October 27 2008

Finance Secretary John Swinney has announced changes to the planning system that will see the government take a “proportionate” approach to calling in controversial planning applications.

The reform package includes proposals for local five-year development plans and online applications in a bid to curb red tape.

The measures are being drafted in an attempt to stimulate the ailing economy and are being supported by CBI Scotland, Cosla and local authorities.

A summit will be held on Tuesday bringing together planners, developers and local authorities to discuss the implementation of these actions.

The new measures aim to hand local authorities greater responsibility in vetting planning decisions and provide applicants with greater certainty over which types of development are suitable.

Online application forms are to be launched by the Scottish Government in Spring 2009.

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