housing and Scottish planning policy

John McNairney

John McNairney said he has been made aware that some authorities may be viewing the current consultation on proposed changes to the Scottish Planning Policy as a direction from ministers which may be given significant weight in current planning decisions.

Based on this feedback, Mr McNairney felt it was important to clarify that no final decisions have been made on a change to existing policy.

“Any such change will be informed by the consultation and we encourage all stakeholders to respond,” he said. “Until then the existing policy remains in place.”

The letter added: “I would also like to make it clear to all authorities that none of the changes proposed in the consultation aim to undermine or contradict ministers’ stated commitments to delivering good quality development, including housing and renewable energy projects.

“We have now adjusted the introductory wording introducing the consultation paper online to bring clarity to this position. The consultation closes on 9 October and we expect to reach a final policy position as soon as practicable thereafter.

“I trust this clarifies our position in the meantime.”