A consultation on the future of the Scottish Planning System

Overview

In 2015 Ministers commissioned an independent panel to undertake a review of the planning system. The review included opportunities to get involved through both written and oral evidence and an online discussion forum. Since then we have been working with a wide range of stakeholders, including community representatives, public and private sectors, to explore potential changes to the planning system. Ministers signalled in the Programme for Government that a Planning Bill would be brought forward early in the Parliamentary Session (Year 2). To enable that, consultation on the key components of the legislation has been scheduled for 10 January to 4 April 2017.

The consultation paper provides details of proposed changes to the planning system in Scotland and seeks respondent's views on them.

Please see our Participation Statement which sets out how to get involved in the consultation.

Why your views matter

People are at the heart of our proposals for reform. Everyone should have an opportunity to get involved in planning. This consultation builds on the work of the Independent Panel, the Scottish Government and stakeholders. It presents our proposals for change and provides an opportunity for people to help shape the future of the planning system in Scotland.

Following completion of the consultation period analysis of the responses will be undertaken and published within 12 weeks of the consultation closing.

The analysis will help inform the drafting and production of a draft Planning Bill which is to be introduced to Parliament in Year 2 of the Parliamentary Programme.

During the time of the consultation closing and the introduction of the bill we will be engaging with key stakeholders to finalise the detailed proposals for inclusion in the bill.

Click here to view the consultation paper.