The Scottish Parliament is considering Scotland’s Draft National Planning Framework. This is particularly important at this time. We have seen the impact of Covid and lockdown in our communities – the need to create more healthy spaces. We also have a climate emergency and planning plays a critical role in addressing issues to reduce carbon emissions and create living/working spaces within a biodiverse environment.

“The challenges that we are facing today demand a change in the way we plan our places for tomorrow… we will need to future proof places, be more innovative, and involve a wider range of people in planning.”

Tom Arthur, Minister for Public Finance, Planning and Community Wealth

Several committees in the Scottish Parliament will be examining what is in the Framework, taking evidence and putting forward amendments.

Citizens also have a say. The deadline for responses is Monday 10 January 2022. Click on this link: Consultation

Scottish Green MSP Ariane Burgess MSP, is the convener of the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee. She said:

“The National Planning Framework aims to have a huge impact on the way we live in Scotland.

“This ambition is clearly to be welcomed. But it is important we take the time to ensure these bold claims can be realised and that the people of Scotland have the opportunity to get involved in the proposed transformational change in how we live and work.

“The Framework is wide ranging and detailed and it is important that the Parliament has the chance to scrutinise this fully.

“To do this, this work will take place across a number of Parliament committees. Each of these committees will use their expertise and knowledge to assess the practical impacts of the Framework as well as how this could be improved to ensure real, lasting and meaningful change.”  

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