National Planning Framework 4

33. Minerals 94 Part 3 – Annexes A – How to use this document B – National Developments Statements of Need C – Spatial planning priorities D – Six qualities of successful places E – Minimum all-tenure housing land requirement F – Glossary of definitions G – Acronyms National Planning Framework 4 02 Ministerial Foreword Tom Arthur MSP Minister for Public Finance, Planning and Community Wealth I am delighted to publish Scotland’s fourth for excellence and expertise in this field National Planning Framework. I am proud that, demonstrates what can be achieved when the for the first time, we have brought together our choices are in our own hands. We can build on long-term spatial strategy with a comprehensive this. By securing a new future for Scotland as set of national planning policies to form part of an independent country, additional powers will the statutory development plan. be available to support public and private sector investment in development and infrastructure The world is changing, and so are Scotland’s across our country. places. This strategy sets out how we will work together in the coming years to improve Changes to our places will not always be people’s lives by making sustainable, liveable easy. People care about their neighbourhoods and productive places. This will play a key role and rightly and reasonably expect that new in delivering on the United Nations Sustainable development should improve their lives, rather Development Goals, as well as our national than undermining what they value most. To outcomes. help deliver on this strategy I am committed to involving a wider range of people in planning. Planning carries great responsibility – decisions A fairer and more inclusive planning system about development will impact on generations will ensure that everyone has an opportunity to to come. Putting the twin global climate and shape their future so that our places work for all nature crises at the heart of our vision for a of us. I also recognise that planning authorities future Scotland will ensure the decisions we across Scotland will need support and guidance make today will be in the long-term interest of to put our proposals and policies into practice, our country. and will continue to work with the profession and local government to ensure our system can As we recover from the pandemic we are realise its full potential. working towards achieving net zero in a way which also tackles longstanding challenges and The process for preparing this strategy has inequalities. We live in challenging times, but shown what can be achieved when we work better places will be an important part of our together. I greatly appreciate the ideas that response to our strategic priorities of net zero, people and organisations have contributed. I child poverty and a wellbeing economy. Planning am also very grateful to the Scottish Parliament will also play a critical role in delivering the for the time and energy they have put into their National Strategy for Economic Transformation scrutiny of the draft document. National Planning and in community wealth building. Framework 4 has benefited considerably from their thoughtful and constructive input. Planning is already a fully devolved function of the Scottish Government. Our global reputation Ministerial Foreword National Planning Framework 4 03 Part 1 – A National Spatial Strategy for Scotland 2045 The world is facing unprecedented challenges. outcomes are concentrated in parts of Scotland The global climate emergency means that we where life expectancy is significantly lower than need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in more advantaged areas. Access to the natural and adapt to the future impacts of climate environment varies, and pollution and derelict change. We will need to respond to a growing land is concentrated in some places. Population nature crisis, and to work together to enable change will bring further challenges in the future, development that addresses the social and particularly in rural parts of Scotland. Many economic legacy of the coronavirus pandemic, people have limited access to opportunities the cost crisis and longstanding inequality. because of the way our places have been designed in the past, and our city and town Scotland’s rich heritage, culture and outstanding centres have experienced accelerating change environment are national assets which support in recent years. our economy, identity, health and wellbeing. Many communities benefit from great places with We have already taken significant steps towards excellent quality of life and quality, affordable decarbonising energy and land use, but choices homes. Many people can easily access high need to be made about how we can make quality local greenspaces and neighbourhood sustainable use of our natural assets in a way facilities, safe and welcoming streets and spaces which benefits communities. and buildings that reflect diverse cultures and aspirations. Increasingly, communities have been Planning is a powerful tool for delivering change finding new ways to live sustainably, including on the ground in a way which brings together by taking control of their property or land. competing interests so that decisions reflect the long-term public interest. Past, present However, people living in Scotland have very and future challenges mean that we will different life chances, at least partly a result of need to make the right choices about where the places where they live. development should be located. We also need to be clear about the types of infrastructure we Past industrial restructuring has had significant will need to build, and the assets that should impacts in some places and communities. be protected to ensure they continue to benefit Disadvantage, child poverty and poor health future generations. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 04 Spatial principles Applying these principles in practice We want our future places to work for everyone. We will plan our future places in line with six Rather than compromise or trade-offs between overarching spatial principles: environmental, social and economic objectives, • Just transition. We will empower people to this is an integrated strategy to bring together shape their places and ensure the transition to cross-cutting priorities and achieve sustainable net zero is fair and inclusive. development. • Conserving and recycling assets. We will By applying these spatial principles, our national make productive use of existing buildings, spatial strategy will support the planning and places, infrastructure and services, locking delivery of: in carbon, minimising waste, and building a circular economy. • sustainable places, where we reduce emissions, restore and better connect • Local living. We will support local liveability biodiversity; and improve community health and wellbeing by ensuring people can easily access • liveable places, where we can all live better, services, greenspace, learning, work and healthier lives; and leisure locally. • productive places, where we have a greener, • Compact urban growth. We will limit urban fairer and more inclusive wellbeing economy. expansion so we can optimise the use of land to provide services and resources, including Eighteen national developments support carbon storage, flood risk management, blue this strategy, including single large scale and green infrastructure and biodiversity. projects and networks of several smaller scale proposals that are collectively nationally • Rebalanced development. We will target significant. National developments will be a development to create opportunities for focus for delivery, as well as exemplars of the communities and investment in areas of Place Principle, placemaking and a Community past decline, and manage development Wealth Building (CWB) approach to economic sustainably in areas of high demand. development. Regional spatial strategies and • Rural revitalisation. We will encourage Local Development Plans (LDPs) should identify sustainable development in rural areas, and support national developments which are recognising the need to grow and support relevant to their areas. urban and rural communities together. The strategy will be taken forward in different These principles will play a key role in delivering ways across Scotland, reflecting the diverse on the United Nations (UN) Sustainable character, assets and challenges of our places. Development Goals (SDGs) and our national To guide this, we have identified regional outcomes. spatial priorities for five broad regions of Scotland which will inform the preparation of regional spatial strategies (RSS) and LDPs by planning authorities. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 05 Table 1 – National Planning Framework 4 Summary Spatial principles National Developments Policies Key policy links Cross cutting policies Sustainable places • Just transition • Energy Innovation Development • Tackling the climate and nature crises • Land Use – getting the best from SDGs: 7, 11, 12, 13 • Conserving and on the islands. • Climate mitigation and adaptation our land: strategy 2021 – 2026 recycling assets • Pumped Hydro Storage • Biodiversity • Making things last: a circular National outcomes: • Strategic Renewable Electricity economy strategy for Scotland Environment, • Natural places communities, economy Generation and Transmission • Scotland’s Energy Strategy Infrastructure • Soils • Scotland’s Environment Strategy • Circular Economy Materials • Forestry, woodland and trees • Scotland’s Forestry Strategy Management Facilities • Historic assets and places • Scottish Biodiversity Strategy • Urban Sustainable, Blue • Green belts and Green Surface Water • Brownfield land, vacant and derelict land Management Solutions and empty buildings • Urban Mass/Rapid Transit • Coastal development Networks • Energy • Climate Change Plan • Zero waste • Climate Change • Sustainable transport Adaptation Programme Liveable places • Liveable places • Central Scotland Green Network • Design, quality and place • A Connected Scotland • Just Transition Plans SDGs: 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11 • Compact urban • National Walking, Cycling and • Local living and 20 minute neighbourhoods • A Healthier Future: Scotland’s diet • National Transport growth Wheeling Network • Quality homes and healthy weight delivery plan National outcomes: Strategy Communities, culture, • Edinburgh Waterfront • Rural homes • Cleaner Air for Scotland 2 human rights, children • Infrastructure • Dundee Waterfront • Infrastructure first • Creating Places and young people, Investment Plan • Stranraer Gateway • Heat and cooling • Culture Strategy health • Strategic Transport • A Digital Fibre Network • Blue and green infrastructure • Heat in Buildings Strategy Projects Review 2 • Play, recreation and sport • Housing to 2040 • National Islands Plan • Flood risk and water management • Learning Estate Strategy/Learning Estate Investment Programme • National Marine Plan • Health and Safety • Public Health Priorities for Scotland • Tackling Child Poverty • Digital infrastructure • Remote, Rural and Islands Housing Delivery Plan Action Plan (pub. Spring 2023) • Scotland’s Population Strategy Productive places • Rebalancing • Clyde Mission • Community wealth building • National Strategy for Economic SDGs: 1, 2, 8, 9, 11, 14 development • Aberdeen Harbour • Business and industry Transformation • Rural revitalisation • Industrial Green Transition Zones • City, town, local and commercial centres • Retail Strategy for Scotland National outcomes: Fair work and business, • Hunterston Strategic Asset • Retail • Report of the City Centre Recovery economy, poverty, Taskforce • Chapelcross Power Station • Rural development communities Redevelopment • Scottish land rights and • Tourism responsibilities statement • High Speed Rail • Culture and creativity • Town Centre Action Plan 2 • Aquaculture • Minerals National Planning Framework 4 06 Sustainable places Our climate is changing, with increasing rainfall, Just Transition sector plans, designed and extreme weather events and higher temperatures delivered with those impacted, will play an that will intensify in the coming years. This will important role in delivering the change we need increase flood risk, water scarcity, environmental to see. We must also adapt to the impacts of change, coastal erosion, impact on forestry and climate change that are already locked in, by agriculture, and generate risks to health, food delivering Scotland’s Climate Change Adaptation security and safety. Impacts will not be equal Programme. and communities who already face disadvantage will be particularly affected. Scotland’s Climate Assembly set out recommendations for how Scotland should Scotland’s high quality environment, and change to tackle the climate emergency and the natural capital it supports, underpin our gives us a key insight into the measures the approach to tackling climate change and the Scottish Public expect for a just transition to net economy and is fundamental to our health and zero emissions by 2045. wellbeing. It provides the essentials we all need to survive, including clean air, water and food. Scotland’s Energy Strategy will set a new agenda for the energy sector in anticipation However, the health of the planet’s ecosystems of continuing innovation and investment. The is declining faster than at any point in human interplay between land and sea will be critical, history and our natural environment is facing given the scale of offshore renewable energy significant challenges, including ongoing loss resources. Our Infrastructure Investment Plan of biodiversity. Since the 1990s alone, wildlife and National Transport Strategy are clear that we populations in Scotland have declined, on must work with our existing infrastructure assets average, by around a quarter. This threatens the first, before investing in additional assets. capacity of the natural environment to provide the services we all rely on, and reduces our Scotland’s Environment Strategy sets out the resilience to the impacts of climate change. Scottish Government’s vision for tackling the twin climate and nature crises. Building on this, Scotland’s Climate Change Plan, backed by a new Scottish Biodiversity Strategy will set legislation, has set our approach to achieving targets for halting biodiversity loss by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2045, and we must restoring and regenerating biodiversity by 2045. make significant progress towards this by 2030 Scotland’s Land Use Strategy aims to make including by reducing car kilometres travelled efficient use of our land by managing competing by 20% by reducing the need to travel and activities in a sustainable way. promoting more sustainable transport. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 07 National spatial strategy National developments Scotland’s future places will be net zero, Six national developments support the delivery of nature-positive places that are designed to sustainable places: reduce emissions and adapt to the impacts of • Energy Innovation Development on the climate change, whilst protecting, recovering Islands provides infrastructure for low carbon and restoring our environment. fuels for communities and commerce, as well Meeting our climate ambition will require a rapid as for export. This will contribute to improved transformation across all sectors of our economy energy security, unlock opportunities for and society. This means ensuring the right employment and business, and help to put development happens in the right place. Scotland at the forefront of low carbon fuel innovation. Every decision on our future development • Pumped Hydro Storage extends hydro- must contribute to making Scotland a more electricity capacity to support the transition sustainable place. We will encourage low and away from fossil fuels, whilst also providing zero carbon design and energy efficiency, employment opportunities in rural areas. development that is accessible by sustainable travel, and expansion of renewable energy • Strategic Renewable Electricity Generation generation. It is also crucial that we build and Transmission Infrastructure supports resilience to the future impacts of climate electricity generation and associated grid change including water resources and assets infrastructure throughout Scotland, providing and development on our coasts. Our places employment and opportunities for community will also need to evolve to help us cope with benefit, helping to reduce emissions and changing temperatures. improve security of supply. • Circular Economy Materials Management Our commitment to a just transition, means Facilities facilitates delivery of zero waste that our journey to a net zero society and nature objectives by reducing the need for new recovery must involve, and be fair to, everyone. materials, resource use and emissions. We will grow a circular economy and make best use of embodied carbon by conserving and • Urban Sustainable, Blue and Green recycling assets, including by encouraging Surface Water Management Solutions is an sustainable design and the wise use of exemplar of a nature based, infrastructure first resources. approach to catchment wide surface water flood risk management to help our two largest To respond to the global biodiversity crisis, cities adapt to the future impacts of climate nature recovery must be at the heart of future change. places. We will secure positive effects for • Urban Mass/Rapid Transit Networks biodiversity, create and strengthen nature facilitates a shift towards sustainable transport networks and invest in nature-based solutions to in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen benefit natural capital and contribute to net zero. and their wider regions, helping to reduce We will use our land wisely including through a transport related emissions and supporting renewed focus on reusing vacant and derelict accessibility for all. land to help limit the new land that we build on. We will protect and enhance our historic environment, and safeguard our shared heritage for future generations. We will also work together to ensure that development onshore aligns with national, sectoral and regional marine plans. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 08 CROSS-CUTTING OUTCOME AND POLICY LINKS: REDUCING GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Our strategy and policies support development that helps to meet greenhouse gas emissions targets. The global climate emergency and the nature crisis have formed the foundations for the spatial strategy as a whole. The regional priorities share opportunities and challenges for reducing emissions and adapting to the long-term impacts of climate change, in a way which protects and enhances our natural environment. Policy 1 gives significant weight to the global climate emergency in order to ensure that it is recognised as a priority in all plans and decisions. Policy 2 will ensure that emissions from new development are minimised as far as possible. A healthy natural environment is key to reducing emissions. Policies 3 and 4 protect biodiversity and natural assets, which in turn play a crucial role in carbon reduction. Policy 5 provides significant protection for peatland and carbon rich soils and Policy 6 aims to protect and expand forests, woodland and trees. Blue and green infrastructure is supported by Policy 20. Policy 10 encourages the use of natural solutions to coastal protection. Policy 7 protects the embodied carbon in the historic built environment, and Policy 9 makes better use of previously used land and buildings, helping to lock in carbon. By supporting the transition of key emissions generating activities, Policy 11 supports renewable energy development, Policy 19 helps to decarbonise heat, alongside Policy 18 and its encouragement of an infrastructure first approach. Policy 12 encourages sustainable waste management, and Policy 13 will facilitate a transition towards more sustainable, lower emissions travel including active travel and public transport. Several policies support more local living and limit the use of additional land for development. This includes Policy 8 which manages development in the greenbelt, Policy 15 which promotes local living, including where feasible 20 minute neighbourhoods, and Policy 16 which focuses on delivering new homes that are designed to a high standard and located in sustainable places. Minimising and reducing emissions is also integral to the six qualities of successful places, as set out in Policy 14. Policies 17 and 29 support rural development which is compatible with climate change targets. Policy 24 facilitates the roll out of digital infrastructure, helping to reduce the need to travel. Policy 27 promotes a town centre first approach to development and Policy 28 restricts additional out of town retail development. Policies relating to productive places are consistent with our ambition for green growth in the futures. More specifically, Policy 33 is clear that fossil fuel exploration, development and production (excluding unconventional oil and gas) will not be supported other than in exceptional circumstances, and that the Scottish Government does not support the development of unconventional oil and gas in Scotland. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 09 CROSS-CUTTING OUTCOME AND POLICY LINKS: IMPROVING BIODIVERSITY Our strategy and policies support development that helps to secure positive effects for biodiversity. The nature crisis, together with the global climate emergency, underpinned the spatial strategy as a whole. The action areas include proposals which protect and enhance the natural environment. Policy 1 gives significant weight to the nature crisis to ensure that it is recognised as a priority in all plans and decisions. Policy 4 protects and enhances natural heritage, and this is further supported by Policy 5 on soils and Policy 6 on forests, woodland and trees. Policy 20 also promotes the expansion and connectivity of blue and green infrastructure, whilst Policy 10 recognises the particular sensitivities of coastal areas. Protection of the natural features of brownfield land is also highlighted in Policy 9, and protection of the green belt in Policy 8 will ensure that biodiversity in these locations is conserved and accessible to communities, bringing nature into the design and layout of our cities, towns, streets and spaces in Policy 14. Most significantly, Policy 3 plays a critical role in ensuring that development will secure positive effects for biodiversity. It rebalances the planning system in favour of conserving, restoring and enhancing biodiversity and promotes investment in nature-based solutions, benefiting people and nature. The policy ensures that LDPs protect, conserve, restore and enhance biodiversity and promote nature recovery and nature restoration. Proposals will be required to contribute to the enhancement of biodiversity, including by restoring degraded habitats and building and strengthening nature networks. Adverse impacts, including cumulative impacts, of development proposals on the natural environment will be minimised through careful planning and design, taking into account the need to reverse biodiversity loss. Development proposals for national, major or Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) development will only be supported where it can be demonstrated that the proposal will conserve, restore and enhance biodiversity, including nature networks, so they are in a demonstrably better state than without intervention. Proposals for local development will include appropriate measures to conserve, restore and enhance biodiversity. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 10 Liveable places The global pandemic has left a social legacy Access to affordable, quality homes in better that requires urgent, as well as long-term action. places, as supported by Housing to 2040, will Many people need better places to support their make an important contribution to addressing the lifelong health and wellbeing and build their impact of the cost crisis, particularly on younger future resilience. In recent years communities people who will also benefit from reduced have found ways to work together to find local transport costs. The planning system has an solutions to shared challenges. However, the important role to play in supporting the delivery cost crisis is again underlining the need for of homes which meet our future needs. our future buildings and places to do more to support our long-term resilience. Consistent with this, Scotland’s Population Strategy reflects the need for planning to identify There remain significant differences between the the amount of land required for future homes healthy life expectancy of people living in the and to enable more balanced demographic most and least deprived parts of Scotland. More change including sustainable rural development. people need to be involved in planning their future places so that the built environment is safe Health policies, including Scotland’s diet and welcoming to everyone, including women, and healthy weight delivery plan reflect disabled people, children and young people and the importance of places which provide black and ethnic minority groups. opportunities for exercise and access to healthy food. Our strategy for tackling social isolation Scotland’s Tackling Child Poverty Delivery and loneliness also recognises the importance Plan sets out actions required to continue to of providing quality, accessible and welcoming reduce the number of children living in poverty. places for everyone through placemaking and It recognises the importance of place and regeneration. continued investment in regeneration, targeted to areas where the need is greatest. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 11 National spatial strategy We want to make better use of our spaces to Scotland’s future places will have homes and support physical activity, relaxation and play, neighbourhoods that are healthier, affordable to bring people together and to celebrate our and vibrant places to live. culture, diversity and heritage. Buildings and other physical assets can also support activities We have an opportunity to significantly improve based on intangible cultural assets such as our places, address longstanding inequality and Gaelic language. eliminate discrimination, helping to transform our country for the better. Cleaner, safer and greener We will improve green infrastructure to bring places and improved open spaces will build nature into our towns and cities, connecting resilience and provide wider benefits for people, people with nature, building resilience and health and biodiversity, in a balanced way. helping our biodiversity to recover and flourish. We will ensure we work towards a stronger We will plan our future places in a way that infection-resilient society through adaptations to improves local living, so that we live in our buidlings and the spaces around them. communities that are inclusive, empowered, resilient, safe and provides opportunites for Our strategy is to value, enhance, conserve learning. Quality homes will be better served and celebrate our places and to build better by local facilities and services by applying communities for future generations. A stronger the principles of local living to development commitment to placemaking, through a design- proposals. The concept of 20 minute led approach and a focus on quality, will ensure neighbourhoods will help to support this, every new development improves the experience particularly in more urban areas. In rural areas of our places. the approach to local living will be shaped by local context. Underpinning this, everyone must have an opportunity to help shape their local Planning must also enable the delivery of good neighbourhoods. We will continue to work to quality, affordable homes by allocating enough broaden involvement in the planning system as a land in the right locations to meet current and whole. future needs and aspirations. Recognising the need for liveable places to be consistent with our ambition for net zero and nature recovery, we will promote compact urban growth. Higher density development which will help to sustain public transport and support local living. Virtual connectivity and continued investment in active travel links will also be important. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 12 National developments Six national developments support the delivery of liveable places: • Central Scotland Green Network restores nature at scale and acts as an exemplar of green infrastructure in placemaking that provides benefits for communities and supports a wellbeing economy. This will provide multiple benefits for health, biodiversity, and will help us to mitigate and adapt to climate change. Action should continue to focus on areas where community wellbeing and resilience would benefit most. • National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling Network strengthens and extends a national active travel network to reduce emissions from transport, focusing on areas where improvements to accessibility are most needed. • Edinburgh Waterfront creates a high quality, mixed use, locally liveable place, contributing to the sustainable future development of Scotland’s capital city. • Dundee Waterfront delivers a high quality, mixed use, locally liveable place demonstrating resilient waterfront regeneration which anticipates and responds to climate impacts. • Stranraer Gateway acts as a hub for surrounding communities. Regeneration will help create a high quality, mixed use, locally liveable place, optimising the area as a national and international gateway. • A Digital Fibre Network enhances the connectivity of communities and help to facilitate more sustainable ways of living including in rural and island communities. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 13 CROSS-CUTTING OUTCOME AND POLICY LINKS: A FAIR AND INCLUSIVE PLANNING SYSTEM Our strategy and policies support development that helps to eliminate discrimination and promote equality. We expect everyone involved in planning to take steps to ensure that a wide range of people are involved in shaping their future places. Planning authorities are required to respect, protect and fulfil human rights in accordance with the Human Rights Act 1998. As per the Equality Act 2010, the Public Sector Equality duty is applicable and Equality Impact Assessments, Fairer Scotland Duty Assessments and where applicable Island Communities Impact Assessments are required for LDPs. The UN Convention of the Rights of the Child also means that young people must be encouraged to play an active role in planning. Throughout the planning system, opportunities are available to engage in development planning and decisions about future development. Such engagement, undertaken in line with statutory requirements, should be early, collaborative, meaningful and proportionate. Support or concern expressed on matters material to planning must be given careful consideration in the determination of development proposals. Our places can only work for everyone if the views of all users are properly understood, but experience shows that some people can find it more challenging to engage with planning. There are opportunities to involve a wider range of people in the planning system. It is essential, and a statutory requirement, that people with protected characteristics, including disability, race, age, sex and sexual orientation, and including people from a range of socio-economic backgrounds, are given particular support to express their views on plans and decisions, with consultations designed to meet the communication needs of people. The spatial strategy as a whole is clear that our future development must support a just transition, and it highlights opportunities for development and regeneration that are designed to tackle social, economic and health inequalities. Policy 14, focusing on the six qualities of successful places recognises that diversity is an integral part of placemaking. Children and young people will have an important contribution to make, given the long-term impacts of planning for future generations. Women, as well as disabled people and their representatives, can ensure that barriers and challenges of the design of our living and working environments are tackled effectively. We have also provided clear support for development that will help to ensure human rights are maintained, for example: Policy 16 on quality homes which addresses the need for accommodation for Gypsy/Travellers and Travelling Showpeople yards, as well as homes for older people and disabled people; and Policy 21 which supports and facilitates spaces and opportunities for play, recreation and sport in our natural and built environments for children and people for all ages. Our impact assessment has demonstrated that there is potential for significant benefits from more sustainable, liveable and productive places which will be delivered by these and other policies. We recognise that delivery will also depend on fair and inclusive engagement with people, and we will therefore continue to promote best practice and innovation, including in guidance on effective community engagement. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 14 CROSS-CUTTING OUTCOME AND POLICY LINKS: HOMES THAT MEET OUR DIVERSE NEEDS Our strategy and policies support development that helps to meet the housing needs of people living in Scotland including, in particular, the housing needs of older people and disabled people. The spatial strategy has taken into account future population and household projections, and highlights areas where there will be particular challenges arising from an ageing population. Spatial principles, including local living and just transition, will also help to ensure that the needs of all people are reflected in our future places. Policy 16 supports the delivery of high quality, sustainable homes that meet the needs of people throughout their lives. In particular, it supports proposals for new homes that improve affordability and choice by being adaptable to changing and diverse needs, and which address identified gaps in provision. This could include: accessible, adaptable and wheelchair accessible homes; homes that meet the needs of older people; a range of size of homes; and other specialist groups. The majority of older people want to remain in their home as they age, preferring mainstream housing, and so accessible and adaptable homes can allow people to continue to live independently. The close alignment of planning and housing delivery at the local level, through LDPs and Local Housing Strategies, will help to deliver the right type and mix of homes in the right locations. In addition Housing to 2040 sets out a commitment to Scottish Accessible Home Standard in 2025/26. Development that provides homes to meet the needs of older people and disabled people will be further promoted by LDPs. Evidence reports will explain the action taken to support and promote the construction and/ or adaptation of homes to meet their needs. Spatial strategies will take into account housing needs and the availability of land for new homes, including for older people and disabled people through the Accessible Home Standard, wheelchair housing targets and the consideration of accessibility in design of the wider development and local amenity. The planning authority must also keep their plan under review, and monitor any changes in this. Placemaking and choices about the location of development will also help to meet the needs of older people and disabled people. Policy 14 supports development that is consistent with the six qualities of successful places, including health and wellbeing, and safe and pleasant places for people to meet. Policy 15 supports development that is consistent with the principles of local living and 20 minute neighbourhoods, helping to ensure our homes and wider neighbourhoods meet all of our needs. As part of this, it recognises that affordable housing options, ability to age in place and housing diversity are an integral part of more liveable places. Policy 13 is also clear that the views of disabled people must be sought when seeking to reduce reliance on the car including by managing car parking provision. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 15 Productive places The economic performance of different parts of Our city centres are socially and culturally Scotland varies considerably, with challenges important, supporting our productivity and and opportunities for different places and stimulating innovation and investment. The sectors. At present, some communities are pandemic has generated severe impacts and particularly affected by high rates of poverty, one longer term challenges for these places. The in five people of working age is economically City Centre Recovery Taskforce has developed inactive, and there is significant scope to a shared vision for their future with support from improve our productivity and the scale and rate the City Centre Recovery Fund for recovery and of business development. repurposing. Through playing their part in the delivery of the National Strategy for Economic The unprecedented challenge of the pandemic Transformation, Scotland’s cities have a has created difficult conditions for some sectors nationally significant opportunity to contribute to including hospitality, tourism, and culture. The Scotland’s economic recovery and to achieve a cost crisis and our exit from the European Union wellbeing economy. have combined with this to exacerbate labour shortages particularly in our more remote, rural The Town Centre Action Plan Review and our and island communities. World-wide supply subsequent response recognises the critical chain issues have generated severe challenges, importance of planning with and for communities including for the construction sector. sets a new vision for town centres, and reaffirms our commitment to the Town Centre First Scotland’s National Strategy for Economic Principle. It recognises the critical importance of Transformation aims to make Scotland a planning in diversifying the offer within our city successful place with opportunities for everyone, and town centres, to help them thrive, improve in every region of Scotland, to share in our their resilience and anticipate continuing societal, economic prosperity. It tackles the challenges environmental and economic change. The Place of structural inequality, the transition to net Based Investment Programme supports our zero, and achieving a green recovery from the commitment to town centre action, places, local pandemic. It also supports entrepreneurship and living and community wealth building. aims to play to the strengths and assets of each part of Scotland to build community wealth. Building community wealth should be founded on an assessment of local assets in partnership with communities. It also involves better co- ordinated state investment at national, regional and local levels to strengthen of Scotland’s indigenous business base and create sustainable fair work opportunities. Opportunities will flow from more land and assets being placed in the hands of communities or under their guiding influence. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 16 National spatial strategy Scotland’s national and international connectivity Our future places will attract new investment, for people and freight will remain important, build business confidence, stimulate GDP, for the economic, social and cultural benefits it export growth and entrepreneurship, and delivers and for supporting wider Government facilitate future ways of working. ambitions on trade, tourism, and business development. Airports, ports and rail links Planning will play a key role in creating a will provide vital connections within Scotland globally competitive, entrepreneurial, inclusive and beyond which will be crucial to building and sustainable economy, with thriving and on a sustainable recovery whilst helping to innovative businesses, quality jobs and fair work decarbonise transport through low and zero for everyone. emissions technologies. Looking ahead, there will also be opportunities to build on inclusive We will actively encourage investment where it growth within communities and support is needed most by rebalancing development. economic transformation through Green This will play to the economic strengths Freeports in Scotland. and opportunities of each part of Scotland. Significant investment opportunities include Rural revitalisation, achieved by distributing strategic sites which were previously a focus for development, investment and infrastructure industrial activity but which have experienced strategically and by actively enabling rural decline. These locations will play a significant development in particular, will play an important role in our transition to net zero as they are role in this. Key sectors including energy and served by strategic infrastructure, well located food and drink focus on natural resources and on or close to developed coasts, and could provide signficant employment in rural parts provide added benefits for communities that are of Scotland. These sectors also depend on in greatest need. They also include areas that supporting services and access to markets have been overlooked historically, but which are and there is significant potential for associated now strategically located for extensive renewable investment to develop a sustainable supply energy generation. chain. Digital connectivity will also be critical to their continued succes. Planning can enable diversification of city, town and commercial centres, to better manage their Urban areas are a focus for investment in the role and respond to ongoing changes to the built environment and many of our industries and way we shop and access services. The way we businesses are located in and around our cities. work is changing, and we will need to be flexible These areas will also be more attractive to future to facilitate future business and employment investors and their employees if they are greener that benefits communities and improves places. and healthier places to live. Digital connectivity will play a crucial role in supporting sustainable work in the future. The way we plan our places can contribute to our short term recovery, as well as longer term restructuring to tackle long standing inequalities. Our strategy is to build a wellbeing economy that benefits everyone, and every place, in Scotland. We want the planning system to create a society that is thriving across economic, social and environmental dimensions, and that delivers prosperity for all. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 17 National developments Six national developments support the delivery of productive places: • Clyde Mission brings together substantial public and private investment to remediate and regenerate brownfield land along the River Clyde for economic, social and environmental uses. • Aberdeen Harbour facilitates completion of the South Harbour and access to it as well as a more mixed use waterfront for Aberdeen on areas of the harbour that will not in future be required for port uses. This will contribute to international and national connectivity, freight and the renewable energy sector. • Industrial Green Transition Zones support transformation of key sites including by putting in place the infrastructure needed to commercialise carbon capture and storage and decarbonise industry. Innovation will provide green jobs, reduce emissions and help Scotland lead the way on new technologies. • Hunterston Strategic Asset supports re‑use the port and wider site, engaging in new technologies and creating opportunities from nuclear decommissioning to make best use of existing infrastructure and provide local benefits. • Chapelcross Power Station Redevelopment involves the reuse of a key site to provide a range of economic opportunities for local communities. Energy produced will help to reduce heating and transport emissions within the wider region. • High Speed Rail ensures connectivity with the United Kingdom (UK) and beyond, reduce long distance transport emissions and optimise the benefits more widely. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 18 CROSS-CUTTING OUTCOME AND POLICY LINKS: RURAL REVITALISATION Our strategy and policies support development that helps to retain and increase the population of rural areas of Scotland. The spatial strategy reflects a wide range of proposals for development in rural areas, supported by national developments that recognise the potential and need to expand key sectors including renewable energy, sustainable transport and green infrastructure. Policy 17 promotes the development of rural homes, to ensure the needs of communities are met in a sustainable way. Similarly, Policy 29 encourages development that will contribute to rural economies and communities. Development proposals that contribute to the viability, sustainability and diversity of rural businesses are supported while ensuring planning policies take into consideration local characteristics. Both policies support development in previously inhabited areas in a way that is guided by LDPs. Greater constraint will be applied in areas of pressure whilst in rural areas with fragile communities, a more enabling approach has been taken to support communities to be sustainable and thrive. LDPs are required to set out an appropriate approach to development in areas of pressure and decline informed by an understanding of population change and settlement characteristics and how these have changed over time as well as an understanding of the local circumstances including housing and travel. Many policies will also play an important role in supporting rural communities and population growth. Some focus on supporting sustainable development in key sectors for rural areas such as Policy 30 on tourism, which aims to ensure community, environmental and business considerations are fully taken into account. Policy 32 encourages sustainable aquaculture, whilst Policy 10 supports development in coastal areas that takes into account future vulnerability to climate change. Policy 11 supports opportunities for renewable energy development whilst Policy 24 will support the delivery of digital infrastructure to support investment and population growth in rural areas. Care has been taken to ensure policies reflect the specific needs and constraints of rural areas. Policy 13 ensures that in assessing the transport impacts of development, the area’s needs and characteristics are taken into account. Policy 15 aims to promote local living in broad terms, including through 20 minute neighbourhoods where practical, recognising varying settlement patterns and the particular characteristics and challenges of different areas in applying these principles in practice. Policy 28 also recognises the importance of retail facilities for rural communities and economies. Alongside this, recognising that environmental quality is a key asset for rural areas, Policies 3, 4, 5 and 6 ensure that natural assets are protected and enhanced. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 19 CROSS-CUTTING OUTCOME AND POLICY LINKS: LIFELONG HEALTH AND WELLBEING Our strategy and policies support development that helps to improve health and wellbeing. The spatial strategy as a whole recognises that there are significant health inequalities in Scotland that future development can help to address. The spatial principles aim to ensure that future development is directed to sustainable locations, recognising that the role of planning in supporting development in places which would benefit most from regeneration and investment. The natural environment is fundamental to our health and wellbeing from the benefits we get from being in nature to the design and delivery of blue and green infrastructure. Policies 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 manage the effects of development on biodiversity and on natural places. Policy 20 supports development that will provide good quality, accessible greenspaces and nature networks and Policy 21 supports development that will provide opportunities for sport and play. Active travel is encouraged by Policy 13 with walking and cycling providing wider health benefits. Policy 23 helps to protect health and wellbeing, including by ensuring that air and noise pollution are taken into account, and by planning and managing development to take hazards into account. Policy 22 ensures that future flood risk is not exacerbated by development, and facilitates the delivery of sustainable flood risk management solutions. Policy 10 manages development to reflect future vulnerability of coastal areas. Policy 9 encourages the redevelopment of brownfield land, helping to reduce the impact of vacant and derelict sites on communities. Housing plays a critical role in supporting our health and wellbeing. Policy 16 enables the delivery of well planned, good quality, affordable, safe and warm homes. Alongside this, Policy 13 supports development that provides, or is accessible by active travel and Policy 15 ensures people have access to facilities from their homes, including healthcare facilities. Development is also required to take into account the capacity and any additional needs for community services and facilities, as part of the infrastructure first approach set out in Policy 18. Policy 14 applies the six qualities of successful places to development proposals, including health and wellbeing. As part of this it prioritises key aspects including women’s safety and suicide risk and aims to ensure development does not undermine the amenity of our existing homes and places. Climate related mental and physical health effects will be addressed by the strategy as a whole and in particular by Policies 1 and 2 by ensuring future development minimises emissions and is built to reflect the future risks of climate change. Health and wellbeing will also be supported by development that helps us to transition to net zero, as reflected in Policy 11 on renewable energy, Policy 12 on zero waste, and Policy 19 on heat and cooling. Wider policies relating to economic development will have a further positive effect on overall health and wellbeing by supporting employment and investment in our places in a fair and sustainable way. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 20 National Spatial Strategy Legend 1 Strategic maritime routes Strategic connection Blue economy Transmission infrastructure National Developments Energy Innovation Development on the 1 1 Islands 2 Pumped Hydro Storage Scotland Wide Strategic eneable Electricity Generation 3 and Transmission Infrastructure Scotland Wide 1 Circular Economy Materials Management 4 Facilities Scotland Wide Urban Sustainable, Blue and Green Surface 5 Water Management Solutions 15 Edinburgh and Glasgow 6 Urban MassÜapid Transit Netorks Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow 14 6 7 Central Scotland Green Netork National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling 8 Netor k Scotland Wide 7 9 Edinburgh Waterfront 2 10 10 Dundee Waterfront 11 Stranraer Gateay Digital Fibre Netor k 15 9 5,6 18 12 Scotland Wide 13 5,6 18 7 7 13 Clyde Mission 16 14 Aberdeen Harbour 18 15 Industrial Green Transition Zones 16 Hunterston Strategic Asset 17 17 Chapelcross Poer Station edevelopment 11 18 High Speed ail Indicative Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 21 National Developments 1 Legend Sustainable Places Energy Innovation Development on the 1 Islands 2 Pumped Hydro Storage Scotland Wide Strategic Renewable Electricity Generation 3 and Transmission Infrastructure 1 Scotland Wide Circular Economy Materials Management 4 Facilities Scotland Wide Urban Sustainable, Blue and Green Surface 5 Water Management Solutions 1 Edinburgh and Glasgow 6 Urban Mass·Rapid Transit Networks Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow Liveable Places 15 7 Central Scotland Green Network National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling 6 8 Networë 14 6 Scotland Wide 9 Edinburgh Waterfront 1ö Dundee Waterfront 11 Stranraer Gateway 2 7 1ö 12 Digital Fibre Networë Scotland Wide Productive Places 15 9 5,6 18 13 5,6 13 Clyde Mission 7 7 16 14 Aberdeen Harbour 15 Industrial Green Transition Zones 18 16 Hunterston Strategic Asset 17 Chapelcross Power Station Redevelopment 17 11 18 High Speed Rail Indicative Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 22 Regional Spatial Priorities infrastructure, with potentially wide-ranging effects from biodiversity loss to coastal erosion, North and West Coast and Islands flooding and landslips. If we do not take action This part of Scotland will be at the forefront of to plan and build resilience, communities could our efforts to reach net zero emissions by 2045. suffer disproportionately from the impacts of It is a diverse area, from Shetland and Orkney climate change. in the north, to the Outer and Inner Hebrides A climate and nature conscious approach to and the coastal areas of Highland and Argyll development of this area can help to tackle and Bute. As one of the most renewable energy wider challenges. The Carbon Neutral Islands rich localities in Europe with significant natural project will support six islands (Hoy, Islay, resources, there is a real opportunity for this Great Cumbrae, Raasay, Barra and Yell) to area to support our shared national outcomes. become carbon neutral by 2040. This will act Key centres where lifeline links provide access to as a catalyst for further climate action across all the islands include Lerwick, Kirkwall, Stromness, Scottish islands to make more attractive, resilient Stornoway, Wick and Thurso, Ullapool, Mallaig and sustainable communities in the long-term. and Oban, whilst Tarbert, Lochgilphead and The relatively high levels of community land Campbeltown are important hubs to the south ownership, particularly in the Outer Hebrides, of the area. These centres provide important and strong ties with the land and sea reflect this services to their wider hinterlands. Local area’s strong sense of place and local resilience. projects are ongoing, including the regeneration Scotland’s National Islands Plan aims to grow of Stromness, the Stornoway Deep Water the population and economy, improve transport Port development, the linked Islands Growth and housing, and ensure island communities Deal Outer Hebrides Energy Hub project in are served by the facilities, jobs, education and Stornoway, and the Islands Growth Deal Knab services they need to flourish. Environmental Redevelopment project in Shetland. wellbeing, clean and affordable energy, strong The area has an exceptional environment with communities, culture and identity are also coastal and island landscapes that are an priorities. important part of our national identity. It is rich Around 94 of Scotland’s 900 islands are in biodiversity, sustaining many internationally permanently inhabited. The size and composition significant ecological sites, including the United of each population has changed over the years Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural and continues to do so. Whilst most recent Organization (UNESCO) Global Geoparks in estimates indicate population growth across the the North West Highlands and Shetland, and majority of local authority areas with islands, Wester Ross UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and population change within each area is more species including some of the best remaining complex, with areas of growth and depopulation temperate rainforest sites in Europe. It has a varying between islands and coastal rich history, language and distinctive cultural communities, and across different strata of the heritage including the St Kilda and the Heart of population. An ageing population in some parts Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Sites. of the area will mean that we need to do more to These key assets require careful management to reverse past patterns of population decline and ensure they continue to benefit communities. sustain local facilities and services that support There will be significant climate challenges rural and dispersed communities. for this part of Scotland. Island and coastal Public service provision, transport, energy ecosystems, and the communities they support, consumption, fuel poverty, child poverty and are naturally more vulnerable to the effects of housing, including its affordability, will continue climate change, sea level rise and extreme to be significant challenges. Employment varies events. Of particular concern are the impacts across the area, and can tend to rely on the on vulnerable low-lying coastal zones and public sector, tourism and lower wage sectors, Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 23 limiting the scope and choice of skilled jobs in The following national developments will support some locations. It can be difficult to attract and delivery of the spatial strategy for this area: retain a local workforce to support some jobs, • Energy Innovation Development on the Islands underlining the importance of building skills and promoting fair work principles to support future • Pumped Hydro Storage investment. Language skills are also important • Strategic Renewable Electricity Generation in many areas where Gaelic is used by the and Transmission Infrastructure community. • Circular Economy Material Management Challenges from the end of free movement Facilities and changing markets, and the agriculture and • National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling fishing industries, will need support to ensure Network long-term sustainability, but there are also substantial economic opportunities presented • Digital Fibre Network by developments in sectors such as renewable Further detail about the priorities for this area is energy generation. contained in Annex C. Further details of national developments are contained in Annex B. Priorities Alongside Scotland’s marine planning authorities, we will work with the area’s exceptional assets and natural resources to build a more resilient future for island and coastal communities. By guiding RSS and LDPs in this area, our strategy aims to: • Maximise the benefits of renewable energy whilst enhancing blue and green infrastructure, decarbonising transport and building resilient connections. • Support coastal and island communities to become carbon neutral, thus contributing to net-zero commitments and reducing fuel poverty. • Seize the opportunities to grow the blue and green economy, recognising the world-class environmental assets that require careful management and opportunities to develop skills and diversify employment. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 24 North and West Coast and Islands 1 1 Legend 1 Strategic maritime routes Strategic connection Blue economy Transmission infrastructure National Developments Energy Innovation Development on the 2 1 Islands 2 Pumped Hydro Storage Scotland Wide Strategic enewable Electricity eneration 3 and Transmission Infrastructure Scotland Wide Circular Economy Materials Management 4 Facilities Scotland Wide National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling 8 Network Scotland Wide 12 Digital Fibre Network Scotland Wide Indicative Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 25 North Parts of the area have recently experienced an accelerated increase in house prices. The The Highlands of Scotland, Moray, mainland pandemic has reinforced long standing issues Argyll, northern parts of rural Stirling and of affordability and a more mobile remote Perthshire are world renowned for their stunning workforce has been attracted to the area, adding landscapes, rich biodiversity and cultural increased pressure. Without intervention, access heritage. to affordable homes, jobs and services that Settlement patterns vary, from dispersed or low enable local people, including young people, density crofting townships, to key centres such to stay in their communities could become as Inverness, Ullapool, Dingwall, Grantown-on- more challenging. Fuel and transport poverty Spey, Aviemore, Elgin, Pitlochry and Aberfeldy. is a particular challenge towards the north and Cairngorms National Park is a national asset west and there are significant areas which do with internationally significant habitats and not currently benefit from good quality digital landscapes and there is currently a proposal connectivity. to make the Flow Country a UNESCO World The area’s environmental quality, culture, Heritage Site. The northern part of the Loch language, landscape and wildlife sustain key Lomond and The Trossachs National Park also economic sectors including tourism, food and extends into this area. drink, distilling and clean energy. Extensive Emissions here are partly offset by the climate areas of woodland and peatland act as a carbon sequestration from land use and forestry so sink, contributing significantly to our national that the area acts as a net carbon sink overall. sustainability. The area has a strong economy There are few sources of significant industrial with growing income and low unemployment emissions. Climate change risks include overall, but there remain pockets of deprivation changing levels of rainfall, increased storm both in urban areas and in more remote areas events, temperature rise, flood risk, rising where there is a need for alternatives to low sea levels and associated erosion. Tailored skilled and low paid jobs. measures will be required to assist communities in adapting to climate change and transitioning to net zero. This rural heartland is much more than a place of beauty and isolation. Many thriving communities live here, and they depend on local jobs and learning to support their quality of life. Some communities have experienced outmigration, particularly the loss of younger people, especially outwith Inverness. Further population decline is a future risk, particularly for the west and north. People often depend on the car and more limited access to services creates disadvantage, despite the quality of life and good health that many living here enjoy. An ageing population will put pressures on some services. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 26 Priorities The following national developments will also This part of Scotland can continue to make support delivery of the spatial strategy for this a strong contribution towards meeting our area: ambition for a net zero and nature positive • Pumped Hydro Storage country by demonstrating how natural assets can be managed and used to secure a more • Strategic Renewable Electricity Generation sustainable future. By guiding RSS and LDPs in and Transmission Infrastructure this area, our strategy aims to: • Circular Economy Material Management • Protect environmental assets and stimulate Facilities investment in natural and engineered solutions • National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling to climate change and nature restoration, Network whilst decarbonising transport and building • Digital Fibre Network resilient connections. • Maintain and help to grow the population Further detail about the priorities for this area is by taking a positive approach to rural contained in Annex C. Further details of national development that strengthens networks of developments are contained in Annex B. communities. • Support local economic development by making sustainable use of the areas’ world- class environmental assets to innovate and lead greener growth. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 27 North Legend Strategic connection Blue economy Transmission infrastructure 2 National Developments 2 Pumped Hydro Storage Scotland Wide Strategic jenewable Electricity ^eneration 3 and Transmission Infrastructure Scotland Wide Circular Economy Materials Management 4 Facilities Scotland Wide National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling 8 Network Scotland Wide 12 Digital Fibre Network Scotland Wide Indicative Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 28 North East and can form the basis of a transition to net zero. Some of our highest quality productive The north east is a centre for the skills and agricultural land is concentrated here, together expertise we will need to meet our climate with other land-based industries, and the change commitments. This area will evolve, economy benefits from a strong fishing industry, through a just transition, to move industry and alongside its globally significant energy sector. business away from the oil and gas sector The dominance of these sectors, together with towards a cleaner, greener future. Rich in natural wider changes including from the pandemic, assets, this area, along with the wider Moray European Union (EU) Exit and global markets, and Cromarty Firths, has built on its oil and means that economic diversification and gas experience to pioneer new technologies. repurposing of buildings and infrastructure will This makes it a uniquely investable proposition be key priorities. that could benefit Scotland as a whole. We can build on the area’s experience to find innovative solutions to climate change. Priorities This part of Scotland will play a crucial role in Emissions generated from this area arise mainly achieving Just Transition to net zero. By guiding from transport, industrial and commercial activity RSS and LDPs in this area, our strategy aims to: and domestic properties, with land use and forestry providing carbon sequestration. Car • Plan infrastructure and investment to support ownership is particularly high in Aberdeenshire. the transition from oil and gas to net zero Significant parts of the coast will be vulnerable to whilst protecting and enhancing blue and future climate impacts. green infrastructure and decarbonising connectivity. This area is amongst the most prosperous parts • Focus on continued regeneration through of Scotland, but has experienced significant the principles of local living and 20 minute economic challenges in recent years and has neighbourhoods to sustain the skilled pockets of deprivation. The area comprises a workforce and improve local liveability. mix of rural and urban communities, with the city of Aberdeen and a surrounding network of towns • Support continued economic diversification including Huntly, Fraserburgh, Peterhead, Ellon, and innovation. Inverurie and Stonehaven, and significant rural The following national developments will also areas including countryside around Aberdeen support delivery of the spatial strategy for this city. Whilst parts of the area have experienced area: population decline, several settlements around Aberdeen have grown. Links from Aberdeenshire • Pumped Hydro Storage to communities in Moray, Angus and Tayside are • Strategic Renewable Electricity Generation also important. and Transmission Infrastructure Affordability and choice of homes is acute • Circular Economy Material Management across the area, especially within Aberdeen. Facilities The growing proportion of retirees in • Urban Mass/Rapid Transit Networks Aberdeenshire presents a further challenge to housing and service delivery. There are lower • National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling levels of educational attainment and limited Network access to services for communities along the • Digital Fibre Network Aberdeenshire and Moray coast. Many of these places will benefit from further regeneration that • Aberdeen Harbour builds on their identity and natural assets. • Industrial Green Transition Zones The excellent quality of the built environment, Further detail about the priorities for this area is natural assets and cultural heritage already contained in Annex C. Further details of national contribute to health and wellbeing in the area developments are contained in Annex B. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 29 North East Legend Strategic maritime routes Strategic connection Blue economy 1ë Transmission infrastructure 14 6 National Developments 2 Pumped Hydro Storage Scotland Wide Strategic Renewable Electricity Generation 3 and Transmission Infrastructure Scotland Wide Circular Economy Materials Management 4 Facilities Scotland Wide 1ë 6 Urban Mass/Rapid Transit Networks Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling 8 Network Scotland Wide 12 Digital Fibre Network Scotland Wide 14 Aberdeen Harbour 1ë Industrial Green Transition Zones Indicative Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 30 Central and expected population growth in parts of the Edinburgh city region. The broad pattern is We will only meet our climate change repeated for children living in poverty, who are commitments if we make significant changes to more likely to live in the Glasgow city region. the densely populated central belt of Scotland. Across the area as a whole, however, there are Our urban communities will play a critical role in localised areas of high and low deprivation. reducing the emissions generated by the way we live our lives. As a nation we have a particular obligation to do more to tackle the concentration of poor This area includes the Glasgow, Edinburgh, health outcomes in west central Scotland. Action Stirling, Dundee and Perth city regions as well as is needed to reduce inequality and improve networks of towns and smaller settlements, and health and wellbeing so that everyone is able more rural surroundings. to thrive. Better places can do more to support Many of our largest emitters of greenhouse lifelong health and wellbeing by providing gas emissions are located in this area, warm homes that are connected to services. including Grangemouth where industrial Access to quality greenspace and nature-based activity is concentrated, providing high value solutions can help to mitigate health inequalities manufacturing and employment, and playing and improve physical and mental health, by a key role in our resilience. Other key sources providing opportunities for play, socialising, include industrial, manufacturing and waste relaxation and physical activity. Developing management sites and facilities. Overall our communities to promote local living and emissions from domestic properties and 20 minute neighbourhoods can help reduce transport are high as a result of the area’s inequalities in health. The frequency of urban car population density and the scale of daily use can be reduced by improving local liveability movement within and between city regions. The and improved access to facilities, helping to growing risk of flooding could have significant reduce emissions and air pollution. Access to impacts in the future, as many key settlements health and social care facilities will need to be and economic assets are located on the Clyde, built into our future places and can benefit from Forth and Tay estuaries. continuing investment in digital infrastructure and innovation. We need to work together to decarbonise buildings and transport and tackle congestion, Household projections show there will be a make more efficient use of existing land and continuing demand for more homes across the buildings, generate renewable energy and most urban parts of Scotland. There has been a establish supporting electricity and heat strong market, high levels of housebuilding and networks and create more inclusive, greener and pressure on infrastructure in some ‘hot spots’ sustainable places that will stand the test of time. including the Edinburgh city region, Stirling and By weaving blue and green infrastructure across Falkirk, and Perth. In contrast, despite good our urban fabric we can ensure that nature connections and infrastructure capacity, it can and the outdoors are accessible to everyone, be more challenging to encourage the market supporting lifelong health and wellbeing and to deliver new homes particularly in parts of the creating places that are more resilient to west where unemployment is also higher. flooding. There are also inequalities across each of There are significant social and economic the city regions, with local concentrations of differences across the area – at a broad scale economic deprivation and many former coalfield there are relatively high concentrations of poor communities. Overall, economic performance is health, child poverty, economic disadvantage higher in Edinburgh and Glasgow and lower in and population decline in parts of the Glasgow surrounding areas including Inverclyde, Ayrshire, city region contrasting with strong demand along parts of the Clyde Coast and Lanarkshire. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 31 The diverse business base reflects nationally Priorities important sectors including financial services, A coherent strategy that focuses on climate business administration, life sciences, change and responds to the challenges of the distribution and transport, retail and commercial, pandemic will drive forward change to tackle and manufacturing and production. City centres inequalities and build a new, greener, future for are experiencing significant challenges, caused this part of the country. By guiding RSS and or accelerated by the pandemic, but each LDPs in this area, our strategy aims to: retain a strong character and distinctive identity, • Provide net zero energy solutions including offering opportunities for new business, homes, extended heat networks and improved energy and services. Similar issues apply to the towns efficiency, together with urban greening and across this area. improved low carbon transport. A wellbeing economy goes beyond strategic • Pioneer low carbon, resilient urban living investment sites to link more closely with by rolling out networks of 20 minute the wellbeing of communities and their local neighbourhoods, future proofing city and environments. It will be critical to recognise town centres, accelerating urban greening, the importance of anchor institutions who can investing in net zero homes, and managing support local investment in our places and development on the edge of settlements. natural and historic assets, provide education, • Target economic investment and build employment and other services, and act as community wealth to overcome disadvantage community hubs. Significant investment in our and support a greener wellbeing economy. health and social care, justice and learning estates will continue to provide important The following national developments will also sources of employment and income for smaller support delivery of the spatial strategy for this scale local businesses. area: • Pumped Hydro Storage Around the area’s settlements there are many • Strategic Renewable Electricity Generation high quality environments, from World Heritage and Transmission Infrastructure Sites, historic burghs and conservation areas to protected biodiversity sites of international • Circular Economy Material Management importance, ancient woodlands and areas of Facilities high landscape quality, including the coastline, • Urban Sustainable, Blue and Green Drainage country and national parks, and canals. This Solutions brings opportunities for outdoor recreation within • Urban Mass/Rapid Transit Networks a short distance of the majority of Scotland’s population. • Central Scotland Green Network • National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling The coast is an integral part of the area’s Network identity, combining natural and cultural heritage • Edinburgh Waterfront and acting as a focus for investment and regeneration. We have made progress in • Dundee Waterfront restoring and reusing areas that were historically • Digital Fibre Network a focus for heavy industry and mining, leaving • Clyde Mission a legacy of disused sites and areas blighted by dereliction. Key sites for further investment • Industrial Green Transition Zones include urban waterfronts and former industrial • Hunterston Strategic Asset sites where existing infrastructure can be • High Speed Rail reused to support the transition to a low carbon economy. Further detail about the priorities for this area is contained in Annex C. Further details of national developments are contained in Annex B. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 32 Central Legend Strategic maritime routes Strategic connection Blue economy National Developments 2 Pumped Hydro Storage Scotland Wide Strategic Renewable Electricity Generation 3 and Transmission Infrastructure Scotland Wide Circular Economy Materials Management 15 4 Facilities Scotland Wide Urban Sustainable, Blue and Green Surface 5 Water Management Solutions Edinburgh and Glasgow 6 Urban Mass¹Rapid Transit Networks Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow 7 Central Scotland Green Network 7 Mapping is indicative 10 National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling 8 Network Scotland Wide 1 5 9 Edinburgh Waterfront 9 5,6 18 13 5,6 10 Dundee Waterfront 7 7 16 12 Digital Fibre Network Scotland Wide 18 13 Clyde Mission 15 Industrial Green Transition Zones 16 Hunterston Strategic Asset 18 High Speed Rail Indicative Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 33 South Working with communities to find new ways of rural living that are consistent with climate The South of Scotland is strategically important change will be a challenge for this part of with a strong sense of identity centred on Scotland, given the relatively high levels of networks of towns and villages, supported dependence on the car, limited public transport, by distinctive landscapes and coasts. This housing affordability challenges and the is a place with a rich cultural heritage and dispersed population. exceptional environmental assets and natural resources, such as the Galloway and Southern Despite having high levels of wellbeing and Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere and Galloway quality of life, population decline is projected to Forest Dark Sky Park. This area is ambitious for continue in some regions to the west of the area, positive change in the coming years, and the with fewer younger people and more retired immediate work to recover from the pandemic people living in the area in the future. Economic will form the basis of a longer term plan to diversification will help to address dependence respond to the challenges of climate change on low wage and public sector employment. and support nature restoration and recovery. Settlements across this area provide services Priorities to the surrounding rural communities. Towns Our strategy aims to ensure that this part of are well placed to be models of sustainable Scotland fulfils its potential. There is significant living, with many undergoing regeneration. potential for the area to develop and increase Larger settlements include Dumfries, Stranraer, recognition of it as a place to live, work and Galashiels, Hawick, with a network of towns visit. By guiding RSS and LDPs in this area, our and villages throughout Dumfries and Galloway strategy aims to: and the Scottish Borders. The area extends • Protect environmental assets and stimulate northwards to include Ayrshire towns such as investment in natural and engineered solutions Ayr, Girvan, Dalmellington and Cumnock in the to climate change and nature restoration, west, as well as towards the southern rural parts whilst decarbonising transport and building of East Lothian in the east and parts of South resilient physical and digital connections. Lanarkshire including Biggar and Moffat. Beyond the towns there are many small settlements and • Increase the population by improving local rural homes, farms and smallholdings. liveability, creating a low carbon network of towns and supporting sustainable rural Cross border relationships are important in development. this area, together with strategic transport • Support local economic development whilst connections to England, Northern Ireland and making sustainable use of the area’s world- Ireland. class environmental assets to innovate and lead greener growth. Emissions in this area are moderate, with transport and industry emissions being partly offset by land use. The area has significant areas of woodland and peatland which act as a carbon sink and form the basis for future investment opportunities. The few sites that are significant sources of greenhouse gas emissions include industrial and commercial activities, including some food and drink processing facilities. Coastal erosion and flood risk is expected to be a significant challenge in the future, particularly where there is a risk of impacts on key transport corridors or settlements. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 34 The following national developments will also support delivery of the spatial strategy for this area: • Pumped Hydro Storage • Strategic Renewable Electricity Generation and Transmission Infrastructure • Circular Economy Material Management Facilities • National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling Network • Stranraer Gateway • Digital Fibre Network • Clyde Mission • Chapelcross Power Station Redevelopment • High Speed Rail Further detail about the priorities for this area is contained in Annex C. Further details of national developments are contained in Annex B. Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 35 South Legend Strategic maritime routes Strategic connection Blue economy National Developments 2 Pumped Hydro Storage Scotland Wide Strategic Renewable Electricity ]eneration 3 and Transmission Infrastructure Scotland Wide Circular Economy Materials Management 4 Facilities Scotland Wide 18 National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling 8 Network Scotland Wide 18 11 Stranraer ]ateway 12 Digital Fibre Network Scotland Wide 1¨ 1¨ Chapelcross Power Station Redeºelopment 11 18 High Speed Rail Indicative Part 1 – National Spatial Strategy National Planning Framework 4 36 Part 2 – National Planning Policy Sustainable Places Tackling the climate and nature crises Policy 1 When considering all development proposals Policy Principles significant weight will be given to the global climate and nature crises. Policy Intent: To encourage, promote and facilitate development that addresses the global Policy impact: climate emergency and nature crisis.  Just Transition Policy Outcomes:  Conserving and recycling assets • Zero carbon, nature positive places.  Local living  Compact urban growth Local Development Plans: LDPs must address the global climate emergency  Rebalanced development and nature crisis by ensuring the spatial strategy will reduce emissions and adapt to current and  Rural revitalisation future risks of climate change by promoting nature recovery and restoration in the area. Key policy connections: All other policies. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 37 Climate mitigation and adaptation Policy 2 a) Development proposals will be sited and Policy Principles designed to minimise lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions as far as possible. Policy Intent: b) Development proposals will be sited and To encourage, promote and facilitate designed to adapt to current and future risks development that minimises emissions and from climate change. adapts to the current and future impacts of climate change. c) Development proposals to retrofit measures to existing developments that reduce emissions Policy Outcomes: or support adaptation to climate change will • Emissions from development are be supported. minimised; and • Our places are more resilient to climate Policy impact: change impacts.  Just Transition  Conserving and recycling assets Local Development Plans: The LDP spatial strategy should be designed  Local living to reduce, minimise or avoid greenhouse gas emissions. The six spatial principles should  Compact urban growth form the basis of the spatial strategy, helping to  Rebalanced development guide development to, and create, sustainable locations. The strategy should be informed by an  Rural revitalisation understanding of the impacts of the proposals on greenhouse gas emissions. Key policy connections: LDPs should support adaptation to the current and future impacts of climate change by taking All other policies. into account climate risks, guiding development away from vulnerable areas, and enabling places to adapt to those risks. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 38 Biodiversity i. the proposal is based on an understanding of the existing characteristics of the Policy Principles site and its local, regional and national ecological context prior to development, Policy Intent: including the presence of any irreplaceable To protect biodiversity, reverse biodiversity habitats; loss, deliver positive effects from ii. wherever feasible, nature-based solutions development and strengthen nature have been integrated and made best use networks. of; iii. an assessment of potential negative effects Policy Outcomes: which should be fully mitigated in line with • Biodiversity is enhanced and the mitigation hierarchy prior to identifying better connected including through enhancements; strengthened nature networks and nature- iv. significant biodiversity enhancements are based solutions. provided, in addition to any proposed mitigation. This should include nature Local Development Plans: networks, linking to and strengthening LDPs should protect, conserve, restore and habitat connectivity within and beyond the enhance biodiversity in line with the mitigation development, secured within a reasonable hierarchy. They should also promote nature timescale and with reasonable certainty. recovery and nature restoration across the Management arrangements for their long- development plan area, including by: facilitating term retention and monitoring should be the creation of nature networks and strengthening included, wherever appropriate; and connections between them to support improved v. local community benefits of the biodiversity ecological connectivity; restoring degraded and/or nature networks have been habitats or creating new habitats; and considered. incorporating measures to increase biodiversity, including populations of priority species. c) Proposals for local development will include appropriate measures to conserve, restore and enhance biodiversity, in accordance with Policy 3 national and local guidance. Measures should a) Development proposals will contribute to the be proportionate to the nature and scale enhancement of biodiversity, including where of development. Applications for individual relevant, restoring degraded habitats and householder development, or which fall within building and strengthening nature networks scope of (b) above, are excluded from this and the connections between them. Proposals requirement. should also integrate nature-based solutions, where possible. d) Any potential adverse impacts, including cumulative impacts, of development proposals b) Development proposals for national or major on biodiversity, nature networks and the development, or for development that requires natural environment will be minimised through an Environmental Impact Assessment will only careful planning and design. This will take be supported where it can be demonstrated into account the need to reverse biodiversity that the proposal will conserve, restore loss, safeguard the ecosystem services that and enhance biodiversity, including nature the natural environment provides, and build networks so they are in a demonstrably resilience by enhancing nature networks and better state than without intervention. This will maximising the potential for restoration. include future management. To inform this, best practice assessment methods should be used. Proposals within these categories will demonstrate how they have met all of the following criteria: Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 39 Policy impact:  Just Transition  Conserving and recycling assets  Rebalanced development  Rural revitalisation Key policy connections: Tackling the climate and nature crises Climate mitigation and adaptation Natural places Soils Forestry, woodland and trees Green belts Coastal development Energy Design, quality and place Blue and green infrastructure Flood risk and water management Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 40 Natural places c) Development proposals that will affect a National Park, National Scenic Area, Site of Policy Principles Special Scientific Interest or a National Nature Reserve will only be supported where: Policy Intent: i. The objectives of designation and the To protect, restore and enhance natural overall integrity of the areas will not be assets making best use of nature-based compromised; or solutions. ii. Any significant adverse effects on the Policy Outcomes: qualities for which the area has been designated are clearly outweighed by • Natural places are protected and restored. social, environmental or economic benefits • Natural assets are managed in a of national importance. sustainable way that maintains and grows All Ramsar sites are also European sites and/ their essential benefits and services. or Sites of Special Scientific Interest and are extended protection under the relevant Local Development Plans: statutory regimes. LDPs will identify and protect locally, regionally, nationally and internationally important natural d) Development proposals that affect a site assets, on land and along coasts. The spatial designated as a local nature conservation strategy should safeguard them and take site or landscape area in the LDP will only be into account the objectives and level of supported where: their protected status in allocating land for i. Development will not have significant development. Spatial strategies should also adverse effects on the integrity of the better connect nature rich areas by establishing area or the qualities for which it has been and growing nature networks to help protect and identified; or restore the biodiversity, ecosystems and natural ii. Any significant adverse effects on the processes in their area. integrity of the area are clearly outweighed by social, environmental or economic Policy 4 benefits of at least local importance. a) Development proposals which by virtue e) The precautionary principle will be applied of type, location or scale will have an in accordance with relevant legislation and unacceptable impact on the natural Scottish Government guidance. environment, will not be supported. f) Development proposals that are likely to have b) Development proposals that are likely to have an adverse effect on species protected by a significant effect on an existing or proposed legislation will only be supported where the European site (Special Area of Conservation proposal meets the relevant statutory tests. If or Special Protection Areas) and are not there is reasonable evidence to suggest that directly connected with or necessary to their a protected species is present on a site or conservation management are required to be may be affected by a proposed development, subject to an “appropriate assessment” of the steps must be taken to establish its presence. implications for the conservation objectives. The level of protection required by legislation must be factored into the planning and design of development, and potential impacts must be fully considered prior to the determination of any application. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 41 g) Development proposals in areas identified as wild land in the Nature Scot Wild Land Key policy connections: Areas map will only be supported where the Tackling the climate and nature crises proposal: Climate mitigation and adaptation i. will support meeting renewable energy Biodiversity targets; or, Soils ii. is for small scale development directly linked to a rural business or croft, or is Forestry, woodland and trees required to support a fragile community in Historic assets and places a rural area. Green belts All such proposals must be accompanied by a wild land impact assessment which sets Coastal development out how design, siting, or other mitigation Energy measures have been and will be used to minimise significant impacts on the qualities of Design, quality and place the wild land, as well as any management and Blue and green infrastructure monitoring arrangements where appropriate. Play, recreation and sport Buffer zones around wild land will not be applied, and effects of development outwith Flood risk and water management wild land areas will not be a significant Rural development consideration. Tourism Policy impact:  Just Transition  Conserving and recycling assets  Rebalanced development  Rural revitalisation Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 42 Soils iii. The development of production and processing facilities associated with the Policy Principles land produce where no other local site is suitable; Policy Intent: iv. The generation of energy from renewable To protect carbon-rich soils, restore sources or the extraction of minerals and peatlands and minimise disturbance to soils there is secure provision for restoration; from development. and In all of the above exceptions, the layout and Policy Outcomes: design of the proposal minimises the amount • Valued soils are protected and restored. of protected land that is required. • Soils, including carbon-rich soils, are c) Development proposals on peatland, carbon- sequestering and storing carbon. rich soils and priority peatland habitat will only • Soils are healthy and provide essential be supported for: ecosystem services for nature, people i. Essential infrastructure and there is a and our economy. specific locational need and no other suitable site; Local Development Plans: ii. The generation of energy from renewable LDPs should protect locally, regionally, nationally sources that optimises the contribution and internationally valued soils, including land of of the area to greenhouse gas emissions lesser quality that is culturally or locally important reductions targets; for primary use. iii. Small-scale development directly linked to a rural business, farm or croft; Policy 5 iv. Supporting a fragile community in a rural or a) Development proposals will only be supported island area; or if they are designed and constructed: v. Restoration of peatland habitats. i. In accordance with the mitigation hierarchy d) Where development on peatland, carbon-rich by first avoiding and then minimising soils or priority peatland habitat is proposed, the amount of disturbance to soils on a detailed site specific assessment will be undeveloped land; and required to identify: ii. In a manner that protects soil from damage i. the baseline depth, habitat condition, including from compaction and erosion, quality and stability of carbon rich soils; and that minimises soil sealing. ii. the likely effects of the development on b) Development proposals on prime agricultural peatland, including on soil disturbance; land, or land of lesser quality that is culturally and or locally important for primary use, as iii. the likely net effects of the development on identified by the LDP, will only be supported climate emissions and loss of carbon. where it is for: i. Essential infrastructure and there is a specific locational need and no other suitable site; ii. Small-scale development directly linked to a rural business, farm or croft or for essential workers for the rural business to be able to live onsite; Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 43 This assessment should inform careful project design and ensure, in accordance Policy impact: with relevant guidance and the mitigation  Just Transition hierarchy, that adverse impacts are first  Conserving and recycling assets avoided and then minimised through best practice. A peat management plan  Rebalanced development will be required to demonstrate that this approach has been followed, alongside  Rural revitalisation other appropriate plans required for restoring and/ or enhancing the site into a functioning peatland system capable of achieving carbon Key policy connections: sequestration. Tackling the climate and nature crises e) Development proposals for new commercial Climate mitigation and adaptation peat extraction, including extensions to existing sites, will only be supported where: Biodiversity i. the extracted peat is supporting the Natural places Scottish whisky industry; Forestry, woodland and trees ii. there is no reasonable substitute; Historic assets and places iii. the area of extraction is the minimum necessary and the proposal retains an Energy in-situ residual depth of peat of at least Blue and green infrastructure 1 metre across the whole site, including Rural development drainage features; iv. the time period for extraction is the minimum necessary; and v. there is an agreed comprehensive site restoration plan which will progressively restore, over a reasonable timescale, the area of extraction to a functioning peatland system capable of achieving carbon sequestration. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 44 Forestry, woodland and trees c) Development proposals involving woodland removal will only be supported where they Policy Principles will achieve significant and clearly defined additional public benefits in accordance Policy Intent: with relevant Scottish Government policy To protect and expand forests, woodland on woodland removal. Where woodland is and trees. removed, compensatory planting will most likely be expected to be delivered. Policy Outcomes: d) Development proposals on sites which include • Existing woodlands and trees are an area of existing woodland or land identified protected, and cover is expanded. in the Forestry and Woodland Strategy as • Woodland and trees on development sites being suitable for woodland creation will only are sustainably managed. be supported where the enhancement and improvement of woodlands and the planting of new trees on the site (in accordance with Local Development Plans: the Forestry and Woodland Strategy) are LDPs should identify and protect existing integrated into the design. woodland and the potential for its enhancement or expansion to avoid habitat fragmentation and improve ecological connectivity, helping to support Policy impact: and expand nature networks. The spatial strategy  Just Transition should identify and set out proposals for forestry, woodlands and trees in the area, including their  Conserving and recycling assets development, protection and enhancement,  Rebalanced development resilience to climate change, and the expansion of  Rural revitalisation a range of types to provide multiple benefits. This will be supported and informed by an up to date Forestry and Woodland Strategy. Key policy connections: Policy 6 Tackling the climate and nature crises a) Development proposals that enhance, expand Climate mitigation and adaptation and improve woodland and tree cover will be Biodiversity supported. b) Development proposals will not be supported Natural places where they will result in: Soils i. Any loss of ancient woodlands, ancient and Historic assets and places veteran trees, or adverse impact on their Green belts ecological condition; ii. Adverse impacts on native woodlands, Energy hedgerows and individual trees of Design, quality and place high biodiversity value, or identified for Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods protection in the Forestry and Woodland Strategy; Heat and cooling iii. Fragmenting or severing woodland Blue and green infrastructure habitats, unless appropriate mitigation Play, recreation and sport measures are identified and implemented in line with the mitigation hierarchy; Flood risk and water management iv. Conflict with Restocking Direction, Health and safety Remedial Notice or Registered Notice to Tourism Comply issued by Scottish Forestry. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 45 Historic assets and places b) Development proposals for the demolition of listed buildings will not be supported Policy Principles unless it has been demonstrated that there are exceptional circumstances and that Policy Intent: all reasonable efforts have been made to To protect and enhance historic environment retain, reuse and/or adapt the listed building. assets and places, and to enable positive Considerations include whether the: change as a catalyst for the regeneration of i. building is no longer of special interest; places. ii. building is incapable of physical repair and re-use as verified through a detailed Policy Outcomes: structural condition survey report; • The historic environment is valued, iii. repair of the building is not economically protected, and enhanced, supporting the viable and there has been adequate transition to net zero and ensuring assets marketing for existing and/or new uses at a are resilient to current and future impacts price reflecting its location and condition for of climate change. a reasonable period to attract interest from • Redundant or neglected historic buildings potential restoring purchasers; or are brought back into sustainable and iv. demolition of the building is essential to productive uses. delivering significant benefits to economic • Recognise the social, environmental growth or the wider community. and economic value of the historic c) Development proposals for the reuse, environment, to our economy and cultural alteration or extension of a listed building will identity. only be supported where they will preserve its character, special architectural or historic Local Development Plans: interest and setting. Development proposals LDPs, including through their spatial strategies, affecting the setting of a listed building should support the sustainable management of should preserve its character, and its special the historic environment. They should identify, architectural or historic interest. protect and enhance valued historic assets and d) Development proposals in or affecting places. conservation areas will only be supported where the character and appearance of the Policy 7 conservation area and its setting is preserved a) Development proposals with a potentially or enhanced. Relevant considerations include significant impact on historic assets or places the: will be accompanied by an assessment which i. architectural and historic character of the is based on an understanding of the cultural area; significance of the historic asset and/or place. ii. existing density, built form and layout; and The assessment should identify the likely iii. context and siting, quality of design and visual or physical impact of any proposals suitable materials. for change, including cumulative effects and provide a sound basis for managing the e) Development proposals in conservation areas impacts of change. will ensure that existing natural and built features which contribute to the character Proposals should also be informed by national of the conservation area and its setting, policy and guidance on managing change in including structures, boundary walls, railings, the historic environment, and information held trees and hedges, are retained. within Historic Environment Records. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 46 f) Demolition of buildings in a conservation k) Development proposals at the coast edge or area which make a positive contribution to its that extend offshore will only be supported character will only be supported where it has where proposals do not significantly hinder been demonstrated that: the preservation objectives of Historic Marine i. reasonable efforts have been made to Protected Areas. retain, repair and reuse the building; l) Development proposals affecting a World ii. the building is of little townscape value; Heritage Site or its setting will only be iii. the structural condition of the building supported where their Outstanding Universal prevents its retention at a reasonable cost; Value is protected and preserved. or m)Development proposals which sensitively iv. the form or location of the building makes repair, enhance and bring historic buildings, its reuse extremely difficult. as identified as being at risk locally or on the g) Where demolition within a conservation area national Buildings at Risk Register, back into is to be followed by redevelopment, consent beneficial use will be supported. to demolish will only be supported when an n) Enabling development for historic environment acceptable design, layout and materials are assets or places that would otherwise be being used for the replacement development. unacceptable in planning terms, will only be h) Development proposals affecting scheduled supported when it has been demonstrated monuments will only be supported where: that the enabling development proposed is: i. direct impacts on the scheduled monument i. essential to secure the future of an historic are avoided; environment asset or place which is at risk of serious deterioration or loss; and ii. significant adverse impacts on the integrity of the setting of a scheduled monument are ii. the minimum necessary to secure the avoided; or restoration, adaptation and long-term future of the historic environment asset or place. iii. exceptional circumstances have been demonstrated to justify the impact on a The beneficial outcomes for the historic scheduled monument and its setting and environment asset or place should be secured impacts on the monument or its setting early in the phasing of the development, and have been minimised. will be ensured through the use of conditions and/or legal agreements. i) Development proposals affecting nationally important Gardens and Designed Landscapes o) Non-designated historic environment assets, will be supported where they protect, preserve places and their setting should be protected or enhance their cultural significance, and preserved in situ wherever feasible. character and integrity and where proposals Where there is potential for non-designated will not significantly impact on important views buried archaeological remains to exist below to, from and within the site, or its setting. a site, developers will provide an evaluation of the archaeological resource at an early j) Development proposals affecting nationally stage so that planning authorities can assess important Historic Battlefields will only impacts. Historic buildings may also have be supported where they protect and, archaeological significance which is not where appropriate, enhance their cultural understood and may require assessment. significance, key landscape characteristics, physical remains and special qualities. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 47 Where impacts cannot be avoided they should be minimised. Where it has been Key policy connections: demonstrated that avoidance or retention is Tackling the climate and nature crises not possible, excavation, recording, analysis, Climate mitigation and adaptation archiving, publication and activities to provide public benefit may be required through the Natural places use of conditions or legal/planning obligations. Forestry, woodland and trees When new archaeological discoveries are Green belts made during the course of development works, they must be reported to the planning Brownfield, vacant and derelict land and authority to enable agreement on appropriate empty buildings inspection, recording and mitigation measures. Coastal development Energy Policy impact: Design, quality and place  Just Transition Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods  Conserving and recycling assets Infrastructure first  Local living Quality homes  Compact urban growth Rural homes  Rebalanced development Blue and green infrastructure Flood risk and water management  Rural revitalisation Digital infrastructure Community wealth building City, town, local and commercial centres Rural development Tourism Culture and creativity Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 48 Green belts Policy 8 a) Development proposals within a green Policy Principles belt designated within the LDP will only be supported if: Policy Intent: i) they are for: To encourage, promote and facilitate • development associated with agriculture, compact urban growth and use the land woodland creation, forestry and existing around our towns and cities sustainably. woodland (including community Policy Outcomes: woodlands); • Development is directed to the right • residential accommodation required and locations, urban density is increased and designed for a key worker in a primary unsustainable growth is prevented. industry within the immediate vicinity of their place of employment where the • The character, landscape, natural setting presence of a worker is essential to the and identity of settlements is protected operation of the enterprise, or retired and enhanced. workers where there is no suitable • Nature networks are supported and alternative accommodation available; land is managed to help tackle climate • horticulture, including market gardening change. and directly connected retailing, as well as community growing; Local Development Plans: • outdoor recreation, play and sport LDPs should consider using green belts, to or leisure and tourism uses; and support their spatial strategy as a settlement developments that provide opportunities management tool to restrict development around for access to the open countryside towns and cities. (including routes for active travel and core paths); Green belts will not be necessary for most • flood risk management (such as settlements but may be zoned around development of blue and green settlements where there is a significant danger of infrastructure within a “drainage unsustainable growth in car-based commuting or catchment” to manage/mitigate flood risk suburbanisation of the countryside. and/or drainage issues); Green belts should be identified or reviewed • essential infrastructure or new cemetery as part of the preparation of LDPs. Boundary provision; changes may be made to accommodate • minerals operations and renewable planned growth, or to extend, or alter the area energy developments; covered as green belt. Detailed green belt • intensification of established uses, boundaries should be based on evidence and including extensions to an existing should be clearly identified in plans. building where that is ancillary to the main use; • the reuse, rehabilitation and conversion of historic environment assets; or • one-for-one replacements of existing permanent homes. and Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 49 ii) the following requirements are met: Key policy connections: • reasons are provided as to why a green belt location is essential and why it Tackling the climate and nature crises cannot be located on an alternative site Climate mitigation and adaptation outwith the green belt; Biodiversity • the purpose of the green belt at that Natural places location is not undermined; Forestry, woodland and trees • the proposal is compatible with the surrounding established countryside and Historic assets and places landscape character; Brownfield, vacant and derelict land and • the proposal has been designed to empty buildings ensure it is of an appropriate scale, Energy massing and external appearance, and uses materials that minimise visual Sustainable transport impact on the green belt as far as Design, quality and place possible; and Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods • there will be no significant long-term impacts on the environmental quality of Infrastructure first the green belt. Quality homes Rural homes Policy impact: Blue and green infrastructure  Just Transition Play, recreation and sport  Conserving and recycling assets Flood risk and water management  Local living Digital infrastructure  Compact urban growth Business and industry Rural development  Rebalanced development Retail  Rural revitalisation Tourism Minerals Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 50 Brownfield, vacant and derelict land c) Where land is known or suspected to be and empty buildings unstable or contaminated, development proposals will demonstrate that the land is, Policy Principles or can be made, safe and suitable for the proposed new use. Policy Intent: d) Development proposals for the reuse of To encourage, promote and facilitate the existing buildings will be supported, taking reuse of brownfield, vacant and derelict land into account their suitability for conversion and empty buildings, and to help reduce the to other uses. Given the need to conserve need for greenfield development. embodied energy, demolition will be regarded as the least preferred option. Policy Outcomes: • Development is directed to the right locations, maximising the use of existing Policy impact: assets and minimising additional land  Just Transition take.  Conserving and recycling assets • The contribution of brownfield land to nature recovery is recognised and  Local living opportunities for use as productive  Compact urban growth greenspace are realised where appropriate.  Rebalanced development • Derelict buildings and spaces are regenerated to improve wellbeing and transform our places. Key policy connections: Tackling the climate and nature crises Local Development Plans: Climate mitigation and adaptation LDPs should set out opportunities for the sustainable reuse of brownfield land including Historic assets and places vacant and derelict land and empty buildings. Zero waste Policy 9 Design, quality and place a) Development proposals that will result in Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods the sustainable reuse of brownfield land Infrastructure first including vacant and derelict land and buildings, whether permanent or temporary, Quality homes will be supported. In determining whether the Rural homes reuse is sustainable, the biodiversity value of Blue and green infrastructure brownfield land which has naturalised should be taken into account. Play, recreation and sport b) Proposals on greenfield sites will not be Health and safety supported unless the site has been allocated Business and industry for development or the proposal is explicitly supported by policies in the LDP. City, town, local and commercial centres Rural development Culture and creativity Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 51 Coastal development b) Development proposals in undeveloped coastal areas will only be supported where Policy Principles they: i. are necessary to support the blue Policy Intent: economy, net zero emissions or to To protect coastal communities and assets contribute to the economy or wellbeing and support resilience to the impacts of of communities whose livelihood depend climate change. on marine or coastal activities, or is for essential infrastructure, where there is Policy Outcomes: a specific locational need and no other • Coastal areas develop sustainably and suitable site; adapt to climate change. ii. do not result in the need for further coastal protection measures taking into account Local Development Plans: future sea level change; or increase the LDP spatial strategies should consider how risk to people of coastal flooding or coastal to adapt coastlines to the impacts of climate erosion, including through the loss of change. This should recognise that rising natural coastal defences including dune sea levels and more extreme weather events systems; and resulting from climate change will potentially iii. are anticipated to be supportable in the have a significant impact on coastal and long-term, taking into account projected islands areas, and take a precautionary climate change; or approach to flood risk including by inundation. iv. are designed to have a very short lifespan. Spatial strategies should reflect the diversity of coastal areas and opportunities to use nature- c) Development proposals for coastal defence based solutions to improve the resilience of measures will be supported if: coastal communities and assets. LDP spatial i. they are consistent with relevant coastal or strategies should identify areas of developed marine plans; and undeveloped coast and should align with ii. nature-based solutions are utilised and national, sectoral and regional marine plans. allow for managed future coastal change wherever practical; and Policy 10 iii. any in-perpetuity hard defense measures a) Development proposals in developed coastal can be demonstrated to be necessary to areas will only be supported where the protect essential assets. proposal: i. does not result in the need for further d) Where a design statement is submitted with coastal protection measures taking into any planning application that may impact account future sea level change; or on the coast it will take into account, as increase the risk to people of coastal appropriate, long-term coastal vulnerability flooding or coastal erosion, including and resilience. through the loss of natural coastal defences including dune systems; and ii. is anticipated to be supportable in the long- term, taking into account projected climate change. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 52 Policy impact:  Just Transition  Conserving and recycling assets  Local living  Compact urban growth  Rebalanced development  Rural revitalisation Key policy connections: Tackling the climate and nature crises Climate mitigation and adaptation Biodiversity Natural places Energy Design, quality and place Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods Infrastructure first Blue and green infrastructure Play, recreation and sport Flood risk and water management Rural development Tourism Aquaculture Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 53 Energy c) Development proposals will only be supported where they maximise net economic impact, Policy Principles including local and community socio-economic benefits such as employment, associated Policy Intent: business and supply chain opportunities. To encourage, promote and facilitate all d) Development proposals that impact on forms of renewable energy development international or national designations will be onshore and offshore. This includes energy assessed in relation to Policy 4. generation, storage, new and replacement transmission and distribution infrastructure e) In addition, project design and mitigation will and emerging low-carbon and zero demonstrate how the following impacts are emissions technologies including hydrogen addressed: and carbon capture utilisation and storage i. impacts on communities and individual (CCUS). dwellings, including, residential amenity, visual impact, noise and shadow flicker; Policy Outcomes: ii. significant landscape and visual impacts, • Expansion of renewable, low-carbon and recognising that such impacts are to be zero emissions technologies. expected for some forms of renewable energy. Where impacts are localised and/ Local Development Plans: or appropriate design mitigation has been LDPs should seek to realise their area’s full applied, they will generally be considered potential for electricity and heat from renewable, to be acceptable; low carbon and zero emission sources by iii. public access, including impact on long identifying a range of opportunities for energy distance walking and cycling routes and development. scenic routes; iv. impacts on aviation and defence interests Policy 11 including seismological recording; a) Development proposals for all forms of v. impacts on telecommunications and renewable, low-carbon and zero emissions broadcasting installations, particularly technologies will be supported. These include: ensuring that transmission links are not i. wind farms including repowering, compromised; extending, expanding and extending the vi. impacts on road traffic and on adjacent life of existing wind farms; trunk roads, including during construction; ii. enabling works, such as grid transmission vii. impacts on historic environment; and distribution infrastructure; viii. effects on hydrology, the water iii. energy storage, such as battery storage environment and flood risk; and pumped storage hydro; ix. biodiversity including impacts on birds; iv. small scale renewable energy generation x. impacts on trees, woods and forests; technology; xi. proposals for the decommissioning v. solar arrays; of developments, including ancillary vi. proposals associated with negative infrastructure, and site restoration; emissions technologies and carbon xii. the quality of site restoration plans capture; and including the measures in place to vii. proposals including co-location of these safeguard or guarantee availability of technologies. finances to effectively implement those plans; and b) Development proposals for wind farms in xiii. cumulative impacts. National Parks and National Scenic Areas will not be supported. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 54 In considering these impacts, significant weight will be placed on the contribution of Policy impact: the proposal to renewable energy generation  Just Transition targets and on greenhouse gas emissions  Conserving and recycling assets reduction targets. Grid capacity should not constrain renewable  Rebalanced development energy development. It is for developers to agree connections to the grid with the relevant network operator. In the case of proposals Key policy connections: for grid infrastructure, consideration should Tackling the climate and nature crises be given to underground connections where possible. Climate mitigation and adaptation f) Consents for development proposals may be Biodiversity time-limited. Areas identified for wind farms Natural places are, however, expected to be suitable for use Forestry, woodland and trees in perpetuity. Soils Historic assets and places Green belts Infrastructure first Heat and cooling Community wealth building Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 55 Zero waste i. provision to maximise waste reduction and waste separation at source, and Policy Principles ii. measures to minimise the cross- contamination of materials, through Policy Intent: appropriate segregation and storage of To encourage, promote and facilitate waste; convenient access for the collection development that is consistent with the of waste; and recycling and localised waste waste hierarchy. management facilities. Policy Outcomes: d) Development proposals for waste infrastructure and facilities (except landfill • The reduction and reuse of materials in and energy from waste facilities) will be only construction is prioritised. supported where: • Infrastructure for zero waste and to i. there are no unacceptable impacts develop Scotland’s circular economy is (including cumulative) on the residential delivered in appropriate locations. amenity of nearby dwellings, local communities; the transport network; and Local Development Plans: natural and historic environment assets; LDPs should identify appropriate locations for ii. environmental (including cumulative) new waste management infrastructure to support impacts relating to noise, dust, smells, pest the circular economy and meet identified needs control and pollution of land, air and water in a way that moves waste as high up the waste are acceptable; hierarchy as possible. iii. any greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the processing and transportation Policy 12 of waste to and from the facility are a) Development proposals will seek to reduce, minimised; reuse, or recycle materials in line with the iv. an adequate buffer zone between sites and waste hierarchy. sensitive uses such as homes is provided b) Development proposals will be supported taking account of the various environmental where they: effects likely to arise; i. reuse existing buildings and infrastructure; v. a restoration and aftercare scheme ii. minimise demolition and salvage materials (including appropriate financial for reuse; mechanisms) is provided and agreed to iii. minimise waste, reduce pressure on ensure the site is restored; virgin resources and enable building vi. consideration has been given to co-location materials, components and products to be with end users of outputs. disassembled, and reused at the end of e) Development proposals for new or extended their useful life; landfill sites will only be supported if: iv. use materials with the lowest forms of i. there is demonstrable need for additional embodied emissions, such as recycled and landfill capacity taking into account natural construction materials; Scottish Government objectives on waste v. use materials that are suitable for reuse management; and with minimal reprocessing. ii. waste heat and/or electricity generation c) Development proposals that are likely to is included. Where this is considered generate waste when operational, including impractical, evidence and justification will residential, commercial, and industrial require to be provided. properties, will set out how much waste the proposal is expected to generate and how it will be managed including: Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 56 f) Proposals for the capture, distribution or use of gases captured from landfill sites or waste Policy impact: water treatment plant will be supported.  Just Transition g) Development proposals for energy-from-waste  Conserving and recycling assets facilities will not be supported except under limited circumstances where a national or  Compact urban growth local need has been sufficiently demonstrated (e.g. in terms of capacity need or carbon benefits) as part of a strategic approach to Key policy connections: residual waste management and where the Tackling the climate and nature crises proposal: Climate mitigation and adaptation i. is consistent with climate change mitigation targets and in line with circular economy Brownfield, vacant and derelict land and principles; empty buildings ii. can demonstrate that a functional heat Energy network can be created and provided Infrastructure first within the site for appropriate infrastructure to allow a heat network to be developed Heat and cooling and potential local consumers have been Community wealth building identified; Minerals iii. is supported by a heat and power plan, which demonstrates how energy recovered from the development would be used to provide electricity and heat and where consideration is given to methods to reduce carbon emissions of the facility (for example through carbon capture and storage) iv. complies with relevant guidelines published by Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA); and v. has supplied an acceptable decarbonisation strategy aligned with Scottish Government decarbonisation goals. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 57 Sustainable transport mitigation proposed to inform the plan’s infrastructure first approach. Where there is likely Policy Principles to be an impact on the trunk road or rail network, early engagement with Transport Scotland is Policy Intent: required. To encourage, promote and facilitate developments that prioritise walking, Policy 13 wheeling, cycling and public transport for a) Proposals to improve, enhance or provide everyday travel and reduce the need to active travel infrastructure, public transport travel unsustainably. infrastructure or multi-modal hubs will be supported. This includes proposals: Policy Outcomes: i. for electric vehicle charging infrastructure • Investment in transport infrastructure and electric vehicle forecourts, especially supports connectivity and reflects place- where fuelled by renewable energy. based approaches and local living. ii. which support a mode shift of freight from • More, better, safer and more road to more sustainable modes, including inclusive active and sustainable travel last-mile delivery. opportunities. iii. that build in resilience to the effects of • Developments are in locations which climate change and where appropriate support sustainable travel. incorporate blue and green infrastructure and nature rich habitats (such as natural Local Development Plans: planting or water systems). LDPs should prioritise locations for future b) Development proposals will be supported development that can be accessed by where it can be demonstrated that the sustainable modes. The spatial strategy should transport requirements generated have reflect the sustainable travel hierarchy and been considered in line with the sustainable sustainable investment hierarchy by making best travel and investment hierarchies and where use of existing infrastructure and services. appropriate they: LDPs should promote a place-based approach i. Provide direct, easy, segregated and to consider how to reduce car-dominance. safe links to local facilities via walking, This could include low traffic schemes, shared wheeling and cycling networks before transport options, designing–in speed controls, occupation; bus/cycle priority, pedestrianisation and ii. Will be accessible by public transport, minimising space dedicated to car parking. ideally supporting the use of existing Consideration should be given to the type, mix services; and use of development; local living and 20 iii. Integrate transport modes; minute neighbourhoods; car ownership levels; iv. Provide low or zero-emission vehicle the accessibility of proposals and allocations and cycle charging points in safe and by sustainable modes; and the accessibility for convenient locations, in alignment with users of all abilities. building standards; LDPs should be informed by an appropriate v. Supply safe, secure and convenient cycle and effective transport appraisal undertaken in parking to meet the needs of users and line with relevant transport appraisal guidance. which is more conveniently located than Plans should be informed by evidence of the car parking; area’s transport infrastructure capacity, and an vi. Are designed to incorporate safety appraisal of the spatial strategy on the transport measures including safe crossings for network. This should identify any potential walking and wheeling and reducing the cumulative transport impacts and deliverable number and speed of vehicles; Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 58 vii. Have taken into account, at the earliest While new junctions on trunk roads are not stage of design, the transport needs normally acceptable, the case for a new of diverse groups including users with junction will be considered by Transport protected characteristics to ensure the Scotland where significant economic or safety, ease and needs of all users; and regeneration benefits can be demonstrated. viii. Adequately mitigate any impact on local New junctions will only be considered if public access routes. they are designed in accordance with relevant guidance and where there will be no c) Where a development proposal will generate adverse impact on road safety or operational a significant increase in the number of person performance. trips, a transport assessment will be required to be undertaken in accordance with the relevant guidance. Policy impact: d) Development proposals for significant travel  Just Transition generating uses will not be supported in  Conserving and recycling assets locations which would increase reliance on the private car, taking into account the  Local living specific characteristics of the area.  Compact urban growth e) Development proposals which are ambitious in terms of low/no car parking will be  Rebalanced development supported, particularly in urban locations that are well-served by sustainable transport  Rural revitalisation modes and where they do not create barriers to access by disabled people. f) Development proposals for significant Key policy connections: travel generating uses, or smaller-scale Tackling the climate and nature crises developments where it is important to monitor Climate mitigation and adaptation travel patterns resulting from the development, will only be supported if they are Design, quality and place accompanied by a Travel Plan with supporting Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods planning conditions/obligations. Travel Infrastructure first plans should set out clear arrangements for delivering against targets, as well as Quality homes monitoring and evaluation. Rural homes g) Development proposals that have the Blue and green infrastructure potential to affect the operation and safety of the Strategic Transport Network will be Business and industry fully assessed to determine their impact. City, town, local and commercial centres Where it has been demonstrated that existing Retail infrastructure does not have the capacity to accommodate a development without adverse Rural development impacts on safety or unacceptable impacts Tourism on operational performance, the cost of the mitigation measures required to ensure the continued safe and effective operation of the network should be met by the developer. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 59 Liveable Places Design, quality and place Policy 14 a) Development proposals will be designed to Policy Principles improve the quality of an area whether in urban or rural locations and regardless of Policy Intent: scale. To encourage, promote and facilitate well designed development that makes b) Development proposals will be supported successful places by taking a design-led where they are consistent with the six qualities approach and applying the Place Principle. of successful places: Healthy: Supporting the prioritisation of Policy Outcomes: women’s safety and improving physical and • Quality places, spaces and environments. mental health. • Places that consistently deliver healthy, Pleasant: Supporting attractive natural and pleasant, distinctive, connected, built spaces. sustainable and adaptable qualities. Connected: Supporting well connected networks that make moving around easy Local Development Plans: and reduce car dependency LDPs should be place-based and created in Distinctive: Supporting attention to detail line with the Place Principle. The spatial strategy of local architectural styles and natural should be underpinned by the six qualities of landscapes to be interpreted, literally or successful places. LDPs should provide clear creatively, into designs to reinforce identity. expectations for design, quality and place taking account of the local context, characteristics Sustainable: Supporting the efficient use and connectivity of the area. They should also of resources that will allow people to live, identify where more detailed design guidance play, work and stay in their area, ensuring is expected, for example, by way of design climate resilience, and integrating nature frameworks, briefs, masterplans and design positive, biodiversity solutions. codes. Adaptable: Supporting commitment to investing in the long-term value of Planning authorities should use the Place buildings, streets and spaces by allowing Standard tool in the preparation of LDPs and for flexibility so that they can be changed design guidance to engage with communities quickly to accommodate different uses as and other stakeholders. They should also well as maintained over time. where relevant promote its use in early design discussions on planning applications. Further details on delivering the six qualities of successful places are set out in Annex D. c) Development proposals that are poorly designed, detrimental to the amenity of the surrounding area or inconsistent with the six qualities of successful places, will not be supported. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 60 Policy impact:  Just Transition  Conserving and recycling assets  Local living  Compact urban growth  Rebalanced development  Rural revitalisation Key policy connections: All other policies. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 61 Local Living and 20 minute with the surrounding area, including local neighbourhoods access to: • sustainable modes of transport including Policy Principles local public transport and safe, high quality walking, wheeling and cycling networks; Policy Intent: • employment; To encourage, promote and facilitate the • shopping; application of the Place Principle and create connected and compact neighbourhoods • health and social care facilities; where people can meet the majority of their • childcare, schools and lifelong learning daily needs within a reasonable distance of opportunities; their home, preferably by walking, wheeling or • playgrounds and informal play cycling or using sustainable transport options. opportunities, parks, green streets and spaces, community gardens, opportunities Policy Outcomes: for food growth and allotments, sport and • Places are planned to improve local living recreation facilities; in a way that reflects local circumstances. • publicly accessible toilets; • A network of high-quality, accessible, • affordable and accessible housing options, mixed-use neighbourhoods which support ability to age in place and housing health and wellbeing, reduce inequalities diversity. and are resilient to the effects of climate change. Policy impact: • New and existing communities are planned together with homes and the key local  Just Transition infrastructure including schools, community  Conserving and recycling assets centres, local shops, greenspaces, health  Local living and social care, digital and sustainable transport links.  Compact urban growth  Rebalanced development Local Development Plans:  Rural revitalisation LDPs should support local living, including 20 minute neighbourhoods within settlements, through the spatial strategy, associated site Key policy connections: briefs and masterplans. The approach should take into account the local context, consider Tackling the climate and nature crises the varying settlement patterns and reflect the Climate mitigation and adaptation particular characteristics and challenges faced Sustainable transport by each place. Communities and businesses will have an important role to play in informing this, Design, quality and place helping to strengthen local living through their Infrastructure first engagement with the planning system. Quality homes Policy 15 Blue and green infrastructure a) Development proposals will contribute Play, recreation and sport to local living including, where relevant, 20 minute neighbourhoods. To establish Community wealth building this, consideration will be given to existing City, town, local and commercial centres settlement pattern, and the level and quality of interconnectivity of the proposed development Retail Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 62 Quality homes reflect locally specific market circumstances and delivery approaches. Diverse needs and delivery Policy Principles models should be taken into account across all areas, as well as allocating land to ensure Policy Intent: provision of accommodation for Gypsy/Travellers To encourage, promote and facilitate the and Travelling Showpeople where need is delivery of more high quality, affordable and identified. sustainable homes, in the right locations, providing choice across tenures that meet The LDP delivery programme is expected to the diverse housing needs of people and establish a deliverable housing land pipeline communities across Scotland. for the Local Housing Land Requirement. The purpose of the pipeline is to provide a Policy Outcomes: transparent view of the phasing of housing • Good quality homes are at the heart allocations so that interventions, including of great places and contribute to infrastructure, that enable delivery can be strengthening the health and wellbeing of planned: it is not to stage permissions. communities. Representing when land will be brought forward, phasing is expected across the short (1-3 years), • Provision of land in the right locations to medium (4-6 years) and long-term (7-10 years). accommodate future need and demand Where sites earlier in the deliverable housing for new homes, supported by the land pipeline are not delivering as programmed, appropriate infrastructure. and alternative delivery mechanisms identified • More energy efficient, net zero emissions in the delivery programme are not practical, homes, supporting a greener, fairer and measures should be considered to enable earlier more inclusive wellbeing economy and delivery of long-term deliverable sites (7-10 community wealth building, tackling both years) or areas identified for new homes beyond fuel and child poverty. 10 years. De-allocations should be considered where sites are no longer deliverable. The annual Housing Land Audit will monitor the Local Development Plans: delivery of housing land to inform the pipeline LDPs are expected to identify a Local Housing and the actions to be taken in the delivery Land Requirement for the area they cover. This programme. is to meet the duty for a housing target and to represent how much land is required. To Policy 16 promote an ambitious and plan-led approach, the Local Housing Land Requirement is a) Development proposals for new homes on expected to exceed the 10 year Minimum All- land allocated for housing in LDPs will be Tenure Housing Land Requirement (MATHLR) supported. set out in Annex E. b) Development proposals that include 50 or more homes, and smaller developments if Deliverable land should be allocated to meet required by local policy or guidance, should the 10 year Local Housing Land Requirement in be accompanied by a Statement of Community locations that create quality places for people to Benefit. The statement will explain the live. Areas that may be suitable for new homes contribution of the proposed development to: beyond 10 years are also to be identified. The i. meeting local housing requirements, location of where new homes are allocated including affordable homes; should be consistent with local living including, where relevant, 20 minute neighbourhoods and ii. providing or enhancing local infrastructure, an infrastructure first approach. In rural and facilities and services; and island areas, authorities are encouraged to iii. improving the residential amenity of the set out tailored approaches to housing which surrounding area. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 63 c) Development proposals for new homes The contribution is to be provided in that improve affordability and choice by accordance with local policy or guidance. being adaptable to changing and diverse f) Development proposals for new homes on needs, and which address identified gaps land not allocated for housing in the LDP will in provision, will be supported. This could only be supported in limited circumstances include: where: i. self-provided homes; i. the proposal is supported by an agreed ii. accessible, adaptable and wheelchair timescale for build-out; and accessible homes; ii. the proposal is otherwise consistent with iii. build to rent; the plan spatial strategy and other relevant iv. affordable homes; policies including local living and 20 minute v. a range of size of homes such as those neighbourhoods; for larger families; iii. and either: vi. homes for older people, including · delivery of sites is happening earlier supported accommodation, care homes than identified in the deliverable housing and sheltered housing; land pipeline. This will be determined vii. homes for people undertaking further and by reference to two consecutive years higher education; and of the Housing Land Audit evidencing viii. homes for other specialist groups such as substantial delivery earlier than pipeline service personnel. timescales and that general trend being sustained; or d) Development proposals for public or private, permanent or temporary, Gypsy/Travellers · the proposal is consistent with policy on sites and family yards and Travelling rural homes; or Showpeople yards, including on land not · the proposal is for smaller scale specifically allocated for this use in the opportunities within an existing LDP, should be supported where a need settlement boundary; or is identified and the proposal is otherwise consistent with the plan spatial strategy and · the proposal is for the delivery of less other relevant policies, including human rights than 50 affordable homes as part of and equality. a local authority supported affordable housing plan. e) Development proposals for new homes will be supported where they make provision g) Householder development proposals will be for affordable homes to meet an identified supported where they: need. Proposals for market homes will only i. do not have a detrimental impact on the be supported where the contribution to character or environmental quality of the the provision of affordable homes on a site home and the surrounding area in terms of will be at least 25% of the total number of size, design and materials; and homes, unless the LDP sets out locations or ii. do not have a detrimental effect on circumstances where: the neighbouring properties in terms i. a higher contribution is justified by of physical impact, overshadowing or evidence of need, or overlooking. ii. a lower contribution is justified, for example, h) Householder development proposals that by evidence of impact on viability, provide adaptations in response to risks from where proposals are small in scale, or to a changing climate, or relating to people incentivise particular types of homes that with health conditions that lead to particular are needed to diversify the supply, such as accommodation needs will be supported. self-build or wheelchair accessible homes. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 64 Policy impact:  Just Transition  Conserving and recycling assets  Local living  Compact urban growth  Rebalanced development  Rural revitalisation Key policy connections: Tackling the climate and nature crises Climate mitigation and adaptation Green belts Brownfield, vacant and derelict land and empty buildings Sustainable transport Design, quality and place Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods Infrastructure first Heat and cooling Blue and green infrastructure Play, recreation and sport Rural homes Health and safety City, town, local and commercial centres Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 65 Rural homes Policy 17 a) Development proposals for new homes in Policy Principles rural areas will be supported where the development is suitably scaled, sited and Policy Intent: designed to be in keeping with the character To encourage, promote and facilitate the of the area and the development: delivery of more high quality, affordable i. is on a site allocated for housing within and sustainable rural homes in the right the LDP; locations. ii. reuses brownfield land where a return to Policy Outcomes: a natural state has not or will not happen without intervention; • Improved choice of homes across tenures so that identified local needs of people iii. reuses a redundant or unused building; and communities in rural and island areas iv. is an appropriate use of a historic are met. environment asset or is appropriate enabling development to secure the • Homes are provided that support future of historic environment assets; sustainable rural communities and are linked with service provision. v. is demonstrated to be necessary to support the sustainable management of a • The distinctive character, sense of place viable rural business or croft, and there is and natural and cultural assets of rural an essential need for a worker (including areas are safeguarded and enhanced. those taking majority control of a farm business) to live permanently at or near their place of work; Local Development Plans: LDPs should be informed by an understanding vi. is for a single home for the retirement of population change over time, locally specific succession of a viable farm holding; needs and market circumstances in rural and vii. is for the subdivision of an existing island areas. residential dwelling; the scale of which is in keeping with the character and LDPs should set out tailored approaches to rural infrastructure provision in the area; or housing and where relevant include proposals viii. reinstates a former dwelling house or is for future population growth – including a one-for-one replacement of an existing provision for small-scale housing such as permanent house. crofts and woodland crofts and the appropriate resettlement of previously inhabited areas. b) Development proposals for new homes in The Scottish Government’s 6 fold Urban Rural rural areas will consider how the development Classification 2020 should be used to identify will contribute towards local living and take remote rural areas. Plans should reflect locally into account identified local housing needs appropriate delivery approaches. Previously (including affordable housing), economic inhabited areas that are suitable for resettlement considerations and the transport needs of should be identified in the spatial strategy. the development as appropriate for the rural location. c) Development proposals for new homes in remote rural areas will be supported where the proposal: i. supports and sustains existing fragile communities; ii. supports identified local housing outcomes; and Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 66 iii. is suitable in terms of location, access, and environmental impact. Key policy connections: d) Development proposals for new homes Tackling the climate and nature crises that support the resettlement of previously Climate mitigation and adaptation inhabited areas will be supported where the Natural places proposal: i. is in an area identified in the LDP as Historic assets and places suitable for resettlement; Green belts ii. is designed to a high standard; Brownfield, vacant and derelict land and iii. responds to its rural location; and empty buildings iv. is designed to minimise greenhouse gas Coastal development emissions as far as possible. Sustainable transport Policy impact: Design, quality and place  Just Transition Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods  Conserving and recycling assets Infrastructure first Quality homes  Local living City, town, local and commercial centres  Compact urban growth Rural development  Rebalanced development Tourism  Rural revitalisation Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 67 Infrastructure first Plans should align with relevant national, regional and local infrastructure plans and policies Policy Principles and take account of the Scottish Government infrastructure investment hierarchy and Policy Intent: sustainable travel and investment hierarchies in To encourage, promote and facilitate developing the spatial strategy. Consistent early an infrastructure first approach to land engagement and collaboration between relevant use planning, which puts infrastructure stakeholders will better inform decisions on land considerations at the heart of placemaking. use and investment. Policy Outcomes: Policy 18 • Infrastructure considerations are integral a) Development proposals which provide (or to development planning and decision contribute to) infrastructure in line with that making and potential impacts on identified as necessary in LDPs and their infrastructure and infrastructure needs delivery programmes will be supported. are understood early in the development planning process as part of an evidenced b) The impacts of development proposals based approach. on infrastructure should be mitigated. Development proposals will only be • Existing infrastructure assets are used supported where it can be demonstrated sustainably, prioritising low-carbon that provision is made to address the solutions. impacts on infrastructure. Where planning • Infrastructure requirements, and their conditions, planning obligations, or other legal planned delivery to meet the needs of agreements are to be used, the relevant tests communities, are clear. will apply. Where planning obligations are entered into, they Local Development Plans: should meet the following tests: LDPs and delivery programmes should be – be necessary to make the proposed based on an integrated infrastructure first development acceptable in planning terms approach. Plans should: – serve a planning purpose • be informed by evidence on infrastructure – relate to the impacts of the proposed capacity, condition, needs and deliverability development within the plan area, including cross boundary – fairly and reasonably relate in scale and kind to infrastructure; the proposed development • set out the infrastructure requirements to – be reasonable in all other respects deliver the spatial strategy, informed by the evidence base, identifying the infrastructure Planning conditions should only be imposed priorities, and where, how, when and by where they meet all of the following tests. They whom they will be delivered; and should be: • indicate the type, level (or method of – necessary calculation) and location of the financial – relevant to planning or in-kind contributions, and the types of – relevant to the development to be permitted development from which they will be required. – enforceable – precise – reasonable in all other respects Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 68 Policy impact:  Just Transition  Conserving and recycling assets  Local living  Compact urban growth  Rebalanced development Key policy connections: Tackling the climate and nature crises Climate mitigation and adaptation Biodiversity Brownfield, vacant and derelict land and empty buildings Energy Zero waste Sustainable transport Design, quality and place Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods Heat and cooling Quality homes Rural homes Blue and green infrastructure Play, recreation and sport Flood risk and water management Health and safety Digital infrastructure Business and industry City, town, local and commercial centres Rural development Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 69 Heat and cooling e) Development proposals for energy infrastructure will be supported where they: Policy Principles i. repurpose former fossil fuel infrastructure for the production or handling of low Policy Intent: carbon energy; To encourage, promote and facilitate ii. are within or adjacent to a Heat Network development that supports decarbonised Zone; and solutions to heat and cooling demand iii. can be cost-effectively linked to an existing and ensure adaptation to more extreme or planned heat network. temperatures. f) Development proposals for buildings that will Policy Outcomes: be occupied by people will be supported • Development is connected to expanded where they are designed to promote heat networks which use and store heat sustainable temperature management, for from low or zero emission sources. example by prioritising natural or passive solutions such as siting, orientation, and • Buildings and places are adapted to materials. more extreme temperatures. Policy impact: Local Development Plans:  Just Transition LDPs should take into account the area’s Local Heat & Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES). The  Conserving and recycling assets spatial strategy should take into account areas of heat network potential and any designated Heat  Rebalanced development Network Zones (HNZ). Policy 19 Key policy connections: a) Development proposals within or adjacent to Tackling the climate and nature crises a Heat Network Zone identified in a LDP will Climate mitigation and adaptation only be supported where they are designed and constructed to connect to the existing Energy heat network. Zero waste b) Proposals for retrofitting a connection to a Infrastructure first heat network will be supported. Blue and green infrastructure c) Where a heat network is planned but not Business and industry yet in place, development proposals will only be supported where they are designed and constructed to allow for cost-effective connection at a later date. d) National and major developments that will generate waste or surplus heat and which are located in areas of heat demand, will be supported providing wider considerations, including residential amenity, are not adversely impacted. A Heat and Power Plan should demonstrate how energy recovered from the development will be used to produce electricity and heat. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 70 Blue and green infrastructure Policy 20 a) Development proposals that result in Policy Principles fragmentation or net loss of existing blue and green infrastructure will only be supported Policy Intent: where it can be demonstrated that the To protect and enhance blue and green proposal would not result in or exacerbate a infrastructure and their networks. deficit in blue or green infrastructure provision, and the overall integrity of the network will be Policy Outcomes: maintained. The planning authority’s Open • Blue and green infrastructure are Space Strategy should inform this. an integral part of early design and b) Development proposals for or incorporating development processes; are designed to new or enhanced blue and/or green deliver multiple functions including climate infrastructure will be supported. Where mitigation, nature restoration, biodiversity appropriate, this will be an integral element enhancement, flood prevention and water of the design that responds to local management. circumstances. • Communities benefit from accessible, Design will take account of existing provision, high quality blue, green and civic spaces. new requirements and network connections (identified in relevant strategies such as Local Development Plans: the Open Space Strategies) to ensure the LDPs should be informed by relevant, up-to- proposed blue and/or green infrastructure date audits and/or strategies, covering the is of an appropriate type(s), quantity, quality multiple functions and benefits of blue and and accessibility and is designed to be multi- green infrastructure. The spatial strategy should functional and well integrated into the overall identify and protect blue and green infrastructure proposals. assets and networks; enhance and expand c) Development proposals in regional and existing provision including new blue and/or country parks will only be supported where green infrastructure. This may include retrofitting. they are compatible with the uses, natural Priorities for connectivity to other blue and/or habitats, and character of the park. green infrastructure assets, including to address d) Development proposals for temporary open cross-boundary needs and opportunities, should space or green space on unused or under- also be identified. used land will be supported. LDPs should encourage the permanent or e) Development proposals that include new or temporary use of unused or under-used land as enhanced blue and/or green infrastructure green infrastructure. Where this is temporary, this will provide effective management and should not prevent future development potential maintenance plans covering the funding from being realised. arrangements for their long-term delivery and upkeep, and the party or parties responsible LDPs should safeguard access rights and for these. core paths, including active travel routes, and encourage new and enhanced opportunities for access linked to wider networks. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 71 Policy impact: Key policy connections:  Just Transition Tackling the climate and nature crises  Local living Climate mitigation and adaptation  Compact urban growth Biodiversity Natural places  Rebalanced development Soils  Rural revitalisation Forestry, woodland and trees Historic assets and places Green belts Sustainable transport Design, quality and place Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods Infrastructure first Heat and cooling Quality homes Play, recreation and sport Flood risk and water management Health and safety City, town, local and commercial centres Rural development Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 72 Play, recreation and sport iv. can demonstrate that there is a clear excess of provision to meet current and Policy Principles anticipated demand in the area, and that the site would be developed without Policy Intent: detriment to the overall quality of provision. To encourage, promote and facilitate spaces This should be informed by the local and opportunities for play, recreation and authority’s Open Space Strategy and/or Play sport. Sufficiency Assessment and in consultation with sportscotland where appropriate. Policy Outcomes: • Natural and built environments are b) Development proposals that result in the improved, with more equitable access to quantitative and/or qualitative loss of children’s opportunities for play and recreation. outdoor play provision, will only be supported where it can be demonstrated that there is no • Physical and mental health are improved ongoing or future demand or the existing play through provision of, and access to, provision will be replaced by a newly created, outdoor recreation, play and sport or improved existing asset, that is better facilities. quality or more appropriate. This should be informed by the planning Local Development Plans: authority’s Play Sufficiency Assessment. LDPs should identify sites for sports, play c) Development proposals for temporary or and outdoor recreation for people of all ages. informal play space on unused or underused This should be based on an understanding land will be supported. of the needs and demand in the community and informed by the planning authority’s Play d) Development proposals likely to be occupied Sufficiency Assessment and Open Space or used by children and young people will Strategy. These spaces can be incorporated be supported where they incorporate well- as part of enhancing and expanding blue and designed, good quality provision for play, green infrastructure, taking account of relevant recreation, and relaxation that is proportionate agencies’ plans or policy frameworks, such as to the scale and nature of the development flood risk and/or water management plans. New and existing provision in the area. provisions should be well-designed, high quality, e) Development proposals that include new accessible and inclusive. streets and public realm should be inclusive and enable children and young people to play Policy 21 and move around safely and independently, a) Development proposals which result in the maximising opportunities for informal and loss of outdoor sports facilities will only be incidental play in the neighbourhood. supported where the proposal: f) New, replacement or improved play provision i. is ancillary to the principal use of the site will, as far as possible and as appropriate: as an outdoor sports facility; or i. provide stimulating environments; ii. involves only a minor part of the facility and ii. provide a range of play experiences would not affect its use; or including opportunities to connect with iii. meets a requirement to replace the facility nature; which would be lost, either by a new iii. be inclusive; facility or by upgrading an existing facility iv. be suitable for different ages of children to provide a better quality facility. The and young people; location will be convenient for users and the overall playing capacity of the area will v. be easily and safely accessible by be maintained; or children and young people independently, including those with a disability; Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 73 vi. incorporate trees and/or other forms of greenery; Key policy connections: vii. form an integral part of the surrounding Tackling the climate and nature crises neighbourhood; Climate mitigation and adaptation viii. be well overlooked for passive Biodiversity surveillance; Natural places ix. be linked directly to other open spaces and play areas. Forestry, woodland and trees g) Development proposals that include new or Historic assets and places enhanced play or sport facilities will provide Green belts effective management and maintenance plans covering the funding arrangements for their Brownfield, vacant and derelict land and long-term delivery and upkeep, and the party empty buildings or parties responsible for these. Sustainable transport Design, quality and place Policy impact: Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods  Just Transition Infrastructure first  Compact urban growth Quality homes  Local living Rural homes  Rebalanced development Blue and green infrastructure  Rural revitalisation Flood risk and water management Health and safety City, town, local and commercial centres Culture and creativity Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 74 Flood risk and water management Policy 22 a) Development proposals at risk of flooding or Policy Principles in a flood risk area will only be supported if they are for: Policy Intent: i. essential infrastructure where the location is To strengthen resilience to flood risk by required for operational reasons; promoting avoidance as a first principle and ii. water compatible uses; reducing the vulnerability of existing and future development to flooding. iii. redevelopment of an existing building or site for an equal or less vulnerable use; or. Policy Outcomes: iv. redevelopment of previously used sites in • Places are resilient to current and future built up areas where the LDP has identified flood risk. a need to bring these into positive use and where proposals demonstrate that long- • Water resources are used efficiently and term safety and resilience can be secured sustainably. in accordance with relevant SEPA advice. • Wider use of natural flood risk The protection offered by an existing formal management benefits people and nature. flood protection scheme or one under construction can be taken into account when Local Development Plans: determining flood risk. LDPs should strengthen community resilience In such cases, it will be demonstrated by the to the current and future impacts of climate applicant that: change, by avoiding development in areas at • all risks of flooding are understood and flood risk as a first principle. Resilience should addressed; also be supported by managing the need to • there is no reduction in floodplain capacity, bring previously used sites in built up areas into increased risk for others, or a need for positive use; planning for adaptation measures; future flood protection schemes; and identifying opportunities to implement improvements to the water environment through • the development remains safe and natural flood risk management and blue green operational during floods; infrastructure. • flood resistant and resilient materials and construction methods are used; and Plans should take into account the probability • future adaptations can be made to of flooding from all sources and make use of accommodate the effects of climate relevant flood risk and river basin management change. plans for the area. A precautionary approach should be taken, regarding the calculated Additionally, for development proposals probability of flooding as a best estimate, not meeting criteria part iv), where flood risk is a precise forecast. For areas where climate managed at the site rather than avoided these change is likely to result in increased flood will also require: exposure that becomes unmanageable, • the first occupied/utilised floor, and the consideration should be given to alternative underside of the development if relevant, to sustainable land use. be above the flood risk level and have an additional allowance for freeboard; and • that the proposal does not create an island of development and that safe access/ egress can be achieved. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 75 b) Small scale extensions and alterations to existing buildings will only be supported Policy impact: where they will not significantly increase flood  Just Transition risk.  Conserving and recycling assets c) Development proposals will:  Local living i. not increase the risk of surface water flooding to others, or itself be at risk.  Compact urban growth ii. manage all rain and surface water through sustainable urban drainage systems  Rebalanced development (SUDS), which should form part of and  Rural revitalisation integrate with proposed and existing blue- green infrastructure. All proposals should presume no surface water connection to Key policy connections: the combined sewer; Tackling the climate and nature crises iii. seek to minimise the area of impermeable surface. Climate mitigation and adaptation d) Development proposals will be supported if Biodiversity they can be connected to the public water Green belts mains. If connection is not feasible, the applicant will need to demonstrate that water Coastal development for drinking water purposes will be sourced Design, quality and place from a sustainable water source that is Infrastructure first resilient to periods of water scarcity. Quality homes e) Development proposals which create, expand or enhance opportunities for natural flood Blue and green infrastructure risk management, including blue and green Health and safety infrastructure, will be supported. Business and industry Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 76 Health and safety b) Development proposals which are likely to have a significant adverse effect on health Policy Principles will not be supported. A Health Impact Assessment may be required. Policy Intent: c) Development proposals for health and social To protect people and places from care facilities and infrastructure will be environmental harm, mitigate risks arising supported. from safety hazards and encourage, promote and facilitate development that d) Development proposals that are likely to have improves health and wellbeing. significant adverse effects on air quality will not be supported. Development proposals will Policy Outcomes: consider opportunities to improve air quality • Health is improved and health inequalities and reduce exposure to poor air quality. An air are reduced. quality assessment may be required where the nature of the proposal or the air quality in the • Safe places protect human health and the location suggest significant effects are likely. environment. e) Development proposals that are likely to • A planned approach supports health raise unacceptable noise issues will not be infrastructure delivery. supported. The agent of change principle applies to noise sensitive development. A Noise Impact Assessment may be required Local Development Plans: where the nature of the proposal or its location LDP spatial strategies should seek to tackle suggests that significant effects are likely. health inequalities particularly in places which are experiencing the most disadvantage. f) Development proposals will be designed to They should identify the health and social take into account suicide risk. care services and infrastructure needed in g) Development proposals within the vicinity of a the area, including potential for co-location of major accident hazard site or major accident complementary services, in partnership with hazard pipeline (because of the presence of Health Boards and Health and Social Care toxic, highly reactive, explosive or inflammable Partnerships. substances) will consider the associated risks and potential impacts of the proposal and the LDPs should create healthier places for example major accident hazard site/pipeline of being through opportunities for exercise, healthier located in proximity to one another. lifestyles, land for community food growing and allotments, and awareness of locations of h) Applications for hazardous substances concern for suicide. consent will consider the likely potential impacts on surrounding populations and the Spatial strategies should maintain appropriate environment. distances between sites with hazardous i) Any advice from Health and Safety Executive, substances and areas where the public are likely the Office of Nuclear Regulation or the to be present and areas of particular natural Scottish Environment Protection Agency that sensitivity or interest. planning permission or hazardous substances consent should be refused, or conditions to Policy 23 be attached to a grant of consent, should not a) Development proposals that will have be overridden by the decision maker without positive effects on health will be supported. the most careful consideration. This could include, for example, proposals j) Similar considerations apply in respect of that incorporate opportunities for exercise, development proposals either for or near community food growing or allotments. licensed explosive sites (including military explosive storage sites). Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 77 Policy impact: Key policy connections:  Just Transition Tackling the climate and nature crises  Local living Climate mitigation and adaptation  Compact urban growth Forestry, woodland and trees Energy  Rebalanced development Zero waste Sustainable transport Design, quality and place Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods Infrastructure first Heat and cooling Quality homes Blue and green infrastructure Play, recreation and sport Flood risk and water management Digital infrastructure Business and industry City, town, local and commercial centres Retail Culture and creativity Aquaculture Minerals Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 78 Digital infrastructure ii. it has been demonstrated that, before erecting a new ground based mast, the Policy Principles possibility of erecting antennas on an existing building, mast or other structure, Policy Intent: replacing an existing mast and/or site To encourage, promote and facilitate the roll- sharing has been explored; and out of digital infrastructure across Scotland iii. there is no physical obstruction to to unlock the potential of all our places and aerodrome operations, technical sites, or the economy. existing transmitter/receiver facilities. Policy Outcomes: • Appropriate, universal and future proofed Policy impact: digital infrastructure across the country.  Just Transition • Local living is supported and the need to  Conserving and recycling assets travel is reduced.  Local living Local Development Plans:  Compact urban growth LDPs should support the delivery of digital  Rebalanced development infrastructure, including fixed line and mobile connectivity, particularly in areas with gaps in  Rural revitalisation connectivity and barriers to digital access. Policy 24 Key policy connections: a) Development proposals that incorporate Tackling the climate and nature crises appropriate, universal, and future-proofed Natural places digital infrastructure will be supported. Green belts b) Development proposals that deliver new digital services or provide technological Zero waste improvements, particularly in areas with no or Design, quality and place low connectivity capacity, will be supported. Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods c) Development proposals that are aligned with and support the delivery of local or Infrastructure first national programmes for the roll-out of digital Health and safety infrastructure will be supported. Community wealth building d) Development proposals that deliver new Business and industry connectivity will be supported where there are benefits of this connectivity for communities City, town, local and commercial centres and the local economy. Rural development e) Development proposals for digital infrastructure will only be supported where: i. the visual and amenity impacts of the proposed development have been minimised through careful siting, design, height, materials and, landscaping, taking into account cumulative impacts and relevant technical constraints; Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 79 Productive Places Community wealth building Policy 25 a) Development proposals which contribute Policy Principles to local or regional community wealth building strategies and are consistent with Policy Intent: local economic priorities will be supported. To encourage, promote and facilitate This could include for example improving a new strategic approach to economic community resilience and reducing inequalities; development that also provides a practical increasing spending within communities; model for building a wellbeing economy at ensuring the use of local supply chains local, regional and national levels. and services; local job creation; supporting community led proposals, including creation Policy Outcomes: of new local firms and enabling community led • local economic development that focuses ownership of buildings and assets. on community and place benefits as a central and primary consideration – to b) Development proposals linked to community support local employment and supply ownership and management of land will be chains. supported. • support community ownership and management of buildings and land. Policy impact:  Just Transition Local Development Plans:  Rebalanced development LDPs should be aligned with any strategy for community wealth building for the area.  Rural revitalisation Spatial strategies should address community wealth building priorities; identify community assets; set out opportunities to tackle economic Key policy connections: disadvantage and inequality; and seek to Brownfield, vacant and derelict land and provide benefits for local communities. empty buildings Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods Business and industry Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 80 Business and industry d) Development proposals for business, general industrial and storage and distribution uses Policy Principles outwith areas identified for those uses in the LDP will only be supported where: Policy Intent: i. It is demonstrated that there are no To encourage, promote and facilitate business suitable alternatives allocated in the LDP and industry uses and to enable alternative or identified in the employment land audit; ways of working such as home working, live- and work units and micro-businesses. ii. The nature and scale of the activity will be compatible with the surrounding area. Policy Outcomes: e) Development proposals for business and • Recovery within the business and industry industry will take into account: sector is sustainable and inclusive. i. Impact on surrounding residential amenity; • Investment in the business and industrial sensitive uses and the natural and historic sector contributes to community wealth environment; building. ii. The need for appropriate site restoration at the end of a period of commercial use. Local Development Plans: f) Major developments for manufacturing LDPs should allocate sufficient land for business or industry will be accompanied by a and industry, taking into account business and decarbonisation strategy to demonstrate how industry land audits, in particular ensuring that greenhouse gas emissions from the process there is a suitable range of sites that meet current are appropriately abated. The strategy may market demand, location, size and quality in include carbon capture and storage. terms of accessibility and services. This allocation should take account of local economic strategies and support broader objectives of delivering a Policy impact: low carbon and net zero economic recovery, and  Just Transition a fairer and more inclusive wellbeing economy.  Conserving and recycling assets Policy 26  Local living a) Development proposals for business and  Compact urban growth industry uses on sites allocated for those uses  Rebalanced development in the LDP will be supported. b) Development proposals for home working, live-work units and micro-businesses will Key policy connections: be supported where it is demonstrated Tackling the climate and nature crises that the scale and nature of the proposed business and building will be compatible Climate mitigation and adaptation with the surrounding area and there will be Sustainable transport no unacceptable impacts on amenity or neighbouring uses. Design, quality and place c) Development proposals for business and Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods industry uses will be supported where they Health and safety are compatible with the primary business Digital infrastructure function of the area. Other employment uses will be supported where they will not Community wealth building prejudice the primary function of the area and City, town, local and commercial centres are compatible with the business/industrial character of the area. Rural development Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 81 City, town, local and commercial LDPs should provide a proportion of their centres Local Housing Land Requirements in city and town centres and be proactive in identifying Policy Principles opportunities to support residential development. Policy Intent: Policy 27 To encourage, promote and facilitate a) Development proposals that enhance and development in our city and town centres, improve the vitality and viability of city, town recognising they are a national asset. This and local centres, including proposals that will be achieved by applying the Town increase the mix of uses, will be supported. Centre First approach to help centres adapt positively to long-term economic, b) Development proposals will be consistent environmental and societal changes, and by with the town centre first approach. Proposals encouraging town centre living. for uses which will generate significant footfall, including commercial, leisure, offices, Policy Outcomes: community, sport and cultural facilities, public • Centres are vibrant, healthy, creative, buildings such as libraries, education and enterprising, accessible and resilient healthcare facilities, and public spaces: places for people to live, learn, work, i. will be supported in existing city, town and enjoy and visit. local centres, and • Development is directed to the most ii. will not be supported outwith those centres sustainable locations that are accessible unless a town centre first assessment by a range of sustainable transport demonstrates that: modes and provide communities with • all centre and edge of centre options easy access to the goods, services and have been sequentially assessed and recreational opportunities they need. discounted as unsuitable or unavailable; • the scale of development cannot Local Development Plans: reasonably be altered or reduced in LDPs should support sustainable futures for scale to allow it to be accommodated in city, town and local centres, in particular a centre; and opportunities to enhance city and town centres. They should, where relevant, also support • the impacts on existing centres have proposals for improving the sustainability of been thoroughly assessed and there will existing commercial centres where appropriate. be no significant adverse effect on the vitality and viability of the centres. LDPs should identify a network of centres that reflect the principles of 20 minute neighbourhoods and the town centre vision. LDPs should be informed by evidence on where clustering of non-retail uses may be adversely impacting on the wellbeing of communities. They should also consider, and if appropriate, identify any areas where drive-through facilities may be acceptable where they would not negatively impact on the principles of local living or sustainable travel. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 82 d) Drive-through developments will only be Town Centre First Assessment supported where they are specifically For development proposals which are out supported in the LDP. of city/town centre and which will generate significant footfall a Town Centre First Town centre living Assessment will be provided. Applicants e) Development proposals for residential should agree the data required with the development within city/town centres will be planning authority before undertaking the supported, including: assessment, and should present information i. New build residential development. on areas of dispute in a succinct and ii. The re-use of a vacant building within city/ comparable form. town centres where it can be demonstrated The town centre first assessment should: that the existing use is no longer viable – identify the potential relationship of the and the proposed change of use adds to proposed development with the network of viability and vitality of the area. centres identified in the LDP; iii. The conversion, or reuse of vacant upper – demonstrate the potential economic impact floors of properties within city/town centres of the development and any possible for residential. displacement effects, including the net f) Development proposals for residential use at impact on jobs; and ground floor level within city/town centres will – consider supply chains and whether local only be supported where the proposal will: suppliers and workers will be a viable i. retain an attractive and appropriate option; and frontage; – the environmental impact of transporting ii. not adversely affect the vitality and viability goods and of staff and visitors travelling to of a shopping area or the wider centre; and the location. iii. not result in an undesirable concentration The town centre first assessment should of uses, or ‘dead frontages’. be applied flexibly and realistically for g) Development proposals for city or town centre community, education, health and social living will take into account the residential care and sport and leisure facilities so amenity of the proposal. This must be that they are easily accessible to the clearly demonstrated where the proposed communities they are intended to serve. development is in the same built structure as: i. a hot food premises, live music venue, c) Development proposals for non-retail uses amusement arcade/centre, casino or will not be supported if further provision of licensed premises (with the exception of these services will undermine the character hotels, restaurants, cafés or off licences); and amenity of the area or the health and and/or wellbeing of communities, particularly in ii. there is a common or shared access with disadvantaged areas. These uses include: licenced premises or other use likely to be i. Hot food takeaways, including permanently detrimental to residential amenity. sited vans; ii. Betting offices; and iii. High interest money lending premises. Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 83 Policy impact: Key policy connections:  Just Transition Tackling the climate and nature crises  Conserving and recycling assets Climate mitigation and adaptation  Local living Historic assets and places Brownfield, vacant and derelict land and  Compact urban growth empty buildings  Rebalanced development Sustainable transport  Rural revitalisation Design, quality and place Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods Infrastructure first Quality homes Blue and green infrastructure Play, recreation and sport Health and safety Community wealth building Business and industry Retail Rural development Tourism Culture and creativity Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 84 Retail b) Development proposals for retail that are consistent with the sequential approach (set Policy Principles out in a) and click-and-collect locker pick up points, will be supported where the proposed Policy Intent: development: To encourage, promote and facilitate retail i. is of an appropriate scale for the location; investment to the most sustainable locations ii. will have an acceptable impact on the that are most accessible by a range of character and amenity of the area; and sustainable transport modes. iii. is located to best channel footfall and Policy Outcomes: activity, to benefit the place as a whole. • Retail development and the location of c) Proposals for new small scale neighbourhood shops support vibrant city, town and local retail development will be supported where centres. the proposed development: • Communities can access the shops i. contributes to local living, including where and goods they need by a range of relevant 20 minute neighbourhoods and/or sustainable transport modes including on ii. can be demonstrated to contribute to foot, by bike, and by public transport, as the health and wellbeing of the local part of local living. community. d) In island and rural areas, development Local Development Plans: proposals for shops ancillary to other uses LDPs should consider where there may be a such as farm shops, craft shops and shops need for further retail provision, this may be: linked to petrol/service/charging stations will • where a retail study identifies deficiencies in be supported where: retail provision in terms of quality and quantity i. it will serve local needs, support local living in an area; or and local jobs; • when allocating sites for housing or the ii. the potential impact on nearby town and creation of new communities, in terms of commercial centres or village/local shops is the need for neighbourhood shopping, and acceptable; supporting local living. iii. it will provide a service throughout the year; and LDPs should identify areas where proposals for iv. the likely impacts of traffic generation and healthy food and drink outlets can be supported. access and parking arrangements are acceptable. Policy 28 a) Development proposals for retail (including expansions and changes of use) will be consistent with the town centre first principle. This means that new retail proposals: i. will be supported in existing city, town and local centres, and ii. will be supported in edge-of-centre areas or in commercial centres if they are allocated as sites suitable for new retail development in the LDP. iii. will not be supported in out of centre locations (other than those meeting policy 28(c) or 28(d)). Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 85 Policy impact:  Local living  Compact urban growth  Rural revitalisation Key policy connections: Tackling the climate and nature crises Climate mitigation and adaptation Sustainable transport Design, quality and place Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods Health and safety City, town, local and commercial centres Rural development Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 86 Rural development iv. essential community services; v. essential infrastructure; Policy Principles vi. reuse of a redundant or unused building; Policy Intent: vii. appropriate use of a historic environment asset or is appropriate enabling To encourage rural economic activity, development to secure the future of innovation and diversification whilst ensuring historic environment assets; that the distinctive character of the rural area and the service function of small towns, viii. reuse of brownfield land where a return to natural assets and cultural heritage are a natural state has not or will not happen safeguarded and enhanced. without intervention; ix. small scale developments that support Policy Outcomes: new ways of working such as remote • Rural places are vibrant and sustainable working, homeworking and community and rural communities and businesses are hubs; or supported. x. improvement or restoration of the natural • A balanced and sustainable rural population. environment. b) Development proposals in rural areas should Local Development Plans: be suitably scaled, sited and designed LDPs should identify the characteristics of to be in keeping with the character of the rural areas within the plan area, including the area. They should also consider how the existing pattern of development, pressures, development will contribute towards local environmental assets, community priorities living and take into account the transport and economic needs of each area. The spatial needs of the development as appropriate for strategy should set out an appropriate approach the rural location. to development in rural areas which reflects c) Development proposals in remote rural areas, the identified characteristics. The Scottish where new development can often help to Government’s 6 fold Urban Rural Classification sustain fragile communities, will be supported 2020 should be used to identify remote rural where the proposal: areas. Spatial strategies should support the i. will support local employment; sustainability and prosperity of rural communities and economies. Previously inhabited areas ii. supports and sustains existing which are suitable for resettlement should be communities, for example through provision identified in the spatial strategy. of digital infrastructure; and iii. is suitable in terms of location, access, Policy 29 siting, design and environmental impact. a) Development proposals that contribute to the d) Development proposals that support the viability, sustainability and diversity of rural resettlement of previously inhabited areas will communities and local rural economy will be be supported where the proposal: supported, including: i. is in an area identified in the LDP as i. farms, crofts, woodland crofts or other suitable for resettlement; land use businesses, where use of good ii. is designed to a high standard; quality land for development is minimised and business viability is not adversely iii. responds to their rural location; and affected; iv. is designed to minimise greenhouse gas ii. diversification of existing businesses; emissions as far as possible. iii. production and processing facilities for local produce and materials, for example sawmills, or local food production; Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 87 Policy impact: Key policy connections:  Just Transition Tackling the climate and nature crises  Conserving and recycling assets Climate mitigation and adaptation  Local living Natural places Soils  Compact urban growth Historic assets and places  Rebalanced development Green belts  Rural revitalisation Brownfield, vacant and derelict land and empty buildings Coastal development Sustainable transport Design, quality and place Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods Infrastructure first Rural homes Blue and green infrastructure Flood risk and water management Business and industry City, town, local and commercial centres Retail Tourism Culture and creativity Aquaculture Minerals Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 88 Tourism iii. Impacts on communities, for example by hindering the provision of homes and Policy Principles services for local people; iv. Opportunities for sustainable travel and Policy Intent: appropriate management of parking and To encourage, promote and facilitate traffic generation and scope for sustaining sustainable tourism development which public transport services particularly in benefits local people, is consistent with rural areas; our net zero and nature commitments, and v. Accessibility for disabled people; inspires people to visit Scotland. vi. Measures taken to minimise carbon Policy Outcomes: emissions; • Communities and places enjoy economic, vii. Opportunities to provide access to the social and cultural benefits from tourism, natural environment. supporting resilience and stimulating job c) Development proposals that involve the creation. change of use of a tourism-related facility will only be supported where it is demonstrated Local Development Plans: that the existing use is no longer viable and LDPs should support the recovery, growth that there is no requirement for alternative and long-term resilience of the tourism sector. tourism-related facilities in the area. The spatial strategy should identify suitable d) Proposals for huts will be supported where locations which reflect opportunities for tourism the nature and scale of the development is development by taking full account of the needs compatible with the surrounding area and the of communities, visitors, the industry and the proposal complies with relevant good practice environment. Relevant national and local sector guidance. driven tourism strategies should also be taken into account. e) Development proposals for the reuse of existing buildings for short term holiday letting The spatial strategy should also identify areas will not be supported where the proposal will of pressure where existing tourism provision result in: is having adverse impacts on the environment i. An unacceptable impact on local amenity or the quality of life and health and wellbeing or the character of a neighbourhood or of local communities, and where further area; or development is not appropriate. ii. The loss of residential accommodation where such loss is not outweighed by Policy 30 demonstrable local economic benefits. a) Development proposals for new or extended tourist facilities or accommodation, including caravan and camping sites, in locations identified in the LDP, will be supported. b) Proposals for tourism related development will take into account: i. The contribution made to the local economy; ii. Compatibility with the surrounding area in terms of the nature and scale of the activity and impacts of increased visitors; Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 89 Policy impact:  Just Transition  Conserving and recycling assets  Local living  Rebalanced development  Rural revitalisation Key policy connections: Tackling the climate and nature crises Climate mitigation and adaptation Natural places Historic assets and places Coastal development Sustainable transport Design, quality and place Quality homes Rural homes Health and safety Community wealth building City, town, local and commercial centres Retail Rural development Culture and creativity Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 90 Culture and creativity iii. alternative provision of equal or greater standard is made available at a suitable Policy Principles location within the local area; and iv. the loss of the venue does not result in Policy Intent: loss or damage to assets or objects of To encourage, promote and facilitate significant cultural value. development which reflects our diverse d) Development proposals within the vicinity culture and creativity, and to support our of existing arts venues will fully reflect the culture and creative industries. agent of change principle and will only be Policy Outcomes: supported where they can demonstrate that measures can be put in place to ensure that • Locally distinctive places reflect the existing noise and disturbance impacts on the diversity of communities and support proposed development would be acceptable regeneration and town centre vibrancy. and that existing venues and facilities can • Cultural and creative industries are continue without additional restrictions being expanded, providing jobs and investment. placed on them as a result of the proposed • Communities have access to cultural and new development. creative activities. Policy impact: Local Development Plans:  Just Transition LDPs should recognise and support  Conserving and recycling assets opportunities for jobs and investment in the creative sector, culture, heritage and the arts.  Local living  Rebalanced development Policy 31 a) Development proposals that involve a significant change to existing, or the creation Key policy connections: of new, public open spaces will make Tackling the climate and nature crises provision for public art. Public art proposals Climate mitigation and adaptation which reflect diversity, culture and creativity will be supported. Historic assets and places b) Development proposals for creative Brownfield, vacant and derelict land and workspaces or other cultural uses that involve empty buildings the temporary use of vacant spaces or Zero waste property will be supported. Sustainable transport c) Development proposals that would result in Design, quality and place the loss of an arts or cultural venue will only Local Living and 20 minute neighbourhoods supported where: i. there is no longer a sustainable demand Blue and green infrastructure for the venue and after marketing the site Play, recreation and sport at a reasonable rate for at least 12 months, Health and safety through relevant local and national agents Digital infrastructure and online platforms, there has been no viable interest from potential operators; or Community wealth building ii. the venue, as evidenced by consultation, City, town, local and commercial centres no longer meets the needs of users and Rural development cannot be adapted; or Tourism Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 91 Aquaculture navigation, containment, deposition, waste emissions and sea lice, impacts on wild Policy Principles salmonids, aquaculture litter (and odour and impacts on other marine users)) are Policy Intent: acceptable and comply with the relevant To encourage, promote and facilitate regulatory framework. aquaculture development and minimise d) Development proposals for fish farm any adverse effects on the environment, developments will only be supported where including cumulative impacts. the following impacts have been assessed Planning should support an aquaculture and mitigated: industry that is sustainable, diverse, i. landscape and visual impact of the competitive, economically viable and which proposal including the siting and design of contributes to food security, whilst operating cages, lines and associated facilities taking with social licence, within environmental limits into account the character of the location; and which ensures there is a thriving marine ii. the impact of any land based facilities, ecosystem for future generations. ensuring that the siting and design are appropriate for the location; Policy Outcomes: iii. impacts on natural heritage, designated • New aquaculture development is in sites and priority marine features; and locations that reflect industry needs and iv. impacts on historic marine protected areas. considers environmental impacts. • Producers will contribute to communities e) Applications for open water farmed finfish and local economies. or shellfish development are excluded from the requirements of policy 3b) and 3c) and • Prosperous finfish, shellfish and seaweed will instead apply all relevant provisions from sectors. National and Regional Marine Plans. • Migratory fish species are safeguarded. Policy impact: Local Development Plans:  Just Transition LDPs should guide new aquaculture development in line with National and Regional  Rebalanced development Marine Planning, and will minimise adverse  Rural revitalisation environmental impacts, including cumulative impacts, that arise from other existing and planned aquaculture developments in the area while also reflecting industry needs. Key policy connections: Tackling the climate and nature crises Policy 32 Historic assets and places a) To safeguard migratory fish species, further salmon and trout open pen fish farm Natural places developments on the north and east coasts of Biodiversity mainland Scotland will not be supported. Coastal development b) Development proposals for aquaculture will be Design, quality and place supported where they comply with the LDP, the National Marine Plan and, where relevant, Health and safety the appropriate Regional Marine Plan. Community wealth building c) Development proposals for fish farms Business and industry will demonstrate that operational impacts (including from noise, acoustic deterrent Rural development devices (where applicable) light, access, Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 92 Minerals appraisal or production of coal bed methane or shale oil or shale gas, using unconventional Policy Principles oil and gas extraction techniques, including hydraulic fracturing and dewatering for coal Policy Intent: bed methane. To support the sustainable management of c) Development proposals that would sterilise resources and minimise the impacts of the mineral deposits of economic value will only extraction of minerals on communities and be supported where: the environment. i. there is an overriding need for the Policy Outcomes: development and prior extraction of the mineral cannot reasonably be undertaken; • Sufficient resources are available to meet or industry demands, making an essential contribution to the Scottish economy. ii. extraction of the mineral is impracticable or unlikely to be environmentally acceptable. • Important raw materials for manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and other d) Development proposals for the sustainable industries are available. extraction of minerals will only be supported where they: • Important workable mineral resources i. will not result in significant adverse are protected from sterilisation by other impacts on biodiversity, geodiversity and developments. the natural environment, sensitive habitats • Communities and the environment are and the historic environment, as well as protected from the impacts of mineral landscape and visual impacts; extraction. ii. provide an adequate buffer zone between sites and settlements taking account of Local Development Plans: the specific circumstances of individual LDPs should support a landbank of construction proposals, including size, duration, aggregates of at least 10-years at all times in location, method of working, topography, the relevant market areas, whilst promoting and the characteristics of the various sustainable resource management, safeguarding environmental effects likely to arise; important workable mineral resources, which iii. can demonstrate that there are no are of economic or conservation value, and take significant adverse impacts (including steps to ensure these are not sterilised by other cumulative impact) on any nearby homes, types of development. local communities and known sensitive receptors and designations; Policy 33 iv. demonstrate acceptable levels (including a) Development proposals that seek to cumulative impact) of noise, dust, explore, develop, and produce fossil fuels vibration and potential pollution of land, (excluding unconventional oil and gas) will air and water; not be supported other than in exceptional v. minimise transport impacts through the circumstances. Any such exceptions will be number and length of lorry trips and by required to demonstrate that the proposal using rail or water transport wherever is consistent with national policy on energy practical; and targets for reducing greenhouse gas vi. have appropriate mitigation plans in place emissions. for any adverse impacts; b) The Scottish Government does not support vii. include schemes for a high standard the development of unconventional oil and of restoration and aftercare and gas in Scotland. This means development commitment that such work is undertaken connected to the onshore exploration, at the earliest opportunity. As a further Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 93 safeguard a range of financial guarantee options are available, and the most effective solution should be considered and agreed on a site-by-site basis. Solutions should provide assurance and clarity over the amount and period of the guarantee and in particular, where it is a bond, the risks covered (including operator failure) and the triggers for calling in a bond, including payment terms. e) Development proposals for borrow pits will only be supported where: i. the proposal is tied to a specific project and is time-limited; ii. the proposal complies with the above mineral extraction criteria taking into account the temporary nature of the development; and iii. appropriate restoration proposals are enforceable. Policy impact:  Conserving and recycling assets Key policy connections: Tackling the climate and nature crises Biodiversity Natural places Historic assets and places Zero waste Infrastructure first Health and safety Part 2 – National Planning Policy National Planning Framework 4 94 Part 3 – Annexes Annex A – How to use this document loss, improve health and wellbeing, reduce inequalities, build a wellbeing economy and Purpose of Planning create great places. The purpose of planning is to manage the development and use of land in the long-term Role of the National Planning Framework public interest. Scotland 2045: our Fourth National Planning Framework, commonly known as NPF4, is The decisions we make today will have required by law to set out the Scottish Ministers’ implications for future generations. Scotland in policies and proposals for the development and 2045 will be different. We must embrace and use of land. It plays a key role in supporting the deliver radical change so we can tackle and delivery of Scotland’s national outcomes and the adapt to climate change, restore biodiversity United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. National Performance Framework Our Purpose, Values and National Outcomes We have a globally We respect, competitive, We are open, protect and entrepreneurial, connected and fulfil human inclusive and make a positive rights and sustainable contribution live free from economy internationally discrimination We are creative We tackle and our vibrant poverty by and diverse OUR PURPOSE sharing cultures are To focus on creating a opportunities, expressed and more successful country with wealth and power enjoyed widely opportunities for all of Scotland more equally to flourish through increased wellbeing, and sustainable and inclusive economic growth We live in We value, enjoy, communities protect and OUR VALUES that are inclusive, enhance our We are a society which treats all our empowered, environment people with kindness, dignity and resilient compassion, respects the rule and safe of law, and acts in an open and transparent way We are We grow up healthy and loved, safe and active respected so that we We have We are well realise our thriving and educated, full potential innovative skilled and businesses, able to with quality jobs contribute and fair work for to society everyone Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 95 NPF4 includes a long-term spatial strategy to NPF4 replaces National Planning Framework

2045 — This reflects the spatial aspects of a range 3 (2014) and Scottish Planning Policy (2014)

2045. This reflects the spatial aspects of a range 3 (2014) and Scottish Planning Policy (2014). of Scottish Government policies, including the NPF4 should be read as a whole. It represents a Infrastructure Investment Plan. package of planning policies to guide us to the place we want Scotland to be in 2045. The Infrastructure Investment Plan (IIP) identified that NPF4 would include housing land NPF4 is required by law to contribute to 6 requirements framed within a spatial strategy outcomes: that aligns with the investment programme and • Meeting the housing needs of people living in principles, and highlighted that national planning Scotland including, in particular, the housing policies would include an infrastructure first needs for older people and disabled people, approach. • Improving the health and wellbeing of people The NPF4 strategy, policies and national living in Scotland, developments are aligned to the strategic • Increasing the population of rural areas of themes of the IIP: enabling the transition to net Scotland, zero emissions and environmental sustainability; • Improving equality and eliminating driving inclusive economic growth; and building discrimination, resilient and sustainable places. The policies • Meeting any targets relating to the reduction and instruction for LDPs activate the IIP of emissions of greenhouse gases, and priorities within the themes to the degree that • Securing positive effects for biodiversity. those priorities involve physical development, opportunities for people and improvements Statements setting out further detail on the for place. Minimum All Tenure Housing Land contribution of NPF4 to each outcome are set Requirements are set out at Annex E. The out in Part 1. investment hierarchy influences the approach to NPF4 overall and features specifically in instructions for LDPs in Policy 18 ‘Infrastructure First’. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 96 Plan-led Approach A plan-led approach is central to supporting the delivery of Scotland’s national outcomes and broader sustainable development goals. It is a legislative requirement that planning decisions must be made in accordance with the development plan, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. The statutory development plan for any given area of Scotland consists of the National Planning Framework and the relevant LDP(s). The Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 prescribes four different plans, at different scales: National Planning Framework (NPF) The National Planning Framework sets out the Scottish Ministers’ policies and proposals for the development and use of land. The NPF must have regard to any adopted regional spatial strategy. NPF4 is part of the statutory development plan. Regional spatial strategies (RSS) The Planning (Scotland) Act 2019 introduced a new duty requiring the preparation of regional spatial strategies. A planning authority, or authorities acting jointly will prepare these long-term spatial strategies for the strategic development of an area. RSS are not part of the statutory development plan, but have an important role to play in informing future versions of the NPF and LDPs. Local development plans (LDPs) Planning authorities must prepare one or more LDPs for their area. The LDP sets out a spatial strategy for the development of that area. It must take into account the National Planning Framework and any registered local place plan in the area it covers. It must have regard to the authority’s adopted regional spatial strategy. The LDP must also have regard to any local outcomes improvement plan for the area it covers. LDPs are part of the statutory development plan. Local place plans (LPPs) Local place plans are community-led plans setting out proposals for the development and use of land. They must have regard to the NPF, any LDP which covers the same area, and also any locality plan which covers the same area. LPPs are not part of the statutory development plan, but have an important role to play in informing LDPs. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 97 Spatial Strategy Their designation is not intended to describe Part 1 sets out our spatial strategy for Scotland in detail how the projects should be designed, to 2045, identifying: matters to consider, or impact assessments and mitigation to be applied. In addition to • 6 spatial principles which will influence all our the statement of need at Annex B, decision plans and decisions: makers for applications for consent for national – Just transition developments should take into account all – Conserving and recycling assets relevant policies. – Local living LDPs should take forward proposals for national – Compact urban growth developments where relevant and facilitate their – Rebalanced development delivery. This could be through supporting land – Rural revitalisation allocations, policy intervention and LDP delivery • 3 themes, linked to the United Nations programmes. Sustainable Development Goals and Scottish Government National Performance Framework: Regional Spatial Priorities – Sustainable places where we reduce Regional spatial priorities set out how each emissions, restore and better connect part of the country can use their assets and biodiversity opportunities to help deliver the overall strategy. – Liveable places where we can all live better, The detail of these priorities should be further healthier lives considered and consulted upon through the local development planning process, and where – Productive places where we have a greener, appropriate through regional spatial strategies fairer and more inclusive wellbeing economy and regional transport strategies. LDPs should take account of these principles The maps are indicative, and certain authorities and outcomes, and they should also be reflected may have a role to play in more than one within regional spatial strategies and local place regional area. The broad areas identified in plans. NPF4 are intended to act as a flexible framework to guide the preparation of future Regional National Developments Spatial Strategies. It is open to planning Eighteen national developments have been authorities to decide for themselves, including identified. These are significant developments of by working in partnership with others, the most national importance that will help to deliver the appropriate scale and extent of areas to be spatial strategy. They are intentionally high level covered by Regional Spatial Strategies. and focus on key elements, as the projects are at different stages. Statutory guidance will guide the preparation of Regional Spatial Strategies. National development status does not grant planning permission for the development and all relevant consents are required. Their designation means that the principle of the development does not need to be agreed in later consenting processes, providing more certainty for communities, business and investors. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 98 National Planning Policy Part 2 sets out our policy framework by topic under the three themes. Planning is complex and requires careful balancing of issues. The policy intent is provided to aid plan makers and decision makers to understand the intent of each policy and to help deliver policy aspirations. The policy outcomes set out what we want to achieve and will help to influence future monitoring of the planning system. The Local Development Plan section clarifies the expected role of LDPs for each topic. The focus for LDPs should be on land allocation through the spatial strategy and interpreting this national policy in a local context. There is no need for LDPs to replicate policies within NPF4, but authorities can add further detail including locally specific policies should they consider to be a need to do so, based on the area’s individual characteristics. The policy sections are for use in the determination of planning applications. The policies should be read as a whole. Planning decisions must be made in accordance with the development plan, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. It is for the decision maker to determine what weight to attach to policies on a case by case basis. Where a policy states that development will be supported, it is in principle, and it is for the decision maker to take into account all other relevant policies. The policy impact section shows which spatial principles the policy will help to deliver. The key policy connections help to show the key connections between policies, but are not intended to be comprehensive. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 99 Annex B – National Developments Statements of Need National developments are significant An assessment of the likely impact of each developments of national importance that will proposed national development’s lifecycle help to deliver our spatial strategy. greenhouse gas emissions on achieving national greenhouse gas emissions reductions targets1 Eighteen national developments will support the (with the meaning given in the Climate Change delivery of our spatial strategy. These national (Scotland) Act 2009) has been undertaken. The developments range from single large scale assessment is based on the detail provided at projects or collections and networks of several the time of the assessment, and the conclusion smaller scale proposals. They are also intended may alter depending on the nature and detail of to act as exemplars of the Place Principle and the projects taken forward. placemaking approaches. The potential for national developments to affect The statements of need set out in this annex European designated sites, depending on are a requirement of the Town and Country the precise design, location and construction Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 and describe the of individual projects, has been identified by development to be considered as a national the Habitats Regulations Appraisal (HRA) of development for consent handling purposes. NPF4. Any such development would need to be considered carefully at project level and all relevant statutory tests met. 1 Research project: Lifecycle Greenhouse Gas Emissions of NPF4 Proposed National Developments Assessment Findings (LUC 2021) available online at https://www.transformingplanning.scot/national-planning-framework/ Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 100

1 — Energy Innovation Development on the Designation and classes of development

1. Energy Innovation Development on the Designation and classes of development Islands A development contributing to ‘Energy Innovation This national development supports proposed Development on the Islands’ in the location developments in the Outer Hebrides, Shetland described, within one or more of the Classes of and Orkney island groups, for renewable energy Development described below and that is of a generation, renewable hydrogen production, scale or type that would otherwise have been infrastructure and shipping, and associated classified as ‘major’ by ‘The Town and Country opportunities in the supply chain for fabrication, Planning (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) research and development. Regulations 2009’, is designated a national development: Any strategy for deployment of these Outer Hebrides – Supporting the Arnish technologies must enable decarbonisation Renewables Base and Outer Hebrides Energy at pace and cannot be used to justify Hub unsustainable levels of fossil fuel extraction or impede Scotland’s just transition to net zero. The classes below apply to development that is for delivery of the Arnish Renewables Base and This is aligned with low carbon energy projects Outer Hebrides Energy Hub: within the Islands Growth Deal that have been developed with local partners such as the a) New or updated on and/or off shore Islands Centre for Net Zero and encompasses infrastructure for energy generation from other projects that can facilitate net zero aims. renewables exceeding 50 megawatts capacity; The use of low and zero emission fuels will b) Electricity transmission cables and converter play a crucial role in decarbonising island and stations on and/or off shore of 132 kilovolts mainland energy use, shipping, strengthening (kv) and above; energy security overall and creating a low carbon energy economy for the islands and c) Infrastructure for the production, storage and islanders. The developments will add value transportation of low and zero-carbon fuels where they link into national and international (that are not electricity or heat) including energy expertise, learning and research and renewable hydrogen; and hydrogen development networks. production related chemicals including ammonia with appropriate carbon capture Location linked to transport and storage infrastructure; Outer Hebrides, Shetland, Orkney and d) Improved oil storage infrastructure for surrounding waters. Stornoway, with appropriate emissions abatement; and Need These classes of development support the e) Quay to service renewable energy, energy potential of the three island authorities to transportation, energy decommissioning, exemplify a transition to a net zero society. This fabrication or freight handling, including will support delivery of our spatial strategy by new or enhanced associated laydown or helping to sustain communities in rural and operational area at Arnish. island areas by stimulating employment and innovation. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 101 Shetland Islands – Supporting the Opportunity b) Electricity transmission cables and converter for Renewable Integration with Offshore stations on and/or off shore of 132kv and Networks (ORION) Clean Energy Project above; The classes below apply to development that c) Infrastructure for the production, storage and is for delivery of renewable and low carbon transportation of low and zero-carbon fuels aspects of the ORION project: (that are not electricity or heat) including renewable hydrogen; and hydrogen a) New or updated on and/or off shore production related chemicals including infrastructure for energy generation from ammonia with appropriate carbon capture renewables exceeding 50 megawatts linked to transport and storage infrastructure; capacity; d) Quay to service renewable energy, energy b) Electricity transmission cables and converter transportation, energy decommissioning, stations on and/or off shore of/or exceeding fabrication or freight handling, including 132kv; new or enhanced associated laydown or c) Infrastructure for the production, storage and operational area at, Scapa Flow, and Hatston transportation of low and zero-carbon fuels (Kirkwall); and (that are not electricity or heat) including e) Oil terminal modifications at Scapa Flow to renewable hydrogen; and hydrogen maintain asset use moving towards net zero production related chemicals including emissions. ammonia with appropriate carbon capture linked to transport, storage, and utilisation Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions infrastructure at Sullom Voe; assessment d) Quay to service renewable energy, energy Depending on the nature of the projects taken transportation, energy decommissioning, forward and considering both direct and indirect fabrication or freight handling, including effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions new or enhanced associated laydown or assessment concludes this development will operational area at Sullom Voe, Scatsta, likely have an overall net positive impact on Lerwick, and Dales Voe (Lerwick); achieving national greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets. e) Oil terminal modifications at Sullom Voe to maintain asset use moving towards net zero emissions; and Policy impact:  Rebalanced development f) New infrastructure, and/or upgraded buildings and facilities to support the transportation and  Conserving and recycling assets storage of captured carbon.  Rural revitalisation Orkney Islands – Supporting Scapa Flow Future  Just transition Fuels Hub and Orkney Harbours The classes below apply to development that is for the delivery of the Future Fuels Hub, new quay in Scapa Flow, and the Orkney Logistics Base at Hatston, which support services for the renewable and marine energy and shipping sectors: a) New or updated on and/or off shore infrastructure for energy generation from renewables exceeding 50 megawatts capacity; Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 102

2 — Pumped Hydro Storage Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions

2. Pumped Hydro Storage Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions This national development will play a significant assessment role in balancing and optimising electricity Depending on the nature of the projects taken generation and maintaining the operability of the forward and considering both direct and indirect electricity system as part of our transition to net effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions zero. This is necessary as we continue to move assessment concludes this development will towards a decarbonised system with much more likely have an overall net positive impact on renewable generation, the output from which is achieving national greenhouse gas emissions defined by weather conditions. reduction targets. This national development supports additional Policy impact: capacity at existing sites as well as at new sites. Cruachan in Argyll is a nationally important  Rebalanced development example of a pumped storage facility with  Conserving and recycling assets significant potential for enhanced capacity that  Rural revitalisation could create significant jobs in a rural location.  Just transition Location All Scotland. Need This national development supports pumped hydro storage capacity within the electricity network through significant new or expanded sites. This supports the transition to a net zero economy through the ability of pumped hydro storage schemes to optimise electricity generated from renewables by storing and releasing it when it is required. Designation and classes of development A development contributing to ‘Pumped Hydro Storage’ in the location described, within one or more of the Classes of Development described below and that is of a scale or type that would otherwise have been classified as ‘major’ by ‘The Town and Country Planning (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) Regulations 2009’, is designated a national development: a) New and/or expanded and/or upgraded water holding reservoir and dam; b) New and/or upgraded electricity generating plant structures or buildings; c) New and/or upgraded pump plant structures or buildings; d) New and/or expanded and/or upgraded water inlet and outlet pipework; e) New and/or upgraded substations and/or transformers; and f) New and/or replacement transmission cables. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 103

3 — Strategic Renewable Electricity Generation Designation and classes of development

3. Strategic Renewable Electricity Generation Designation and classes of development and Transmission Infrastructure A development contributing to ‘Strategic This national development supports renewable Renewable Electricity Generation and electricity generation, repowering, and expansion Transmission’ in the location described, within of the electricity grid. one or more of the Classes of Development described below and that is of a scale or type A large and rapid increase in electricity that would otherwise have been classified as generation from renewable sources will be ‘major’ by ‘The Town and Country Planning essential for Scotland to meet its net zero (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) emissions targets. Certain types of renewable Regulations 2009’, is designated a national electricity generation will also be required, which development: will include energy storage technology and a) On and off shore electricity generation, capacity, to provide the vital services, including including electricity storage, from renewables flexible response, that a zero carbon network will exceeding 50 megawatts capacity; require. Generation is for domestic consumption as well as for export to the UK and beyond, b) New and/or replacement upgraded on and with new capacity helping to decarbonise heat, offshore high voltage electricity transmission transport and industrial energy demand. This lines, cables and interconnectors of 132kv or has the potential to support jobs and business more; and investment, with wider economic benefits. c) New and/or upgraded Infrastructure directly supporting on and offshore high voltage The electricity transmission grid will need electricity lines, cables and interconnectors substantial reinforcement including the addition including converter stations, switching stations of new infrastructure to connect and transmit and substations. the output from new on and offshore capacity to consumers in Scotland, the rest of the UK and Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions beyond. Delivery of this national development assessment will be informed by market, policy and regulatory Depending on the nature of the projects taken developments and decisions. forward and considering both direct and indirect effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions Location assessment concludes this development will All Scotland. likely have an overall net positive impact on Need achieving national greenhouse gas emissions Additional electricity generation from renewables reduction targets. and electricity transmission capacity of scale is fundamental to achieving a net zero economy Policy impact: and supports improved network resilience in  Local Living rural and island areas. Island transmission connections in particular can facilitate capturing  Rebalanced development the significant renewable energy potential in  Conserving and recycling assets those areas as well as delivering significant  Just transition social and economic benefits. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 104

4 — Circular Economy Materials Management Designation and classes of development

4. Circular Economy Materials Management Designation and classes of development Facilities A development contributing to ‘Circular Economy This national development supports the Materials Management Facilities’ in the location development of facilities required to achieve described, within one or more of the Classes of a circular economy. This sector will provide Development described below and that is of a a range of business, skills and employment scale or type that would otherwise have been opportunities as part of a just transition to a net classified as ‘major’ by ‘The Town and Country zero economy. Planning (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) Regulations 2009’ is designated a national The range and scale of facilities required development: to manage secondary materials and their a) Facilities for managing secondary materials; circulation back into the economy is not yet and clear. However, sites and facilities will be needed to retain the resource value of materials b) Recycling facilities. so that we can maximise the use of materials Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions in the economy and minimise the use of virgin assessment materials in order to reduce greenhouse gas Depending on the nature of the projects taken emissions. This is particularly significant for forward and considering both direct and indirect the construction and demolition industries and effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions decommissioning industry. assessment concludes this development will Careful assessment of specific proposals will be likely have an overall net positive impact on required to ensure they provide sustainable low achieving national greenhouse gas emissions carbon solutions, include appropriate controls, reduction targets. manage any emissions and mitigate localised impacts including on neighbouring communities Policy impact: and the wider environment.  Local Living Location  Conserving and recycling assets All Scotland.  Just transition Need This national development helps maximise Scotland’s potential to retain the energy and emissions values within materials already in the economy. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 105

5 — Urban Sustainable, Blue and Green Designation and classes of development

5. Urban Sustainable, Blue and Green Designation and classes of development Surface Water Management Solutions A development contributing to ‘Urban This national development aims to build on the Sustainable, Blue and Green Surface Water benefits of the Metropolitan Glasgow Strategic Management Solutions’ in the location described, Drainage Partnership, to continue investment and within the Class of Development described extend the approach to the Edinburgh city region. below and that is of a scale or type that would otherwise have been classified as ‘major’ by Our biggest cities and their regions will require ‘The Town and Country Planning (Hierarchy of improved infrastructure to ensure they are Developments) (Scotland) Regulations 2009’ is more resilient to climate change. A strategic, designated a national development: catchment scale approach to adaptation through a) Spaces, infrastructure, works, structures, surface water and drainage infrastructure buildings, pipelines, and nature-based investment will reduce impacts and risks for approaches, for surface water management our urban population and is an example of an and drainage systems. infrastructure first approach. Catchment scale nature-based solutions which may include blue Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions and green infrastructure should be prioritised. assessment Grey infrastructure should be optimised and Depending on the nature of the projects taken only used when necessary to augment blue- forward and considering both direct and indirect green infrastructure solutions. Delivery of multiple effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions climate, wellbeing and economic benefits should assessment concludes this development will form the basis of the approach. Whilst this likely have an overall net positive impact on national development focuses on Edinburgh and achieving national greenhouse gas emissions Glasgow other cities and towns may benefit from reduction targets. similar approaches. Location Policy impact: Glasgow and Edinburgh City Regions and their  Compact urban growth wider water catchment areas.  Local living Need  Conserving and recycling assets A large proportion of our population lives in our largest cities. The management of surface water  Rural revitalisation drainage at scale across these city regions will  Just transition help us to adapt to extreme weather events that will become more frequent as a result of climate change. A nature-based approach to surface water management has the potential to deliver multiple health, wellbeing, economic and climate adaptation and emissions reduction benefits and it may free up sewer capacity. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 106

6 — Urban Mass/Rapid Transit Networks Designation and classes of development

6. Urban Mass/Rapid Transit Networks Designation and classes of development This national development supports low carbon A development contributing to ‘Urban Mass/ mass/rapid transit projects for Aberdeen, Rapid Transit Networks’ in the location Edinburgh and Glasgow. described, within one or more of the Classes of Development below and that is of a scale or To reduce transport emissions at scale, we type that would otherwise have been classified will require low carbon transport solutions as ‘major’ by ‘The Town and Country Planning for these three major cities that can support (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) transformational reduction in private car use. Regulations 2009’ is designated a national Development of the Glasgow ‘Metro’ and development. This relates to development Edinburgh Mass Transit in these cities and their supported by the Strategic Transport Projects associated regions plus the Aberdeen Rapid Review 2 consisting of new or upgraded: Transit system are recommendations from the a) Track or road infrastructure; Strategic Transport Projects Review 2. b) Fuelling or power infrastructure; This will support placemaking and deliver improved transport equity across the most c) Passenger facilities; and densely populated parts of Scotland, improving d) Depots servicing the networks. access to employment and supporting sustainable investment in the longer term. It can Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions function as part of a broader transport network assessment that includes active travel, and this places Depending on the nature of the projects taken importance on multi-modal hubs or transport forward and considering both direct and indirect interchange points. effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions assessment concludes this development will The type of interventions will be determined likely have an overall net positive impact on through the on-going development of business achieving national greenhouse gas emissions cases and studies but could include the provision reduction targets. of new systems or extensions to existing sustainable and public transport networks. Policy impact: Location Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh City Regions.  Compact urban growth  Local living Need This national development will help reduce  Conserving and recycling assets transport related emissions overall, improve  Just transition air quality, reduce the demand for private vehicle use, support the roll out of 20 minute neighbourhoods and improve transport equity. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 107

7 — Central Scotland Green Network Designation and classes of development

7. Central Scotland Green Network Designation and classes of development This national development is one of Europe’s A development contributing to ‘Central Scotland largest and most ambitious green infrastructure Green Network’ in the location described, within projects. It will play a key role in tackling the one or more of the Classes of Development challenges of climate change and biodiversity described below and that is of a scale or type loss including by building and strengthening that would otherwise have been classified as nature networks. A greener approach to ‘major’ by ‘The Town and Country Planning development will improve placemaking, (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) can contribute to the roll-out of 20 minute Regulations 2009’, is designated a national neighbourhoods and will benefit biodiversity development: connectivity. This has particular relevance in a) Development to create and/or enhance multi- the more urban parts of Scotland where there is functional green infrastructure including for: pressure for development as well as significant emissions sequestration; adaptation to climate areas requiring regeneration to address past change; and biodiversity enhancement; decline and disadvantage. Regeneration, b) Reuse of vacant and derelict land and repurposing and reuse of brownfield land buildings for greening and nature-based should be a priority. solutions; Priorities include enhancement to provide c) New and/or upgraded sustainable surface multi-functional green and blue infrastructure water management and drainage systems that provides greatest environmental, lifelong and the creation of blue space; physical and mental health, social wellbeing d) Use of land for allotments or community food and economic benefits. It focuses on those growing; and areas where greening and development can be mutually supportive, helping to improve equity e) Routes for active travel and/or recreation. of access to quality green and blue space, and supporting communities where improving Lifecycle Greenhouse Gas Emissions wellbeing and resilience is most needed, assessment including to help people adapt to future climate Depending on the nature of the projects taken risks. forward and considering both direct and indirect effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions Nature-based solutions for climate change assessment concludes this development will adaptation and mitigation may include woodland likely have an overall net positive impact on expansion and peatland restoration as a priority. achieving national greenhouse gas emissions The connectivity of biodiversity rich areas reduction targets. may be enhanced through nature networks, including corridors and stepping stones to Policy impact: provide enhanced natural capital and improved  Compact urban growth ecosystem services.  Local living Location  Rebalanced development Central Scotland local authorities within a boundary identified by the Green Action Trust.  Conserving and recycling assets  Rural revitalisation Need This national development is needed to improve  Just transition quality of place and create new opportunities for investment. This will support delivery of our spatial strategy which highlights the importance of accelerating urban greening in this most densely populated part of Scotland. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 108

8 — National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling Designation and classes of development

8. National Walking, Cycling and Wheeling Designation and classes of development Network A development contributing to ‘National Walking, This national development facilitates the shift Cycling and Wheeling Network’ in the location from vehicles to walking, cycling and wheeling described, within one or more of the Classes of for everyday journeys contributing to reducing Development described below and that is of a greenhouse gas emissions from transport and is scale or type that would otherwise have been highly beneficial for health and wellbeing. classified as ‘major’ by ‘The Town and Country Planning (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) The upgrading and provision of additional Regulations 2009’ is designated a national active travel infrastructure will be fundamental development: to the development of a sustainable travel a) New/and or upgraded routes suitable for network providing access to settlements, key a range of users for walking, cycling and services and amenities, employment and multi- wheeling that help create a national network modal hubs. Infrastructure investment should that facilitates short and longer distance be prioritised for locations where it will achieve journeys and linkages to multi-modal hubs. our National Transport Strategy 2 priorities and outcomes, to reduce inequalities, take climate Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions action, help deliver a wellbeing economy and to assessment improve health and wellbeing. This will help to Depending on the nature of the projects taken deliver great places to live and work, including forward and considering both direct and indirect through connecting neighbourhoods, villages effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions and towns, active freeways and long distance assessment concludes this development will routes. likely have an overall net positive impact on achieving national greenhouse gas emissions Location reduction targets. All Scotland. Need Policy impact: Reducing the need to travel unsustainably is  Compact urban growth the highest priority in the sustainable transport  Local living investment hierarchy. This national development will significantly support modal shift and deliver  Rebalanced development multiple outcomes including our commitment  Just transition to a 20% reduction in car kilometres by 2030, associated emissions reduction, health and air quality improvement. This will support the delivery of our spatial strategy by creating a more sustainable distribution of access across Scotland as a whole. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 109

9 — Edinburgh Waterfront Designation and classes of development

9. Edinburgh Waterfront Designation and classes of development This national development supports the A development contributing to ‘Edinburgh regeneration of strategic sites along the Forth Waterfront’ in the location described, within one Waterfront in Edinburgh. or more of the Classes of Development described below and that would otherwise have been of The waterfront is a strategic asset that a scale or type that is classified as ‘major’ by contributes to the city’s character and sense of ‘The Town and Country Planning (Hierarchy of place and includes significant opportunities for a Developments) (Scotland) Regulations 2009’, is wide range of future developments. designated a national development: Development will include high quality mixed use a) New and/or upgraded buildings for mixed use proposals that optimise the use of the strategic and/or residential development; asset for residential, community, commercial and b) New and/or upgraded buildings for industrial purposes, including support for off- commercial, industrial, business use; shore energy relating to port uses. Further cruise activity should take into account the need to c) New and/or upgraded utilities; manage impacts on transport infrastructure. d) New and/or upgraded green and blue infrastructure; This will help maintain and grow Edinburgh’s position as a capital city and commercial e) New and/or upgraded active and sustainable centre with a high quality and accessible living travel routes; and environment. Development locations and design f) New and/or upgraded port facilities for vessel will need to address future resilience to the berthing and related landside activities risks from climate change, impact on health including for lay-down, and marine sector inequalities, and the potential to incorporate services. green and blue infrastructure. Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions Location assessment Leith to Granton. Depending on the nature of the projects taken forward and considering both direct and indirect Need effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions Waterfronts in our largest urban areas are assessment concludes this development will frequently under-utilised and contain significant likely have an overall net positive impact on areas of brownfield land as well as existing achieving national greenhouse gas emissions infrastructure assets. Their location may be reduction targets. particularly vulnerable to climate change and likely risks will require careful management. This will support delivery of our spatial strategy, which Policy impact: recognises the importance of our urban coastline  Compact urban growth in supporting our sense of place, economy and  Local living wellbeing.  Rebalanced development  Conserving and recycling assets  Just transition Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 110

10 — Dundee Waterfront Designation and classes of development

10. Dundee Waterfront Designation and classes of development A development contributing to ‘Dundee This national development supports the Waterfront’ in the location described, within redevelopment of the Dundee Waterfront Zones one or more of the Classes of Development including: the Central Waterfront, Seabraes, City described below and that would otherwise Quay, Dundee Port, Riverside Business Area have been of a scale or type that is classified and Nature Park, and the Michelin Scotland as ‘major’ by ‘The Town and Country Planning Innovation Parc. (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) Continued delivery of the waterfront transformation Regulations 2009’ is designated a national is crucial to securing the role of the city as a development: location for investment in the net zero economy. a) New and/or upgraded buildings for mixed use Supporting population growth alongside and/or residential development; economic opportunities, and skills and career b) New and/or upgraded buildings for commercial, development, is important in continuing to industrial, business, storage, distribution, demonstrate the sustainability of urban living research, educational, and/or tourism use; in Scotland and a just transition to the net zero c) New and/or upgraded utilities; economy. d) New and/or upgraded active and sustainable Further projects associated with this include: travel routes; the Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc which e) New and/or upgraded port facilities for vessel will become an innovation hub for net zero berthing and related landside activities emission mobility; the Eden Project; and an including for lay-down, freight handling and improvement of facilities at Dundee Port. This marine sector services; and national development includes reusing land on f) New and/or upgraded green and blue and around the Dundee Waterfront to support infrastructure. the lifelong health and wellbeing of communities, Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions deliver innovation and attract investment. As the assessment development progresses it will be important to Depending on the nature of the projects taken support sustainable and active transport options forward and considering both direct and indirect and to build in adaptation to future climate risks. effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions Location assessment concludes this development will Dundee Waterfront zones: Central Waterfront, likely have an overall net positive impact on Seabraes, City Quay, Dundee Port, Riverside achieving national greenhouse gas emissions Business Area and Riverside Nature Park; reduction targets. Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc. Need Policy impact: This national development supports the  Compact urban growth continued revitalisation of Dundee Waterfront,  Local living expanded to include Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc in support of the Tay Cities  Rebalanced development Region Economic Strategy and its continued  Conserving and recycling assets use for economic purposes. Waterfront locations  Just transition may be particularly vulnerable to climate change and so development requires to be carefully designed to manage likely risks. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 111

11 — Stranraer Gateway Designation and classes of development

11. Stranraer Gateway Designation and classes of development This national development supports the A development contributing to ‘Stranraer regeneration of Stranraer. Gateway’ in the location described within one or more of the Classes of Development described Stranraer is a gateway town. It is located close below and that would otherwise have been of to Cairnryan, a key port connecting Scotland to a scale or type that is classified as ‘major’ by Northern Ireland, Ireland and beyond to wider ‘The Town and Country Planning (Hierarchy of markets. Developments) (Scotland) Regulations 2009’, is designated a national development: High quality place-based regeneration will help address socio-economic inequalities in a) Development contributing to Stranraer Stranraer and to support the wider population Waterfront regeneration; of south west Scotland by acting as a hub and b) Marina expansion; providing a platform for future investment. This c) Redevelopment of Stranraer harbour east pier; will be supported by any strategic transport d) Sustainable, road, rail and freight interventions including road and rail that emerge infrastructure for access to Stranraer and/or from the second Strategic Transport Projects Cairnryan; Review which embeds the National Transport e) New and/or upgraded infrastructure for the Strategy’s sustainable travel and investment transportation and use of low carbon fuels; hierarchies. and Location f) Reuse of vacant and derelict buildings and Stranraer and associated transport routes. brownfield land, including regeneration of Blackparks industrial estate. Need Loch Ryan and Stranraer act as a gateway to Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions Scotland. Reusing the assets in this location will assessment support the wellbeing, economy and community Depending on the nature of the projects taken in line with the regional growth deal. It will help forward and considering both direct and indirect to deliver our spatial strategy by driving forward effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions regeneration of a key hub. assessment concludes this development will likely have an overall net positive impact on achieving national greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets. Policy impact:  Compact urban growth  Local living  Rebalanced development  Conserving and recycling assets  Rural revitalisation  Just transition Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 112

12 — Digital Fibre Network Designation and classes of development

12. Digital Fibre Network Designation and classes of development This national development supports the A development contributing to ‘Digital Fibre continued roll-out of world-class broadband Network’ in the location described, within one or across Scotland. more of the Classes of Development described below and that is of a scale or type that would Our strategy requires enhanced digital otherwise have been classified as ‘major’ by connectivity to provide high speed broadband ‘The Town and Country Planning (Hierarchy of or equivalent mobile services, prioritising those Developments) (Scotland) Regulations 2009’, is areas with weaker networks as part of the designated a national development: Reaching 100% (R100) programme and Project a) Installation of new and/or upgraded Gigabit, including urban, island specific and broadband cabling on land and sub-sea for rural enhancements. This is a significant utility fixed line and mobile networks; and including 4G and 5G mobile infrastructure facilitating home based working, renewable b) Green data centres. energy development, rural repopulation and Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions access to services. The data transmission assessment network can also support the availability and use Depending on the nature of the projects taken of ‘big data.’ Digital capability is a feature of a forward and considering both direct and indirect number of City Region and Growth Deals. effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions assessment concludes this development will Opportunities should be taken to deliver the likely have an overall negligible impact on infrastructure as part of other infrastructure achieving national greenhouse gas emissions upgrades or installation works such as energy reduction targets. transmission, transportation, and travel networks where appropriate. Policy impact: Location  Local living All Scotland.  Rebalanced development Need  Rural revitalisation This is a fundamentally important utility, required  Just transition to support development, community wellbeing, equal access to goods and services, and emissions reduction from reduced demand for travel. This will help to deliver our spatial strategy by complementing a new emphasis of living locally, and by helping to sustain and grow rural and island communities. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 113

13 — Clyde Mission Designation and classes of development

13. Clyde Mission Designation and classes of development This national development is a national, place- A development contributing to ‘Clyde Mission’ based Mission to make the Clyde an engine of in the location described, within one or more economic success for Glasgow, the city region of the Classes of Development described and Scotland. below and that would otherwise have been of a scale or type that is classified as ‘major’ by The Clyde Mission is focused on the River Clyde ‘The Town and Country Planning (Hierarchy of and the riverside from South Lanarkshire in the Developments) (Scotland) Regulations 2009’, is east to Inverclyde and Argyll and Bute in the designated a national development: west and focusing on an area up to around a) Mixed use, which may include residential, 500 metres from the river edge. This footprint redevelopment of brownfield land; includes the parts of the Clyde Gateway, River Clyde Waterfront, North Clyde River Bank and b) New, reused and/or upgraded buildings and River Clyde Corridor frameworks, and Glasgow facilities for residential, commercial, business Riverside Innovation District. and industrial uses on brownfield land; c) Upgrade of existing port and harbour assets Across this area significant land assets are for servicing marine functions including under-utilised, and longstanding inequality, freight and cruise uses and associated in relation to poor environment and health landside commercial and/or industrial land for outcomes require to be tackled as a national supporting services; priority. An ambitious redevelopment programme d) New and/or upgraded active and sustainable is being taken forward under Five Missions. It is travel and recreation routes and infrastructure; a collective, cross-sector effort and partnership and working will help bring forward assets and sites that are ready for redevelopment to sustain e) New and/or upgraded infrastructure for a range of uses. This will repurpose and climate adaptation, including nature-based, reinvigorate brownfield and supporting local green and blue solutions. living as well as adapting the area to the impacts Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions of climate change, where nature-based solutions assessment would be particularly supported. Depending on the nature of the projects taken Location forward and considering both direct and indirect The river and land immediately next to it (up to effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions around 500 metres from the river) along its length. assessment concludes this development will likely have an overall net negative impact on Need achieving national greenhouse gas emissions These classes of development revitalise a major reduction targets. waterfront asset which is currently under-utilised. This will support the delivery of our spatial Policy impact: strategy by attracting investment and reuse of brownfield land in west central Scotland where  Compact urban growth there is a particular need to improve quality  Local living of place, generate employment and support  Rebalanced development disadvantaged communities. It will also support adaptation to climate risks.  Conserving and recycling assets Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 114

14 — Aberdeen Harbour deliver our spatial strategy by helping the north

14. Aberdeen Harbour deliver our spatial strategy by helping the north This national development supports the east of Scotland to achieve a just transition from continued relocation and repurposing of a high carbon economy whilst improving quality Aberdeen Harbour. The harbour is a strategically of place. important asset supporting the economy of the Designation and classes of development north east of Scotland. A development contributing to ‘Aberdeen The south harbour can act as a cluster of Harbour’ in the location described, within one or port accessible offshore renewable energy more of the Classes of Development described research, manufacturing and support services. below and that would otherwise have been of The facilities are also important for international a scale or type that is classified as ‘major’ by connections. ‘The Town and Country Planning (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) Regulations 2009’ is At the south harbour the focus should be designated a national development: on regenerating existing industrial land and a) Mixed use development reusing land at the reorganising land use around the harbour in line existing (north) Aberdeen Harbour; with the spatial strategy of the LDP. By focusing future port activity here, parts of the existing b) Upgraded port facilities at Aberdeen Harbour harbour in the city centre will become available and completion of South Harbour; for mixed use development, opening up c) New and/or upgraded green infrastructure; development land to help reinvigorate Aberdeen city centre. d) Buildings and facilities for commercial, manufacturing and industrial uses; This can help provide significant economic e) Infrastructure for the production, storage and opportunities, in line with the objectives of the transportation of low carbon and renewable Aberdeen City Region Deal. Environmental hydrogen and related chemicals including benefits, for example to enhance access ammonia, with carbon capture as necessary; and improve the quality of green space and and active travel options should be designed-in to help offset any potential impacts on the f) Transport infrastructure, including for amenity of local communities with relevant sustainable and active travel, for the South projects addressing environmental sensitivities Harbour as supported by the Aberdeen City through careful planning, assessment and Region Deal. implementation. Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions The extent to which this should include assessment additional business and industrial development Depending on the nature of the projects taken outwith the existing north and south harbours forward and considering both direct and indirect is a matter to be determined in the relevant effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions LDP, and is outwith the scope of this national assessment concludes this development will development. likely have an overall net positive impact on achieving national greenhouse gas emissions Location reduction targets. Port of Aberdeen North and South Harbours. Policy impact: This national development supports the optimisation of Aberdeen Harbour to support net  Local living zero and stimulate economic investment. It is  Rebalanced development also a significant opportunity to support better placemaking including city centre transformation,  Conserving and recycling assets and regeneration of existing land by optimising  Just transition the use of new and existing assets. This will Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 115

15 — Industrial Green Transition Zones term and benefit from the experience gained

15. Industrial Green Transition Zones term and benefit from the experience gained within the Scottish Cluster but do not form part To secure a just transition to a net zero of this national development. This national economy, the decarbonisation of nationally development will support the generation of important industrial sites in a way that ensures significant economic opportunities for low continued jobs, investment and prosperity for carbon industry as well as minimising carbon these areas and the communities that depend emissions at scale, and will play a vital part on them is essential. Industrial Green Transition in maintaining the security and operability Zones (IGTZ) will support the generation of Scotland’s electricity supply and network. of significant economic opportunities while The creation of hydrogen and deployment minimising carbon emissions. Technologies that of negative emissions technologies, utilising will help Scotland transition to net zero will be CCUS, at commercial scale will establish supported at these locations, with a particular the opportunities to decarbonise industry, focus on low carbon and zero emissions transport and heat, as well as other sectors, technologies including renewables and the and pave the way for the transportation and generation, storage and distribution of low storage infrastructure to support the growing carbon hydrogen. hydrogen economy in Scotland. The deployment of hydrogen and CCUS at these • Grangemouth investment zone currently locations must demonstrate decarbonisation hosts strategic and critical infrastructure, at pace and cannot be used to justify high value employment and manufacturing of unsustainable levels of fossil fuel extraction or materials that are currently vital for every-day impede Scotland’s just transition to net zero. life. This role will continue in the long-term but Hydrogen and CCUS are emerging industries, must seek to decarbonise given the significant both government and industry in Scotland wish contribution of the industrial activities to to accelerate and maximise the deployment Scotland’s emissions. It is a key location in of green hydrogen. For projects that utilise the Scottish Cluster for carbon capture and carbon capture and storage, we want to ensure storage, and hydrogen deployment. The the highest possible carbon capture rates in Grangemouth Investment Zone will be a focus the deployment of these technologies. While for transitioning the petro-chemicals industry there are examples internationally where CCUS and associated activities into a leading projects have been associated with offshore exemplar of industrial decarbonisation, Enhanced Oil Recovery, we understand there to significantly helped through the coordination be no plans for offshore Enhanced Oil Recovery activities of the Scottish Government’s as part of the Scottish Cluster. However, if any Grangemouth Future Industry Board. IGTZ is found to be incompatible with Scotland’s Decarbonisation could include opportunities transition to net zero, Scottish Government for: renewable energy innovation; bioenergy; policy, along with designations of and classes of hydrogen production with carbon capture and development, will change accordingly. storage; and repurposing of existing strategic and critical infrastructure such as pipelines. Industrial Green Transition Zones are: • The Scottish Cluster encompasses a carbon Location capture and storage (CCS) projects network St Fergus, Peterhead, and Grangemouth. and is a key strategic vehicle for industrial Need decarbonisation, energy generation, and This national development is required to meet the transportation and storage of captured our targets for emissions reduction. It also carbon. The designation relates to projects supports a just transition by creating new jobs in that form a Scottish Cluster in the first emerging technologies and significant economic instance specifically Peterhead, St Fergus opportunities for lower carbon industry. It will and Grangemouth. Further industrial transition help to decarbonise other sectors, sites and sites are expected to emerge in the longer regions, paving the way for increasing demand Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 116 to be complemented by the production of j) Production, storage and transportation further hydrogen in the future. This will also help with appropriate emissions abatement of: to deliver our spatial strategy by supporting bioenergy; hydrogen production related investment in the North East and the Central Belt chemicals including ammonia; where there has been a relatively high level of k) New and/or upgraded buildings for industrial, output from fossil fuel industries. manufacturing, business, and educational Designation and classes of development or research uses related to the industrial A development contributing to ‘Industrial transition; Green Transition Zones’ in the location l) Town centre regeneration at Grangemouth; described, within one or more of the Classes of m)Grangemouth flood protection scheme; Development described below and that would otherwise have been of a scale or type that is n) New and/or upgraded green and blue classified as ‘major’ by ‘The Town and Country infrastructure; Planning (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) o) New and/or upgraded utilities and/or local Regulations 2009’ is designated a national energy network; and development. p) New and/or upgraded facilities at the port for a) Carbon capture with high capture rates and inter-modal freight handling at Grangemouth. negative emission technologies, transportation and storage of captured carbon forming part Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions of or helping to create an expandable national assessment network; Depending on the nature of the projects taken forward and considering both direct and indirect b) Pipeline for transportation and storage of effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions captured carbon and/or hydrogen; assessment concludes this development will c) Onshore infrastructure including compression likely have an overall net positive effect on equipment, supporting pipeline transportation lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions reductions and shipping transportation of captured targets. carbon and/or hydrogen; d) Offshore storage of captured carbon; Policy impact: e) New and/or upgraded buildings and facilities  Compact urban growth for the utilisation of captured carbon;  Local living f) Infrastructure for the production of hydrogen  Rebalanced development on shore or off shore where co-located with  Conserving and recycling assets off shore wind farms within 0-12 nautical miles;  Rural revitalisation g) Infrastructure for the storage of hydrogen on  Just transition shore or off shore, including on or near-shore geological storage; h) Port facilities for the transport and handling of hydrogen and carbon dioxide; i) The application of carbon capture and storage technology to existing or replacement thermal power generation capacity; Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 117

16 — Hunterston Strategic Asset Need

16. Hunterston Strategic Asset Need This national development supports the These classes of development support the repurposing of Hunterston port as well as the redevelopment and reuse of existing strategic adjacent former nuclear power station sites and assets and land contributing to a net zero marketable business land of the Hunterston economy. It also supports delivery of our spatial Estate. Hunterston has long been recognised strategy by stimulating investment in the west as a strategic location for the port and energy of Scotland, potentially contributing to the wider sectors given its deepwater access and existing aim of tackling inequalities. infrastructure. Hunterston is a key site, anchoring Designation and classes of development other opportunities around the Firth of Clyde. A development contributing to ‘Hunterston The location and infrastructure offers potential Strategic Asset’ in the location described within for electricity generation from renewables, one or more of the Classes of Development and a variety of commercial uses including described below and that would otherwise port, research and development, aquaculture, have been of a scale or type that is classified the circular economy, and environmental as ‘major’ by ‘The Town and Country Planning and economic opportunities around nuclear (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) decommissioning expertise. Regulations 2009’, is designated a national development: New development will need to optimise the a) Infrastructure to support a multi-modal deep capacity of the transport network, include water harbour; active travel links and be compatible with a location adjacent to sites with nuclear power b) Land and buildings for bulk handling, storage, uses. Designated biodiversity sites will require processing and distribution; protection and enhancement where possible, c) Facilities for marine energy generation and sustainable flood risk management solutions technology fabrication and decommissioning; will be required for the area. Aligned with the Ayrshire Growth Deal, jointly funded by the d) Facilities for marine energy servicing; Scottish and UK Governments, investment in this e) Land and buildings for industrial, commercial, location will support a wellbeing economy by research and development, and training uses; opening up opportunities for employment and f) Infrastructure for the capture, transportation training for local people. A community wealth and long-term storage of greenhouse gas building approach has been embedded within emissions, where transportation may be by the Deal and Regional Economic Strategy within pipe or vehicular means; Ayrshire, and would be expected to form a part of future development proposals to ensure the g) Infrastructure for the production, storage and economic benefits are retained locally as far as transportation of low carbon and renewable possible, strengthening local supply chains and hydrogen; and hydrogen production related supporting businesses and communities across chemicals including ammonia; Ayrshire. h) Infrastructure for the generation and storage of electricity from renewables exceeding 50 Location megawatts; and Hunterston Port, nuclear power station sites and marketable employment land at Hunterston i) Electricity transmission infrastructure of 132kv Estate. or more. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 118 Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions assessment Depending on the nature of the projects taken forward and considering both direct and indirect effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions assessment concludes this development will likely have an overall net positive impact on achieving national greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets. Policy impact:  Compact urban growth  Local living  Rebalanced development  Conserving and recycling assets  Rural revitalisation  Just transition Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 119

17 — Chapelcross Power Station Designation and classes of development

17. Chapelcross Power Station Designation and classes of development Redevelopment A development contributing to ‘Chapelcross Power Station Redevelopment’ in the location This national development supports the described, within one or more of the Classes of redevelopment of Chapelcross, a former nuclear Development described below and that would power station site of significant scale regionally otherwise have been of a scale or type that is and nationally, and our strategy supports the classified as ‘major’ by ‘The Town and Country reuse of the site to help deliver on net zero and Planning (Hierarchy of Developments) (Scotland) provide opportunities for communities in the Regulations 2009’, is designated a national South of Scotland. development: Final uses for the site remain to be agreed, a) Commercial, industrial, manufacturing, and but the site has locational advantage to act as office related development occurring on the an energy hub with opportunities including: Chapelcross development site; business development with a particular focus on energy and energy supply chain; energy b) Generation of electricity from renewables generation from solar; electricity storage; exceeding 50 megawatts capacity; generation of heat; production and storage of c) Infrastructure for the production, storage and low carbon and renewable hydrogen. This could transportation of low carbon and renewable link to ambitions for low carbon heat and vehicle hydrogen and related chemicals including fuel at Stranraer. ammonia, with carbon capture as necessary; and The proposal aims to create new job opportunities, including high value employment. d) Active and sustainable travel connection to A community wealth building approach will the site. ensure that benefits are retained locally as far as possible, and this in turn will help to sustain Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions and grow the local population. We also support assessment opportunities to reduce the fuel costs for local Depending on the nature of the projects taken communities to tackle fuel poverty. Sustainable forward and considering both direct and indirect access to the site for workers and commercial effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions vehicles will be required. assessment concludes this development will likely have an overall net positive impact on Location achieving national greenhouse gas emissions Site of the former Chapelcross power station. reduction targets. Need This national development supports the reuse Policy impact: of a significant area of brownfield land in a rural  Local living area with economically fragile communities. It will  Rebalanced development also support the just transition to net zero.  Conserving and recycling assets  Rural revitalisation  Just transition Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 120

18 — High Speed Rail Designation and classes of development

18. High Speed Rail Designation and classes of development This national development supports the A development contributing to ‘High Speed implementation of increased infrastructure to Rail’ in the location described, within one or improve rail capacity and connectivity on the more of the Classes of Development described main cross-border routes, the east and west below and that is of a scale or type that would coast mainlines. otherwise have been classified as ‘major’ by ‘The Town and Country Planning (Hierarchy of Rail connectivity that can effectively compete Developments) (Scotland) Regulations 2009’, is with air and road based transport between the designated a national development: major towns and cities in Scotland, England a) New and/or upgraded railway track and and onward to Europe is an essential part of electrification solution (overhead cabling and reducing transport emissions, making best pylons or on track); use of the rail network and providing greater connectivity opportunities. There can be b) New and/or upgraded multi-modal railway significant emissions savings of approximately stations to service high-speed lines; and 75% to be made when freight is transported by c) Depot facilities for high speed trains and/ rail instead of road. or related to the construction and onward maintenance of the UK high-speed rail Enhancement would be in addition to and in infrastructure. conjunction with High Speed 2 (HS2) and other enhancements identified by the UK Government. Lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions assessment Scottish Ministers have an agreement with Depending on the nature of the projects taken the UK Government to develop infrastructure forward and considering both direct and indirect enhancements ‘North of HS2’ and Scottish effects, the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions Ministers continue to press the UK Government assessment concludes this development will on the imperative that all nations and regions likely have an overall net positive impact on of Britain benefit from the prosperity that HS2 achieving national greenhouse gas emissions will deliver both in its construction and its reduction targets. implementation. The Strategic Transport Projects Review 2 is appraising through recommendation 45 and will provide the strategic case for Policy impact: investment in the rail network in Scotland, over  Compact urban growth and above the commitments within HS2.  Conserving and recycling assets Location Central and southern Scotland to the border with England. Need This national development aims to ensure a low emissions air-competitive journey time to cities in the UK as well as connectivity with European cities and benefits to freight. This will support Scotland’s ability to attract and compete for investment. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 121 Annex C – Spatial Planning Priorities This information is intended to guide the offset carbon and secure existing natural preparation of Regional Spatial Strategies and carbon stores. The Lewis Peatlands and the LDPs to help deliver Scotland’s national spatial Flow Country are internationally recognised strategy. as accounting for a significant proportion of the world’s blanket bog habitat, and there are North and West Coast and Islands opportunities to protect and expand Scotland’s This area broadly comprises the island temperate rainforest, including some of the best communities of Shetland, Orkney, the Outer remaining rainforest sites in Europe. Access to Hebrides, and parts of Highland and Argyll and the outdoors, as well as active travel, can benefit Bute, and the north and west coastline of the from continued investment in long distance Scottish mainland. walking and cycling routes with a range of projects emerging at a regional scale. To deliver sustainable places, Regional Communities in this area will need resilient Spatial Strategies and Local Development transport connectivity to maintain accessibility Plans should maximise the benefits of and lifeline links, and further innovation will be renewable energy whilst enhancing blue required to help modernise connections and and green infrastructure, decarbonising decarbonise transport systems. A net zero transport and building resilient islands air network and decarbonisation of ferry connections. services will help to secure the viability and service stability of island and remote coastal communities. Communities are keen to explore This area’s natural and cultural assets will long-term ambitions for fixed links for example require careful planning and management so across the Sound of Harris and Sound of Barra, that their special qualities can continue to form and potentially to connect the Outer Hebrides a strong foundation for future development and to mainland Scotland. An Islands Connectivity investment. There are opportunities for local Plan will consider the role of ferries, fixed links projects across this area to come together and low carbon aviation in securing lifeline and create an enhanced nature network links and marine access for both leisure and which benefits quality of life and contributes to freight. In addition to the investment potential biodiversity recovery and restoration as well as of the area’s ports and harbours, the strategic carbon sequestration. location of the Northern Isles as a hub for future Resilience and a growing green economy shipping using long distance trade routes has will depend on delivery of improved grid significant potential for investment and growth connections, including high voltage grid cables over the longer term. There is also potential to connecting the three island groups to the consider decarbonisation of fishing fleets and mainland. This will be complemented by the the aquaculture industry in the future. innovation in low and zero carbon fuels and the Electric vehicle ownership is already high in roll out of locally distributed energy systems some parts of the area and continued expansion to reduce emissions from buildings, address of charging networks will support further significant fuel poverty and secure longer term decarbonisation. Key routes and hubs are resilience. emerging – examples include the aspiration for Significant peatland restoration and woodland an electric spinal route that extends across the creation and restoration, along with blue carbon Outer Hebrides. This should be viewed as one opportunities will secure wider biodiversity part of a wider system response to net zero that benefits and be a focus for investment to also strengthens active travel across the area. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 122 Improved digital connectivity is a priority to Regionally and locally driven plans and sustain current businesses and create ‘smart’ strategies will identify areas for future communities. We are committed to investment development that reflect these principles – for in ultrafast broadband to ensure every property example planned population growth on the is connected and to improve mobile coverage. Western Seaboard of Argyll and in a growth This will unlock opportunities for rural businesses corridor from Tobermory to Oban and on to and remote working, and make future community Dalmally. Community hubs, where people can growth more feasible. Full benefits will be easily access a variety of services, will need realised by actively tackling the digital divide to evolve and grow to support communities by building skills, literacy and learning and and sustain a range of functions. Ports and addressing the financial barriers to internet harbours can be a focal point for electric vehicle access. Key projects include the Outer Hebrides charging as well as employment. Sustainable Giga Fibre Network and the North Isles Fibre and fair access to affordable healthier food will Project. support future resilience and broader objectives including reduced child poverty and improved health outcomes. Innovative and equitable To deliver liveable places, Regional Spatial service provision, including digital solutions, will Strategies and Local Development Plans be needed to support dispersed communities in in this area should support coastal and a low carbon way. island communities to become carbon neutral, thus contributing to net-zero Communities will need greater choice and commitments and reducing fuel poverty. more flexible and affordable homes to support varying needs. This can be achieved to an Future-proofing local liveability will benefit extent by refurbishing the existing building stock people as well as the planet. Island and coastal to reduce the release of embedded carbon, as communities can apply the concept of local well as by delivering more affordable, energy living, including 20 minute neighbourhoods, in efficient homes. The additional costs of island a flexible way and find local solutions to low homebuilding and development generally, as carbon living, for example by identifying service well as in delivering net zero, is a challenge that hubs in key locations with good public transport needs to be factored into a planned approach. links. The aim is to build long-term resilience and self-reliance by minimising the need to There is a clear need for affordable housing travel whilst sustaining dispersed communities provision across the region to improve choice and rural patterns of development. Communities and access to homes, to support local in this area will continue to rely to an extent on economies, and in some areas to help offset the the private car, and low carbon solutions to the impact of second home ownership and short provision of services will need to be practical term lets on the market. Local solutions may and affordable. Innovation including electric include key worker housing, temporary homes vehicle charging and digital connectivity will play for workers in remote areas, and self-provided an important role. homes including self-build and custom-build. Continued innovation of holistic place-based Increased coastal flooding and erosion arising solutions, such as the Rural and Islands Housing from future climate change will need to be Fund, will be required to create homes that meet considered along with impacts on associated diverse community needs, including homes for infrastructure such as bridges and transport an ageing population and to help young people networks. The majority of island populations live to stay in or return to their communities. Greater in coastal locations and there is a need for a efforts to ensure young people have more pro-active and innovative approach that works influence in decisions that affect their future with local communities to address this issue. places could support this, as well as helping more people access land and crofts and the reuse of abandoned sites where appropriate. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 123 To reverse past depopulation and support As a result of its natural advantages, the area existing settlements, planning can help to is growing its research excellence, and driving sustain communities in more peripheral and low-carbon is a core theme of the Islands fragile areas in a way that is compatible with Growth Deal. This will support the emergence our low carbon agenda and resilient to climate of the planned joint Islands Centre for Net Zero, change impacts. Further action should be taken alongside island-specific initiatives. Orkney has where appropriate to encourage economically been home to the European Marine Energy active people to previously inhabited areas. This Centre since 2003 and the Orkney Research will also need to reflect climate commitments and Innovation Campus (ORIC) in Stromness and wider aspirations to create sustainable provides a focus for Orkney’s renewable and places that incorporate principles of 20 minute low carbon industries and research facilities. neighbourhoods and active travel networks. There are plans to grow the role of Orkney’s Coasts will continue to evolve, and development ports and harbours to support net zero. The will be needed to sustain and grow communities Outer Hebrides Energy Hub plans to establish in a sustainable way. Collaboration and strong the initial infrastructure necessary to support alignment of terrestrial and marine planning, at the production of low carbon hydrogen from all levels, will also be needed. renewable energy and conduct a ‘large village’ trial for Stornoway, and there may also be co- benefits to be gained for aquaculture in the area. To deliver productive places, Regional Shetland aims to grow its net zero contribution Spatial Strategies and Local Development including through a planned ultra-deep water Plans in this area should seize the port development, which would support servicing opportunities to grow the blue and green the energy sector, oil and gas decommissioning economy, recognising the world-class and large-scale offshore renewables. In addition, environmental assets that require careful Oban is developing as a university town, and management and the opportunities to the European Marine Science Park is a key develop skills and diversify employment. opportunity to build the local economy and provide education locally. This area has significant opportunities for investment that capitalise on its natural assets Sea ports are a focus for investment in the blue and further strengthen the synergies between economy and further diversification of activities people, land and sea. This will require strong could generate additional employment across collaboration and alignment of terrestrial the area. Potential for business development and marine planning, especially as further ranges from long distance freight to supporting development of related blue economy activities the cruise and marine leisure sectors and in the terrestrial environment may increase decommissioning opportunities. There may competition for marine space and resources also be opportunity for ports in the islands to offshore. To significantly reduce greenhouse gas establish themselves as near-Arctic marine emissions, more onshore and offshore renewable transport and logistics hubs, including for energy generation will be needed, bringing transhipment operations. unprecedented opportunities to strengthen local economies, build community wealth and secure There is an aspiration for the servicing of ultra long-term sustainability. The island authorities large container ships with associated facilities have set targets for creating green jobs and for within Scapa Flow. The potential for such rolling out clean and efficient energy systems development to adversely affect European site(s) to build local resilience. We expect to see has been identified through the HRA of NPF4. continued innovation to unlock the infrastructure Therefore, this would need to be considered and business opportunities arising from a blue carefully at project level, including through the and green prosperity agenda. Habitats Regulations Appraisal process, to ascertain that there will be no adverse effects on Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 124 the integrity of European sites, or if this is not the onshore aquaculture at sites across Scotland. case, whether there are imperative reasons of Within Orkney, farming is still the main industry over-riding public interest and relevant statutory providing products for local consumption and for tests can be met. Scotland’s food and drink sector. New infrastructure and repurposing of land will Targeted investment in tourism infrastructure will help to shift industrial activity towards supporting ensure the coast and islands can capitalise on the offshore renewables sector. Key strategic their rich natural assets, heritage and culture to sites for industrial investment and associated support better quality and more stable jobs in port infrastructure and facilities include plans for: the sector whilst providing a positive experience Dales Voe and Scapa Flow as part of the Islands for visitors and residents. This sector has Growth Deal; Cullivoe; Arnish in Stornoway; been significantly impacted by the pandemic Wick; Scrabster; Gills Bay; Kishorn; Oban; Port and a short term focus on recovery can be Askaig; and Hatston, Kirkwall. Other key nodes underpinned by efforts to secure longer term on the ferries network, including Ullapool, Uig sustainability. Planning can help to ensure that and Mallaig, will continue to act as important the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund is targeted hubs to support communities, investors and to places where the pressure is most significant. visitors. Priorities include visitor management of the area’s World Heritage Sites. Through the Islands Proposed space ports, which make use of Growth Deal, plans are in place for the Orkney the area’s relatively remote location and free World Heritage Site Gateway that will manage airspace, could support our national ambitions to and disperse visitors to the Heart of Neolithic grow this sector. This includes plans for an Outer Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site; and Hebrides Spaceport 1 in Scolpaig, North Uist the Outer Hebrides Destination Development and an emphasis on space research and skills Project will support the strategic development development in Shetland as part of the Islands of tourism infrastructure, bringing together key Growth Deal, a space port at Machrihanish assets including St Kilda World Heritage Site, and ancillary buildings at Benbecula. Planning the Iolaire Centre, the Hebridean Way, Food and permission has been granted for a space port Drinks trail and the Callanish standing stones. at Melness in Sutherland, making use of its Other ongoing projects, including long distance location away from populated areas to provide a routes such as the Kintyre Way and the Argyll vertical launch facility that could link with wider Sea Kayak Trail and Crinan Canal can help to opportunities for manufacturing, research and expand a high quality offer of exceptional marine development across Scotland. tourism across the area as a whole. Food and drink is a key sector, with aquaculture, Regionally and locally there is a need for smaller distilleries, commercial fishing, and seaweed scale investment across the area to put in place farming providing a crucial and growing source low maintenance, carefully designed facilities of employment for many local communities. This which better support and manage the impact of sector is of national significance, with whisky informal tourism including camping, campervans generating an estimated £5 billion to the UK and day trips. This should reflect the scale and economy and salmon accounting for more than nature of operators including community trusts, 40% of total food exports. By improving the which can have broad impact and influence. resilience of existing infrastructure we will ensure Efforts to provide access to education and continued access to international markets. build skills locally will also support this, with key There are significant opportunities to build on projects including plans for the redevelopment experience and expertise through associated of the Shetland Campus. Additionally, the research and development. A development lessons we have learned from the pandemic hub at Machrihanish to support aquaculture about remote working could also help to grow research in association with Stirling University communities by extending the range of high could open up wider opportunities to expand quality jobs available locally. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 125 North strengthen and diversify local economies and This area broadly includes parts of Highland help to secure a sustainable future for local with parts of Argyll and Bute, Moray, Cairngorms people. The area’s rivers are also strategic National Park, as well as the north of Loch assets that will continue to benefit from aligned Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Stirling land use, climate adaptation and biodiversity and Perth and Kinross, with links west and north enhancement. to coastal and island communities. The Cairngorms National Park is bringing Priorities together conservation, the visitor experience and rural development to provide benefits that extend To deliver sustainable places, Regional well beyond the park boundary. Landscape- Spatial Strategies and Local Development scale solutions to build resilience to climate Plans in this area should protect change, to manage sustainable tourism and environmental assets and stimulate outdoor access, and a commitment to reversing investment in natural and engineered biodiversity decline and increasing woodland solutions to climate change and nature expansion and peatland restoration, are all key restoration, whilst decarbonising transport priorities. Demand for development, including in and building resilient connections. pressured areas, will require a planned response to minimise the impact of second homes on The area’s natural capital will play a vital role local communities and ensure new homes are in locking in carbon and building our resilience affordable and meet local needs. by providing valuable ecosystem services. This This area also makes an important contribution includes sustainable flood risk management, to our climate change targets by supporting biodiversity, access and education. renewable energy generation. Repowering and Land and sea assets will play an internationally extending existing wind farms will optimise significant role in renewable energy generation their productivity and capitalise on the area’s and carbon sequestration. The area can act as significant natural energy resources, and there a strategic carbon and ecological ‘mitigation is potential to increase offshore wind energy bank’ that can make a major contribution to capacity. A carefully planned approach can our national climate change commitments. A reduce environmental and other impacts programme of investment in forestry, woodland and retain more benefits locally. Community creation, native woodlands and peatland ownership of renewable energy projects at restoration will play a key role in reducing all scales could play a key role in improving our national emissions, providing investment resilience, empowering local people to take opportunities, supporting ecosystems and control of their own assets and helping tackle biodiversity and benefiting current and future fuel poverty. Pumped hydro storage at generations. There are also opportunities to Cruachan and other sites such as Coire Glas explore the decarbonisation of the forestry can support the energy network, as well as sector, processing and the transport of timber, providing tourism and recreation opportunities, and to build community wealth through new and we expect to see a growth in solar power. businesses, such as a nationally important tree As technologies continue to develop, storage nursery in Moray. and other forms of generation will grow. The electricity distribution and transmission network Wider but closely related priorities include will require upgrading to support the large continuing conservation at a landscape-scale, increase in onshore and offshore electricity to develop resilient nature networks, deer and generation required to achieve net zero, as well moorland management, visitor management as to meet new demand from heat and transport. and recreation, rural housing, community There will also be a need for more community- empowerment and economic development. scale energy generation to serve the needs of This will provide good quality local employment, local communities directly and build resilience. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 126 The transport system as a whole will need Inverness and Oban airports are hubs for air to be planned to support a shift to more connections to dispersed communities and Wick sustainable transport whilst maintaining access John O’Groats Airport and Broadford Airstrip to markets and facilities. In line with the transport on Skye are key connections. Oban Airport is sustainable investment hierarchy, development also an opportunity for investment in compliance should first be focused in locations which make operations and future drone technology. The the best use of existing infrastructure and Highlands and Islands are aiming to become the services before building new infrastructure or world’s first net zero aviation region by 2040 by providing new services. pioneering new approaches including electric aircraft. Investment in technology and facilities Improvements to the Highland Main Line through will be required to achieve this. The proposed electrification and delivery of new stations Moray Aerospace Advanced Technology and including at Inverness Airport, will help to create Innovation Campus (MAATIC) at Lossiemouth a sustainable commuter network for Inverness intends to create a skilled workforce for the and open up more rural areas to lower carbon Moray region through focusing on aviation sector development. Our rolling programme of efficient and supply chain. electrification is also a key enabler for growth in rail freight, creating improved connectivity and providing additional capacity with faster journey To deliver liveable places, Regional Spatial times, better use of track capacity and lower Strategies and Local Development Plans unit costs. A continued modal shift to rail for in this area should maintain and help to both passengers and freight will bring significant grow the population by taking a positive environmental benefits over time. approach to rural development that strengthens networks of communities. Roads will continue to be arteries upon which local communities and businesses depend. We will do all we can to help reverse There will be a need to adapt key routes due depopulation across rural Scotland. Here, as to the impacts of climate change alongside with other more rural areas of Scotland, 20 creating a strong network of charging points, minute neighbourhoods can be tailored to work including improvements to the A96 to improve with both larger towns and more dispersed safety and to the A9 to maintain a resilient road settlement patterns. link from Thurso and Inverness to the central belt. Remote and rural areas including islands Inverness plays a vital role as a regional centre are dependent on reliable accessibility by for services, health, justice, employment, road including connecting to ferries and ports, education, sport, culture and tourism and has facilitating reliable public transport by road, seen significant expansion in recent years. Key access to essential services and transporting sites for its growth are located primarily to the of goods. There is an urgent need for east along the Moray coast. A sustainable and improvements to the A83 to ensure the resilience adaptive growth strategy will continue to be of the economy and communities of wider Argyll, supported by planned investment in education as well as resilience challenges for other key and health and social care services, as well routes such as the A82. as employment uses. The new railway station serving Inverness Airport will help to connect Continued investment in the national long local communities with growing employment distance walking and cycling network provides opportunities in the wider area. Inverness an opportunity to assist in decarbonising tourism Castle, as part of the Inverness and Highland and recreation across the area, whilst also City Region Deal, will be redeveloped and providing, and acting as a spine for, sustainable opened up to the public, attracting national and active travel connections for everyday travel in international tourists and encouraging visits to the vicinity of towns and villages. the wider Highlands and Islands. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 127 Fort William, Dingwall, Grantown-on-Spey and greater energy efficiency and affordable, low Aviemore are key settlements, and the area has carbon, distributed heat and electricity networks, strong relationships with adjacent, more coastal with a model for increased local generation, settlements such as Mallaig, Oban, Wick and having potential to bring benefits. Maintaining Thurso. Moray also has a strong network of connectivity will be essential, particularly through towns including Forres, Elgin and Nairn. In more public transport that includes rail access and remote communities there is a need to reverse other active travel networks. population decline. A place-based approach (as demonstrated by Fort William 2040), including We will continue to support further investment work to improve town centres and reuse in digital connectivity but will need to go further redundant buildings, will support recovery in to adapt to climate change and make use of a way which responds to the strong character emerging technologies. Priorities include satellite and identity of each of the area’s towns and and mobile solutions to address ‘not spots’, villages. Such an approach is evident in Growth and to support local living by reducing the Deal projects such as Moray’s Cultural Quarter need to travel unsustainably. To complement proposal. existing physical connections, smart solutions, local hubs, demand responsive transport, and A positive approach to rural development active travel networks will help people to access could support the development of a network of services and employment and make low carbon hubs, and future service provision will require local living a more viable option. imaginative solutions so that places can be resilient and self-supporting. Investment in To deliver productive places, Regional strategic health, justice and education facilities Spatial Strategies and Local Development is already planned. In the longer term, digital Plans in this area should support local solutions, including mobile and remote health economic development by making services and virtual education, as well as sustainable use of the area’s world-class continued investment in improved connectivity, environmental assets to innovate and lead will play an increasingly important role. greener growth. As with other parts of Scotland, more homes will be needed to retain people and attract new Natural assets and environmental quality residents of all ages. Many communities have underpin the area’s main economic sectors taken ownership of their land and this could and must therefore be protected, restored and form the foundations for future development used sustainably. Planning will help to attract by unlocking further development sites. investment, grow and diversify businesses and Refurbishment of existing rural buildings and enable local entrepreneurship, micro enterprises, halting the loss of crofts could help to sustain self-employment and social enterprises to the area, and new homes should align with flourish. Remote working can be capitalised on infrastructure and service provision. They should to build economically active local communities. also be located and designed to minimise This will require the continued roll out of high emissions and to complement the distinctive quality digital infrastructure and maintenance character of existing settlements and wider and decarbonisation of transport routes to landscapes. As climate change continues to wider markets. Food miles can be reduced have an impact, water supplies and drainage over time with the help of local community-led will need to be secured and maintained. Flood food growing networks, by supporting locally risk management and changing ecosystems will driven public procurement and, from a land use need to be factored into future plans to ensure perspective, protecting higher quality agricultural nature-based adaptation solutions complement land. local living. Addressing fuel poverty will require Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 128 Ideas are emerging for the area to secure a North East low carbon future for tourism. Assets such as This area focuses on Aberdeen City and the North Coast 500 and, more recently, the Aberdeenshire with cross-boundary links to Moray, Kintyre 66 in the adjacent coastal area, as well and south towards Angus and the Tay estuary. as the area’s high quality environment and associated food and drink products, attract Priorities visitors. However, they also require investment in improvements to infrastructure to support local To deliver sustainable places, Regional communities and visitors. This will maintain the Spatial Strategies and Local Development quality of the experience and the environment, Plans in this area should plan facilitate lower carbon transport, promote ‘leave infrastructure and investment to support no footprint’ and encourage longer stays. the transition from oil and gas to net zero, This could involve extending the availability whilst protecting and enhancing blue and of transport services. There are also many green infrastructure and decarbonising regionally significant opportunities to create connectivity. jobs by growing support services for outdoor activities such as mountain biking, climbing, Action is required to tackle industrial emissions walking and angling and in support of the and transition towards a greener future that country’s winter sport and recreation sector that benefits existing communities and attracts further is primarily focussed in this area. investment. Investment in research and development, Greener energy choices, including hydrogen business opportunities and local centres of and on and offshore renewables, have a natural expertise will help to retain benefits locally and home here and will be at the heart of the broaden the range of skilled jobs. There will area’s future wellbeing economy. Investment also be opportunities to build on and repurpose opportunities focus on the green and blue existing assets to create greener jobs, such as economy and energy innovation. Significant the former nuclear installation at Dounreay and infrastructure will be required to deliver a development at Fort William associated with the hydrogen network for Scotland, including Lochaber Smelter. repurposing of existing facilities and the creation of new capacity. £62 million in the Energy The area’s coastline contributes to the beauty Transition Fund is supporting four projects to and experience of the area and is also a hub for protect existing jobs and create new jobs in the economic activity including fishing, the cruise North East, and across Scotland, by opening and marine leisure sectors, and the offshore up opportunities through energy transition and renewable energy sector. Key ports include the harnessing private sector funding. This funding Cromarty Firth (including Port of Cromarty, Nigg aligns with the Aberdeen City Region Deal and Highland Deephaven), Corpach, Ardersier, and continuing support for retraining and skills Gills Bay, Inverness, Kishorn and Buckie. development. Ports and harbours throughout Through Opportunity Cromarty Firth and other the area are key assets in the blue economy. projects, new facilities and infrastructure will As offshore renewables are an important part of help ports to adapt, unlocking their potential to Scotland’s energy transition, there will be a need support the transition from fossil fuels through oil to align terrestrial and marine development so as and gas decommissioning, renewable energy to maximise the potential of this sector. (including the significant opportunities for marine energy arising from Scotwind) and low carbon The area’s growth strategy includes a hydrogen production and storage, and the commitment to building with nature by creating expansion of supply chain and services. This multi-functional blue and green networks will in turn benefit communities by providing and improving green spaces in and around employment and income for local businesses. settlements, connecting with the national long distance cycling and walking network Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 129 and facilitating active travel. Community-led There will be benefits for people of all ages climate action will help to provide locally-driven arising from an increase in local living and a solutions. A new water supply and waste-water shift towards 20 minute neighbourhoods and systems will play an important role in building the creation of connected, walkable, liveable long-term resilience. and thriving places, in both urban and rural contexts. The aim is to encourage sustainable Aberdeen is a key transport hub providing vital travel options, provide communities with connections internationally, as well as lifeline local access to the wider range of facilities, services to Orkney and Shetland. Congestion services and amenities to support healthier and will be reduced as a result of the construction flourishing communities. In rural places, social of the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route, and and community infrastructure can be designed the A92/A96 Haudagain Improvement project. In with different settlements working in clusters as the city, work is ongoing to lock in the benefits a ‘network of places’, providing services and and prioritise sustainable transport, including amenities that best meet the needs of local rural Aberdeen Rapid Transit. More widely the communities. Aberdeen to Central Belt Rail Improvements will bring benefits to both passengers and freight. The area’s towns contribute to its sense of place The area can lead the way in promoting low and further town centre regeneration will help emissions vehicles, active travel and public communities to adapt to current challenges and transport connectivity as part of its contribution future change. Service provision also needs to net zero. Links south to the Central Belt to reflect the area’s character. Several new and west towards Inverness remain vital. or extended primary and secondary schools Work is progressing on the £200m investment and community facilities are planned and the being made to improve journey times and area will support wider rural communities by capacity between Aberdeen and the Central hosting a new centre of excellence for rural Belt for passengers and freight. Continuing and remote medicine and social care. Access improvements to digital connectivity and to good quality open space and opportunities active travel will reduce the need to travel by for local food growing, including allotments and unsustainable modes and facilitate further community orchards, can benefit health and remote, home or hub based working. wellbeing and tackle inequalities as an integral part of placemaking. To deliver liveable places, Regional Spatial The area benefits from a productive coastline Strategies and Local Development Plans that will be a focus for future economic activity in this area should focus on continued and investment associated with offshore regeneration and encourage more 20 minute renewable energy and the blue economy. neighbourhoods to sustain the skilled The coast is home to communities who will workforce and improve local liveability. benefit from continued regeneration and a move towards 20 minute neighbourhoods A new focus on local living could help to that reduces the need to travel. Key regional address the high levels of car ownership and priorities include the regeneration of Banff, respond to the area’s dispersed settlement Macduff, Fraserburgh and Peterhead. Future pattern. Growth corridors extending from coastal vulnerability to erosion, sea level rise Aberdeen to Peterhead, Huntly and Laurencekirk and flood risk will need to be factored into will be a focus for future development, and development strategies. The fishing industry strategic sites include new communities at will continue to contribute to the area’s Chapelton, Grandhome and Countesswells. strong sense of place and shared heritage, There is significant potential to promote more communities and economy, with some ports compact growth by making better use of and harbours also having opportunities in the brownfield sites and increasing density. cruise and marine leisure sectors. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 130 Central To deliver productive places, Regional This area broadly covers central Scotland from Spatial Strategies and Local Development the Glasgow city region and the Ayrshires in Plans in this area should support the west to Edinburgh city region in the east, continued economic diversification and including the Tay cities, the Forth Valley and innovation. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. The relocation of some activity at Aberdeen Priorities Harbour to the south harbour has been an important element in planning for the future. To deliver sustainable places, Regional Further investment will help to realise its full Spatial Strategies and Local Development potential as a low carbon hub and gateway, Plans in this area should support net zero and there may be opportunities for development energy solutions including extended heat at the South Harbour to support the carbon networks and improved energy efficiency, capture and storage and hydrogen innovation together with urban greening and work at St Fergus and Peterhead in Northern improved low carbon transport. Aberdeenshire. This is also a significant opportunity to improve urban liveability by Blue and green infrastructure unlocking waterfront sites for mixed use The greening of the built environment, including development close to the city centre. Local former industrial areas, is a long held ambition people will need to be involved in deciding how that we now need to expedite to significantly potentially significant industrial and business reduce emissions, adapt to the future impacts activity can be accommodated, alongside of climate change and tackle biodiversity loss. regenerating a vibrant, redesigned city centre in Investment in green infrastructure will support the coming years. urban sustainability, help to restore biodiversity, It is essential that environmental impacts contribute to our overall targets for reducing arising from relocation of the harbour and emissions and improve health and wellbeing. any onward reorganisation of the land uses There is much that we have already learned from around it are carefully managed in a way that past work, for example initiatives to naturalise recognises the location’s natural assets and former mining features, reclaiming canals sensitivities. We expect the LDPs and consenting as a cultural heritage and natural asset, and processes to be informed by the required extensive woodland creation. Wider woodland impact assessments, to play a crucial role in expansion across more urban areas could guiding future development and addressing make a significant contribution to improving environmental sensitivities. air quality and quality of life by reducing pollution, managing water and cooling urban environments. Blue and green networks can help to deliver compact and liveable cities. Many initiatives will come together to achieve urban greening: • The Central Scotland Green Network will continue to bring together environmental enhancement projects. Initiatives such as the John Muir Pollinator Way demonstrate how nature networks can help restore and better connect biodiversity and enhance green infrastructure at a landscape scale. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 131 • The Glasgow City Region Green Network, routes. This approach can also be more cost- a long-term transformational programme of effective than hard engineering solutions and environmental action, can achieve a step create lasting jobs. For example, the Glasgow change in the quality and benefits of green city region recognises the challenges for places across west central Scotland and bring future adaptation and is identifying sustainable enhanced biodiversity closer to communities. solutions to sea level rise, urban overheating, As part of this, the Clyde Climate Forest is and water management. proposing natural solutions at scale across the Glasgow city region. Engineered solutions to adapt our water and drainage infrastructure will be required • The Inner Forth Futures Partnership is tackling in some circumstances, but should support the effects of climate change and providing more natural benefits as far as possible. recreation benefits through projects such as There is scope to continue, and extend, peatland restoration and woodland expansion, the lessons from the Metropolitan Glasgow and supporting the creation of habitat Strategic Drainage Partnership to future proof networks. infrastructure in support of the long-term growth • The River Leven Project in Fife is a holistic and development of Edinburgh. The Lothian place-based approach to development. Drainage Partnership is taking this forward with Blue and green infrastructure will support projects emerging within Edinburgh and at the investment and provide environmental, health ClimatEvolution Zone in East Lothian. and wellbeing benefits for communities. • The Tayside strategic green and active At a local scale there is significant potential travel network also aims to create regionally to expand raingardens and sustainable urban significant assets that contribute to the quality drainage systems to help manage surface water of the area. as part of blue and green infrastructure for our future cities and towns. • Perthshire Nature Connections Partnership (PNCP) encompasses a long-term, nature- Whilst predominantly urban, this part of Scotland based vision for Perth and Kinross that aims benefits from a rich and diverse rural area to create a distinct connection between the and there are many areas where town meets Cairngorms and Loch Lomond and The countryside. These green areas and natural Trossachs National Parks. spaces are key assets, sustaining communities • There is a particular opportunity to build on that could become better places to live if we the successful regeneration of our canals to can achieve this in a way that is compatible provide an invaluable strategic greenspace with our wider aims for climate change, nature that connects communities across the restoration and 20 minute neighbourhoods. The area as a whole, contributes to its strong pandemic has demonstrated that many people post-industrial heritage and provides wider are looking for more space at home and in their functions such as water management to communities. It will be important to plan positively support future resilience to climate change. and imaginatively to make sustainable use of the The potential of a canal asset should be countryside around our cities and towns. recognised as a shared priority. These areas have important functions – There is a continuing need to invest in renewing productive agricultural land, providing vital and improving the capacity of flooding, water ecosystem services and spaces for local and drainage infrastructure to build the resilience food growing, outdoor access and recreation. of communities. A catchment-scale approach, They support carbon sequestration, including using nature-based solutions, can also provide through peatland restoration, woodland creation benefits for the health and quality of life of and conserving natural habitats, and there is Scotland’s urban communities, particularly scope for innovation in key sectors including where solutions seek to deliver multiple benefits, sustainable food production. including biodiversity gain and active travel Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 132 Planning has the potential to address the impact opportunity to substantially reduce levels of car- of climate change on communities whilst also based commuting, congestion and emissions generating renewable heat and facilitating from transport at scale. urban cooling from our rivers. Mine water, solar and onshore support for offshore renewables, Connections to the rest of the UK will be including development that makes use of strengthened in the longer term through high existing infrastructure at strategic hubs, all speed rail connectivity, with stations expected provide opportunities for decarbonisation. in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Decarbonisation of freight will require the construction of new hubs Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and associated facilities to support logistics. has landscape-scale opportunities to restore This will also support growing interest in express and enhance nature and respond to climate logistics from rail operators that would see change, including through woodland creation passenger Electrical Multiple Units converted and peatland restoration, as well as natural to carry small freight, targeting the UK parcel flood risk management. The National Park will market. Ports on the Clyde, Forth and Tay coasts continue to support the quality of life and health will also play a key role in this transition. of the urban population and its future priorities Digital connectivity will facilitate remote working, include new infrastructure provision to provide supporting the growth of towns and villages a quality visitor experience and support people outwith the larger cities and potentially leading to connect with nature, as well as a greener to a renaissance in more rural living. It will be tourism sector supported by innovative low crucial to address digital inequality, whether carbon transport solutions. Long distance active through cost, infrastructure or skills development, travel and rail routes have untapped potential as virtual service provision continues to grow. to provide sustainable tourism solutions. The area’s communities can adapt to support more localised living and working opportunities, with To deliver liveable places, Regional Spatial improved digital connectivity and affordable Strategies and Local Development Plans housing. More integrated planning and land in this area should pioneer low carbon, management offers opportunities to support land resilient urban living by rolling out use change and reduction of greenhouse gas networks of 20 minute neighbourhoods, emissions. The approach also links with and future proofing city and town centres, relates to the action area to the north. accelerating urban greening, investing in net zero homes, and managing Urban accessibility development on the edge of settlements. A focus on community wealth building, together with growing opportunities for longer term 20 minute neighbourhoods remote working, could address the high levels The diversity of this area, from metropolitan of transport movement by private car and districts to rural and dispersed settlements, will challenges of congestion and air pollution require concerted effort to develop networks of across the area. Local living, including 20 places that meet the principles of local living and minute neighbourhoods, will help to minimise 20 minute neighbourhoods, and with fair access future commuting and ensure jobs and to a range of services that support sustainable income can be spread more evenly across the living. Planning should focus on revitalising cities area. Accessibility and transport affordability and towns at scale, supporting a finer grained can support more resilience which benefits approach to placemaking, and a more intricate communities who are less connected. mix of land uses and density. This should incorporate networks of natural spaces and blue By putting in place mass/rapid transit systems and green infrastructure, to create health and for Edinburgh through plans to extend the tram wellbeing benefits, increase resilience to climate network, and for Glasgow including the Clyde change and support the growth of green job Metro and multi-modal connectivity, we have an opportunities. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 133 The car-based design of some of our places, need to work with the region to accommodate including many suburban areas and new towns, wider need and demand in a strategic way. mean that a significant shift to a more people Seven strategic sites, supported through the centred approach will be required. Planning Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region can help retrofit facilities and services into areas Deal, could accommodate up to 45,000 homes where they are scarce, such as predominantly and associated economic and employment residential areas, to enable better integrated, benefits including: Blindwells, Calderwood, mixed-use areas. City, town and neighbourhood Dunfermline, Edinburgh Waterfront, Shawfair, centres can be at the heart of this if they are Tweedbank and Winchburgh. The need for planned to strengthen self-sufficiency and proposals to be supported by low carbon bring services and jobs closer to homes. The transport solutions, in line with the Infrastructure recommendations of the recent town centre Investment Plan and National Transport Strategy review can be delivered by supporting a wider investment hierarchies and infrastructure first range of uses and making the most of their approach, will be critical to their success. The assets. Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Deal identifies infrastructure investment as part of this. Accessibility will be a key part of the transition These interventions and commitments, taken with and will involve investment in infrastructure and the additional transport investment made through services in line with the sustainable travel and the Deal, will ensure the city region continues to investment hierarchies, to improve fair access grow and flourish. Regionally significant services, and reduce carbon emissions. Active travel including healthcare and social care facilities networks will need to expand to make walking, and investment in the learning estate, is also wheeling and cycling an attractive, convenient, planned to support future growth and sustain safe, and sustainable choice for everyday the wellbeing of existing, new and expanding travel. There are significant opportunities for communities. investment in heat networks, energy storage and the circular economy to create more sustainable Waterfront regeneration neighbourhoods. The region’s coasts and firths define the area’s history and shape its sense of place. There is Energy efficient, affordable homes potential to unlock the strategic importance of As well as building new homes to net zero coasts, estuary and river corridors for climate standards, more will need to be done to meet mitigation, resilience, and positive environmental the bigger challenge of upgrading the existing change. Coastal change, driven by climate housing stock to reduce emissions and adapt change, will need to be managed to build long- to future climate impacts. Emissions from our term resilience and future-proof our waterfronts, homes need to be very substantially reduced – where this is feasible. Progress has been made by 2030, they must fall by 68% from 2020 levels. to create long distance walking and cycling routes to open up access to waterfront spaces Improved energy efficiency will be needed, by and reclaim them as a resource for people providing zero emissions heating solutions and as well as industry. There will be a need to more sustainable water management practices anticipate and mitigate risk from coastal erosion, for existing settlements and homes. Improving flood risk and storm surges, with a focus on sustainable travel options and reliability will help natural solutions which work with the unique to reduce transport based emissions associated biodiversity and landscape character of these with our homes. important places. There is a particular pressure for housing These coasts are rich in cultural and natural solutions, including provision of affordable heritage. Along the Inner Forth, various homes that meet future needs, in the south projects provide multiple benefits, including east of Scotland. Edinburgh has committed to flood management, cultural landscape building affordable homes at scale, and will enhancement, habitat creation, access and Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 134 tourism. Edinburgh’s waterfront regeneration A combination of incentives, investment is ongoing, with Granton benefiting from an and policy support for productively reusing ambitious masterplan, the tram extension to brownfield land and buildings at risk will be Leith progressing and potential development at required to steer development away from Seafield helping to redefine the city’s relationship greenfield locations, whilst also acknowledging with its coastline. This is reusing existing assets their biodiversity value and potential for urban and helping Edinburgh to become a more greening. Public-sector led development can liveable city. A masterplanned approach to shape future markets and deliver development regenerating the Edinburgh Waterfront can take in places where change is needed the most and into account opportunities for the Port of Leith to can deliver multiple benefits. Redevelopment service the offshore energy sector. More broadly, should include, but not be limited to, housing port facilities should continue to be capable of development. By de-risking sites and taking servicing freight traffic within the Firth of Forth an infrastructure first approach, this land can given the importance of east coast freight links. help to achieve a better distribution of new homes to meet our future needs. This will also The successful regeneration of Dundee reduce pressure in places where growth is Waterfront has demonstrated the potential to no longer sustainable. Key projects include make sustainable use of our urban coasts, and the Eden project on the sites of the former ongoing proposals include the creation of a Dundee gasworks, and the redevelopment of marina at Victoria Dock and further development Ravenscraig, a longstanding post-industrial site of central waterfront sites. Dundee port has an where new development, including improved aspiration to expand its operational area into the transport connectivity, can bring new models of Firth of Tay. The HRA of NPF4 has identified that low carbon living at scale. such development would have a high probability of resulting in adverse effects on the integrity of European site(s). This would therefore need To deliver productive places, Regional to be considered carefully at project level, Spatial Strategies and Local Development including through the HRA process to ascertain Plans in this area should target economic that there will be no adverse effects on European investment and build community wealth sites, or if this is not the case, whether there are to overcome disadvantage and support a imperative reasons of over-riding public interest greener wellbeing economy. and relevant statutory tests are met. This area has a diverse business base and is a Reuse of brownfield land key engine of growth for Scotland as a whole. A more liveable Central Belt means that we will There are many clusters of sites and businesses need to do more to reuse empty buildings and which form the basis of regional propositions for brownfield land, including vacant and derelict investment. In line with our aspirations to build a land, particularly spaces which have not been wellbeing economy, opportunities for investment used for decades and can be accessed by and development should be designed to sustainable modes. This will reduce further maximise economic, social and environmental urban sprawl and improve local environments. wellbeing, rather than focusing on growth alone. Around 40% of Scotland’s vacant and derelict A planned approach can help to target future land is concentrated in the Glasgow city region development in areas of significant economic and its reuse for a range of uses is a key disadvantage so that new and better jobs are priority. Edinburgh has committed to building a more fairly distributed to help address national, significant share of future housing development regional and more localised inequality. on brownfield sites and progress is being made in Dundee to repurpose disused sites, including the creation of a new innovation park on the former Michelin site. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 135 City and town centres As a capital city with a World Heritage Site at its The pandemic has brought obvious challenges core, it will be crucial that future development for our city centres, but has also unlocked takes into account the capacity of the city itself opportunities to take forward new models of and its surrounding communities and makes working that could better support wellbeing the most of its exceptional heritage assets, and improve our places in the longer term. places and cultural wealth. The City Centre The continued growth of remote and local Transformation Plan supports a move away from working and the creation of hubs within groups a car-based city centre to create a more liveable of settlements could significantly reduce the and attractive place to live, work and visit. The need to travel, whilst also helping to grow local Forth Bridge is also an inscribed UNESCO World businesses and communities. Heritage Site, and our rich industrial and cultural heritage remains apparent across the area. This raises significant questions for the future of city centres. Existing offices have the potential Dundee is well on the way towards reinventing to be repurposed to achieve higher density itself through regeneration of the waterfront, mixed use neighbourhoods with a lower carbon unlocking strategic sites for new homes and footprint and require careful planning to ensure new opportunities for innovation and economic future communities are properly supported by development arising, such as the Michelin appropriate services. Scotland Innovation Park and at the port. Continued regeneration in this area, building Glasgow city centre, an exceptional asset and on the city’s rich culture, sense of place and a primary location and cultural destination, has appetite to innovate will also contribute to the been significantly impacted by unprecedented overall aims for this part of Scotland. The V&A changes in working patterns, service provision will continue to be a focal point for this, evolving and the retail sector. Whilst these changes to become a National Centre for Design within may not be sustained in the long-term, now this UNESCO City of Design. is the time to accelerate work to diversify the city centre and invest in maintaining and re- Town centres throughout this area will also using existing buildings so that it can evolve play a critical role in driving a new economic to be a more carbon conscious place. Existing future. The recent town centre review highlights connections mean the centre could sustain opportunities to expand the range of services many more homes to meet a commitment to and facilities they offer, reuse redundant doubling the city centre population, revitalising buildings and provide new homes for a wide places and creating a 24 hour city that is safe range of people. This in turn will ensure their and open to everyone. Significant investment in crucial role in defining our sense of place is schools, community services and greenspace protected and enhanced, future proofing a key will be needed to achieve this and more creative asset for Scotland as a whole. use of the public realm and a low emission zone will help to make this a safer and healthier Strategic sites environment for people of all ages. Innovative Many business and investment sites are solutions, such as retrofitting energy efficiency located along key transport corridors and new measures to social housing across the city, approaches may be required as investment could be extended to help improve the built transitions away from locations that can only be fabric of the city centre’s commercial properties. reached by car towards more accessible areas that are connected by low carbon and active Edinburgh has similar challenges and travel options. opportunities for positive change. High interest in investment and associated demand for new The Clyde Mission will stimulate investment homes means that planning will need to help in sites along the Clyde to build a wellbeing deliver sustainable development that supports economy and achieve a step-change in the the quality of life of existing and future residents. quality of the environment for communities. This Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 136 ambitious project will reuse extensive areas of Galashiels, Cockenzie, Midlothian and the vacant and derelict land in accessible locations M8 corridor. A strategy for West Edinburgh is and requires a sustainable approach to manage emerging which guides a wide range of uses to the future impact of climate change. Key sites create a sustainable extension to the city, with extend from Greenock Ocean Terminal to added benefit from associated improvements Queens Quay, Tradeston, the Broomielaw and to the quality of place of existing communities. Glasgow City Centre, to Clyde Gateway – a Proposals focus on locating development on and longstanding regeneration project which has around existing transport corridors and work is made exceptional progress in transforming ongoing to improve accessibility including the communities and overcoming inequality. A Edinburgh tram extension. Further investment national collaboration to support delivery of the should take into account the impact of new project has significant potential to accelerate development on potentially compounding change, attract investment and achieve wider existing capacity constraints and congestion, benefits for communities. The wider Clyde and prioritise sustainable choices. Coast, an iconic area rich in cultural heritage and natural assets, can be reimagined through As the highest single source of industrial collective efforts on regeneration in nearby emissions in Scotland, and a key part of our coastal communities, such as Dunoon and future resilience and manufacturing base, Rothesay. The area’s accessibility by train and continued investment at Grangemouth, and water means that it is an ideal location for low the strategic sites it includes, will be required. carbon tourism and leisure. Plans are emerging for innovative industry in the Falkirk/Grangemouth Investment Zone, building Aligning with the Clyde Mission, the Ayrshire on the area’s strengths in chemicals and making Councils are working together through their the most of strategic assets including the port Ayrshire Growth Deal and Community Wealth and rail connection. There is great potential, not Building programme to build economic resilience only to reduce emissions at the Grangemouth and address unemployment, poverty and complex, but also to grow the cluster into a inequality across their area, with town centres hub of low carbon manufacturing that can at the heart of communities. This includes help unlock wider decarbonisation across the proposals for advanced manufacturing and country, with its strategic location, infrastructure, aerospace engineering which will make use assets and skills base. Opportunities include of the existing infrastructure and investment renewable energy innovation, bioenergy opportunities available at Glasgow and hydrogen production with carbon capture and Prestwick airports. Glasgow is already a centre storage, and repurposing of existing strategic of expertise for manufacturing satellites and will and critical infrastructure such as pipelines. The benefit from the associated development of a skills, knowledge and experience that is currently network of spaceports across the country, whilst situated there for the petro-chemicals sector is a supporting wider industry and employment. prime resource for the transition to net zero. This The Ardeer peninsula is also a significant can form a focal point in a wider masterplan for site for redevelopment of the wider Ayrshire Forth Valley that brings together opportunities area. Hunterston is a strategic asset with for energy with the circular economy to deepwater access, where there are plans for support wider investment in green economic new economic development and employment opportunities. uses. Development of the site will need to take account of future vulnerability to climate change. Coastal sites formerly used for baseload A planned marine centre at Ardrossan will power generation – specifically Longannet and provide further opportunities. Cockenzie – benefit from existing assets and infrastructure that can be repurposed to form the The Edinburgh City Region supports investment basis of new proposals. At Cockenzie, work is in significant clusters including the Bioquarter, ongoing to develop an opportunity for a Climate Mid Fife, Dunfermline, Guardbridge St. Andrews, Evolution Zone to generate employment and Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 137 provide essential infrastructure for net zero, area’s sense of place. Tourism is a key theme in linked with the potential to expand the new the emerging regional economic strategy for the sustainable settlement at Blindwells, within the Forth Valley and both the Falkirk Growth Deal and Greater Blindwells Development Area. There Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal. is scope to build on the strategic location and rail connectivity of Longannet to benefit local Ports communities around this part of the Forth. There Key ports in this area can play a central role in are further opportunities for a range of economic supporting the expansion of renewable energy, activities and investment in ports associated with in particular offshore wind energy. It will also a green economy at Montrose, Dundee, Rosyth, be important to make use of the infrastructure Burntisland, and Methil. to reduce road haulage and secure a more sustainable freight sector which directly links to The Levenmouth rail link will reconnect Leven international markets. There are opportunities for to the mainline rail network with new stations at enhanced cruise facilities for the Forth, as well Leven and Cameron Bridge by 2024 subject as the Clyde where Greenock Ocean Terminal, to consenting processes. This will enhance the supported by the Glasgow City Region Deal, can communities it serves and contribute positively build on its role as a key gateway. There may be to the lives of people who live there by unlocking opportunities to make use of harbour facilities to access to social, cultural, employment and support the marine leisure industry. educational opportunity. Development of ports on the Firth of Forth will The Tay Cities Region has a strong regional also need to take account of the potential for a proposal for developing clusters of investment in substantial increase in freight and passenger research and innovation supporting a range of traffic between Scotland and continental Europe, sectors in both urban and rural areas including linked to the Scottish Government’s objective life sciences, energy, digital, and food production. that Scotland should accede to the EU as Perth is managing housing development in an independent Member State at the earliest strategic development areas and transport possible opportunity. infrastructure investment and the creation of a bus and rail interchange to support modal shift and establish a new gateway to the city. Work is underway to deliver local heat and energy networks, Perth West Regional Innovation Park and to make Perth the ‘Biodiversity Capital of Scotland’. Angus Council is progressing its Mercury Programme to support clean growth, low carbon transport and housing and agri tech which will contribute to future food security and reduce emissions. Key sites include Montrose Port, and the Angus Rural Mobility Hub in Brechin. Stirling is bringing forward new opportunities for innovation and investment, building on the city’s strong heritage and supported by the area’s educational institutions. Within Forth Valley, a National Tartan Centre, the Canal corridor, the Frontiers of the Roman Empire: Antonine Wall World Heritage Site, Ochil Hills and Whisky Trail create a unique heritage offering which will support local employment and strengthen the Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 138 South The area’s low carbon future will depend on This area broadly includes Dumfries and Galloway supporting modal shift and reducing car use, and the Scottish Borders, South and East given current dependence on the car and need Ayrshires, South Lanarkshire in the west, with to improve access to services, education and links to the Lothians towards the east. employment. Low emissions vehicles will only go some of the way towards addressing future Priorities challenges. Enhancing public transport and improving connectivity between communities in To deliver sustainable places, Regional the east and west will help to support thriving Spatial Strategies and Local Development and distinct communities. Plans in this area should protect environmental assets and stimulate Public transport, including the bus network, investment in natural and engineered will play an important role in decarbonisation solutions to climate change and nature and developing innovative solutions and restoration, whilst decarbonising transport linkages to the rail system. Active travel should and building resilient physical and digital be supported with wheeling, walking and connections. cycling within and between towns and other communities linked to strategic routes for This area’s forests and woodland are a residents and visitors. This is important not only nationally significant asset and its extensive for local sustainability but also as a strategic peatland will need to support carbon storage attraction to take advantage of major outdoor and sequestration. The Borderlands Natural recreation opportunities. Capital Programme will develop trials and sector There is also a need to secure better digital strategies to restore biodiversity, build resilience links to unlock the potential of rural living and and make the most of the area’s natural assets home or hub working. The Borderlands Digital to support climate change mitigation and Infrastructure Programme will play a key role in adaptation. This will build on the successes of a supporting connectivity and responding to future range of nature restoration projects in the area, technology and innovation. such as the Carrifran Wildwoods project. The UNESCO Galloway and Southern Ayrshire To deliver liveable places, Regional Spatial Biosphere is a crucial environmental asset which Strategies and Local Development Plans can contribute to the area’s future sustainability, in this area should increase the population liveability and productivity. The South of Scotland by improving local liveability, creating Regional Land Use Pilot is providing significant a low carbon network of towns and opportunity to work with landowners, landed supporting sustainable rural development. interests and others to look at the multi-benefits from land use and to maximise natural capital Quality of life for people living in the area will opportunities. depend on the network of settlements in the The South of Scotland is an important centre future and existing communities should form the for renewable energy generation. Proposals basis of a tailored response to the local living for consolidating and extending existing wind concept. Town centres can be strengthened as farms and associated grid improvements they recover from the pandemic. New measures and supply chain opportunities will require a to build resilience to climate change will be carefully planned approach. The Solway Firth required including flood risk management in key has significant potential for renewable energy settlements. generation in the future, but development will Housing provision will play a key role in require careful planning given the sensitivity of supporting the area’s aspirations for economic the environment and its international importance development as well as in maintaining for nature conservation. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 139 and growing a working age population. community wealth building will help to reduce Decarbonisation of existing homes will be dependence on public sector employment and required, as well as a strategic approach to a relatively low wage economy associated with rolling out electric vehicle charging. Communities rural and primary sectors. themselves will have a critical role to play in shaping their future development. The current approach to investment focuses on strategic growth corridors linking economic The area is already investing in regenerating hubs with transport routes. Whilst the strategic and future proofing its towns and wider road network is an asset and contributes to the communities. The Stranraer Gateway Project area’s connections north and south, a long- is an opportunity to consolidate and bring new term strategy will require innovation and fresh impetus to regenerate this strategically located thinking to ensure that future growth reflects settlement. Plans include expansion of the our commitment to reducing greenhouse gas marina, supported by the Borderlands Inclusive emissions and reducing inequality. Growth Deal, and low carbon heating can be incorporated as part of the transformation of The future growth of the east of the area aims the wider town. Nearby Cairnryan is a crucial to consolidate existing settlements, capitalise gateway to Scotland, with a need to make best on the strong sense of place of its towns use of existing connections. and ensure accessibility by locating new development close to the Borders Rail Line. The Regeneration innovation extends across the Borderlands Place Programme, Borderlands area. The HALO Kilmarnock project focuses Natural Capital Project, future Regional Land Use on the reuse of vacant industrial land to create Partnerships and other strategic initiatives can a low carbon community urban village, acting support an integrated approach to protecting as an exemplar for innovative transformation and restoring the area’s natural assets, of future places. The Ayrshire Manufacturing enhancing the built environment and achieving Investment Corridor project supports the a greener, fairer and more inclusive wellbeing economic generation of Kilmarnock and the economy across the area. wider region, whilst the CoRE (Community Renewable Energy) project in Cumnock seeks Employment opportunities can support to explore, develop and provide solutions population growth, help to retain more young to energy supply and storage challenges in people and transition the area away from its urban and non-urban areas, and to help in the current dependence on low wage sectors. New development of a new, more flexible energy grid ways of working, including remote working could to complement existing power systems. attract more people to live here, supporting the economy and sustaining local services and facilities. This will also benefit from continued To deliver productive places, Regional support for local skills development and centres Spatial Strategies and Local Development of further and higher education including the Plans in this area should support local Galashiels campus of Heriot Watt University and economic development whilst making Glasgow University at the Crichton Campus, sustainable use of the area’s world-class Dumfries. environmental assets to innovate and lead greener growth. Significant investment sites include the former nuclear power station at Chapelcross which The future sustainability of the area will depend benefits from existing grid connections and on the creation of high quality and green jobs is an opportunity to repurpose the land by for local people. The local economy will need to establishing a green energy park that contributes diversify from its focus on land based industries to national ambitions and innovation. Low carbon (agriculture and forestry), to sustain a wider accessibility will be a key challenge, as the site range of businesses and jobs. An emphasis on is remote from Annan and not served by public Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 140 transport. Providing access to wider markets, the port at Cairnryan could create further strategic growth opportunities. The expansion of Tweedbank and an inclusive approach to economic development in the Central Borders and Tweeddale are also strategic opportunities. The area has aspirations to become a prime outdoor recreation and green tourism destination. Key projects include the South West Coastal Path, and projects supported by the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal; the Mountain Biking Innovation Centre at Innerleithen, updating the cycling experience and facilities at some of the 7stanes sites, and Destination Tweed which will deliver a multi-user path and cycle route from Moffat to Berwick upon Tweed. More could be made of the area’s border location and attractions to ensure visitors make better use of local services and support the economy and communities. The west of the area has a close relationship, and strategic connection to, Northern Ireland and Ireland via Cairnryan, as well as across the English border to Carlisle and onwards to European markets. The connection to Northern Ireland and Ireland is already a focus for freight movements as a result of EU Exit. In the east, the Scottish Borders has a role to play as part of the Edinburgh City Region, with the Borders Railway opening up new sites for sustainable development towards the north, and the south sustaining rural industries. Work is ongoing to assess the feasibility of extending the Borders Railway from Tweedbank to Carlisle. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 141 Annex D – Six Qualities of Successful Places 1. Healthy: Supporting the prioritisation of women’s safety and improving physical and mental health Designing for: • lifelong wellbeing through ensuring spaces, routes and buildings feel safe and welcoming e.g. through passive surveillance and use of physical safety measures. • healthy and active lifestyles, through the creation of walkable neighbourhoods, food growing opportunities and access to nature and greenspace • accessibility and inclusion for everyone regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, ability and culture • social connectivity and creating a sense of belonging and identity within the community • environmentally positive places with improved air quality, reactivating derelict and brownfield land, removing known hazards and good use of green and blue infrastructure

2 — Pleasant: Supporting attractive natural and built spaces

2. Pleasant: Supporting attractive natural and built spaces Designing for: • positive social interactions including quality of public realm, civic spaces, streets and ensuring a lively and inclusive experience • protection from the elements to create attractive and welcoming surroundings, including provision for shade and shelter, mitigating against noise, air, light pollution and undesirable features, as well as ensuring climate resilience, including flood prevention and mitigation against rising sea levels • connecting with nature including natural landscape, existing landforms and features, biodiversity and eco-systems, integrating blue and green infrastructure and visual connection • variety and quality of play and recreation spaces for people of all ages and abilities • enjoyment, enabling people to feel at ease, spend more time outdoors and take inspiration from their surroundings 3. Connected: Supporting well connected networks that make moving around easy and reduce car dependency Designing for: • active travel by encouraging more walking, wheeling and cycling together with reliable, accessible, public transport and shared transport hubs that allow for simple modal shifts • connectivity including strategic cycle routes, local cycle routes, footpaths, pavements, active travel networks, desire lines, destinations, permeability, accessibility and catering for different needs and abilities • convenient connections including local and regional interconnection, infrastructure, sustainable travel, interchange between public transport and active travel and supporting easy modal shifts in transport • pedestrian experience including safe crossing, pedestrian priority, reduced vehicular speed and noise, inclusive design and surfaces, assistive technology, reduced street clutter, catering for suitable vehicular parking and management of loading/unloading and deliveries and refuse collections Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 142 4. Distinctive: Supporting attention to detail of local architectural styles and natural landscapes to be interpreted into designs to reinforce identity Designing for: • scale including density, building heights, massing, orientation, building lines and legibility • built form including mix of typologies, types, uses, sizes and tenures • sense of place including design influences, architectural styles, choice of materials and finishes, detailing, landscape design, active frontages and cultural context 5. Sustainable: Supporting the efficient use of resources that will allow people to live, play, work and stay in their area, ensuring climate resilience and integrating nature positive biodiversity solutions Designing for: • transition to net-zero including energy/carbon efficient solutions, retrofitting, reuse and repurposing and sharing of existing infrastructure and resources • climate resilience and nature recovery including incorporating blue and green infrastructure, integrating nature positive biodiversity solutions • active local economy including opportunities for local jobs and training, work spaces, enabling working from home, supporting community enterprise and third sector • community and local living including access to local services and facilities, education, community growing and healthy food options, play and recreation and digital connectivity 6. Adaptable: Supporting commitment to investing in the long-term value of buildings, streets and spaces by allowing for flexibility so that they can meet the changing needs and accommodate different uses over time Designing for: • quality and function, ensuring fitness for purpose, design for high quality and durability • longevity and resilience including recognising the role of user centred design to cater for changing needs over time and to respond to social, economic and environmental priorities • long-term maintenance including effective engagement, clarity of rights and responsibilities, community ownership/stewardship, continuous upkeep and improvements Place Standard Tool and the delivery of successful places The Place Standard contains 14 themes that support the Six Qualities of Successful Places, providing a consistent framework to consider and to assess the quality of new and existing places. The Place Standard tool Design Version is specifically created to support the consideration of development planning and design within the framework of the 14 Place Standard themes and to deliver on the Six Qualities of Successful Places. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 143 Annex E – Minimum All-Tenure Housing Land Requirement This Annex sets out the Minimum All-Tenure Housing Land Requirement (MATHLR) for each planning authority in Scotland. This is to meet the requirement of Section 3A(3)(d) of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997, as amended. The MATHLR is the minimum amount of land, by reference to the number of housing units, that is to be provided by each planning authority in Scotland for a 10 year period. The MATHLR is expected to be exceeded in each Local Development Plan’s Local Housing Land Requirement. Local and National Park Authority MATHLR Aberdeen City 7,000 Aberdeenshire 7,550 Angus 2,550 Argyll & Bute 2,150 Cairngorms National Park 850 City of Edinburgh 36,750 Clackmannanshire 1,500 Dumfries & Galloway 4,550 Dundee City 4,300 East Ayrshire 4,050 East Dunbartonshire 2,500 East Lothian 6,500 East Renfrewshire 2,800 Eilean Siar 192 Falkirk 5,250 Fife (Central and South) 5,550 Fife (North) 1,750 All Fife* 7,300 Glasgow City 21,350 Highland 9,500 Inverclyde 1,500 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park 300 Midlothian 8,850 Moray 3,450 North Ayrshire 2,950 North Lanarkshire 7,350 Orkney 1,600 Perth & Kinross 8,500 Renfrewshire 4,900 Scottish Borders 4,800 Shetland 850 South Ayrshire 2,000 South Lanarkshire 7,850 Stirling 3,500 West Dunbartonshire 2,100 West Lothian 9,850 * The total consists of Fife North and Fife Central and South. This reflects that Fife was formerly part of two Strategic Development Plan areas and contributed to separate Housing Need and Demand Assessments. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 144 Annex F – Glossary of definitions 20 minute A flexible approach to assessing our places against the concept of local neighbourhood living. A method of achieving connected and often compact neighbourhoods designed in such a way that people can meet the majority of their daily needs within a reasonable distance of their home preferably by sustainable and active travel methods. The principle can be adjusted to include varying geographical scales from cities and urban environments, to rural and island communities. Housing would be planned together with local infrastructure including schools, community centres, local shops and health and social care to significantly reduce the need to use unsustainable methods of travel, to prioritise quality of life, help tackle inequalities, increase levels of health and wellbeing and respond to the climate emergency. 4G 4G is the fourth generation of mobile phone technology, following 2G and 3G. 2G technology was suitable for making calls and sending text messages, while 3G makes it possible to access the internet more effectively through devices such as a mobile, tablet or laptop. It’s ideal for services that demand more capacity, like video streaming, mapping and social networking sites. 5G 5G is much faster than previous generations of wireless technology. 5G also offers greater capacity, allowing thousands of devices in a small area to be connected at the same time. The reduction in latency (the time between instructing a wireless device to perform an action and that action being completed) means 5G is also more responsive. Together these features make 5G highly relevant for industrial applications. The connectivity and capacity offered by 5G is opening up the potential for new, innovative services while mobile spectrum can be used in more effective ways. Affordable Good quality homes that are affordable to people on low incomes. This can home/affordable include social rented, mid-market rented, shared-ownership, shared-equity, housing housing sold at discount (including plots for self-build), self-build plots and low cost housing without subsidy. Agent of change Where an application is made for development which is likely to be principle affected by noise from existing development such as, but not limited to, music venues, manufacturing or industrial sites, large retail outlets, etc., the applicant is required to demonstrate both that they have assessed the potential impact on occupants of the proposed development and that the proposed design incorporates appropriate measures to mitigate this impact. Ancient woodland Land that has maintained continuous woodland habitat since at least 1750. Appropriate Regulation 48 of The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994, assessment as amended, requires an authority, before deciding to undertake, or give any consent, permission or other authorisation for certain plans or projects likely to have a significant effect on a European site in Great Britain (either alone or in combination with other plans or projects), to make an ‘appropriate assessment’ of the implications for the site in view of that site’s conservation objectives. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 145 Biodiversity The variability in living organisms and the ecological complexes of which they are part. This includes diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems (UN Convention on Biological Diversity, 1992). Blue economy The Blue Economy is sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods and jobs, while preserving the health of marine and coastal ecosystem. Blue Water environment features within the natural and built environments that infrastructure provide a range of ecosystem services. Blue features include rivers, lochs, wetlands, canals, other water courses, ponds, coastal and marine areas including beaches, porous paving, sustainable urban drainage systems and raingardens. Brownfield Land which has previously been developed. The term may cover vacant or derelict land, land occupied by redundant or unused buildings and developed land within the settlement boundary where further intensification of use is considered acceptable. Buildings at risk The Buildings at Risk Register (BARR) for Scotland (buildingsatrisk.org.uk) register has been in operation since 1990 and highlights properties of architectural or historic merit that are considered to be at risk. Buildings at risk are not necessarily in poor condition, they may simply be standing empty with no clear future use or be threatened with demolition. Business and Business, general industrial and storage and distribution uses and smaller industry scale business uses such as home-working, live-work units and micro- businesses. Carbon capture Carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) encompasses the methods utilisation and and technologies used to capture the carbon dioxide generated by large- storage scale energy intensive processes, such as power generation and industrial processes, and transport that captured carbon dioxide for safe and permanent storage deep underground in a geological formation. In some applications, the captured carbon dioxide can be recycled and used to manufacture useful products, thus giving it economic value. Carbon-rich soils Organo-mineral and peat soils are known as carbon-rich soils. A peat soil is defined in Scotland as when soil has an organic layer at the surface which is more than 50cm deep. Organo-mineral soil or peaty soil is soil which has an organic layer at the surface less than 50cm thick and overlies mineral layers (e.g. sand, silt and clay particles). There is also a relatively rare group of soils in Scotland known as humose soils. These have organic rich layers with between 15 and 35% organic matter. These are mineral soils but also considered to be carbon rich. Carbon The long-term removal, capture, or sequestration of carbon dioxide from the sequestration atmosphere to slow or reverse atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) pollution and to mitigate or reverse climate change. Carbon sink A carbon sink is a natural or artificial reservoir that accumulates and stores CO2 for an indefinite period. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 146 Circular economy A circular economy is one that is designed to reduce the demand for raw material in products; to encourage reuse, repair and manufacture by designing products and materials to last as long as possible in line with the waste hierarchy. Climate change Climate change adaptation is about responding to the changes that we adaptation have seen in our climate over the last few decades, and preparing for the challenges that we will face as our climate continues to change. Climate change Climate change mitigation refers to efforts to reduce or prevent emissions mitigation of greenhouse gasses, which have a direct impact on global average temperatures, and reducing the current concentration of carbon dioxide by enhancing carbon sinks (for example, increasing the area of forest). Commercial Centres which have a more specific focus on retailing and/or leisure uses, centre such as shopping centres, commercial leisure developments, mixed retail and leisure developments, retail parks and factory outlet centres. Community A body of people. A community can be based on location (for example people who live or work in or use an area) common identity (for example a shared ethnicity, language, age) or common interest (for example the business community, amenity, sports, social or heritage groups). Community Buildings or services used by the community, including community halls, facilities recreation centres and libraries. Community hub A community hub is a multi-purpose centre, such as a community centre, medical centre or school, that provides a range of high quality and cost effective services to the local community. Community A people-centred approach to local economic development, which redirects wealth building wealth back into the local economy, and places control and benefits into the hands of local people. Conservation Conservation areas are areas which have special architectural or historic area interest that are considered worthy of protection. Their selection, assessment and designation is carried out by the planning authority. To be designated as a conservation area it must meet the criteria of ‘special architectural or historic interest the character or appearance of which is desirable to preserve or enhance’, as set out in Section 61 of the Planning Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas (Scotland) Act 1997. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 147 Cultural Cultural significance means aesthetic, historic, scientific or social value for significance past, present or future generations. Cultural significance can be embodied in a place itself, its fabric, setting, use, associations, meanings, records, related places and related objects. Cumulative Impact in combination with other development. That includes existing impact developments as appropriate, those which have permission, and valid applications which have not been determined. The weight attached to undetermined applications should reflect their position in the application process. Cumulative The effect on the operational performance of transport networks of a number impacts (in of developments in combination, recognising that the effects of a group the context of of sites, or development over an area may need different mitigation when the strategic considered together than when considered individually. transport network) Custom-build Where a person tasks a house builder to tailor a home to their preferences housing before it is built. Decarbonisation Reducing the amount of gaseous carbon compounds released by buildings, activities or operations. Deliverable The expected sequencing of the Local Housing Land Requirement over the housing land short (1-3 years), medium (4-6 years) and long-term (7-10 years), set out in pipeline the local development plan delivery programme. Deliverable land Land that is free from constraints or there is a commitment to overcome constraints, and development is able to be delivered in the period identified for the site within the Deliverable Housing Land Pipeline. Derelict land Previously developed land which is un-remediated and/or which has a constraint caused by its previous use which hampers its redevelopment or naturalisation. Design flood Magnitude of the flood adopted for the design of a site, usually defined in relation to the severity of the flood in terms of its return period. Ecosystem The benefits people obtain from ecosystems. services Egress (safe, A route for the movement of people (not vehicles) of all abilities (on foot or flood free with mobility assistance) between the development and a place of safety pedestrian access outwith the design flood level. and egress) Enabling Enabling development is development that would otherwise be unacceptable development in planning terms, but is essential, to secure the future of an historic environment asset or place which is at risk of serious deterioration or loss. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 148 Essential Essential infrastructure includes digital communications infrastructure; infrastructure telecommunications infrastructure; all forms of renewable, low-carbon and zero emission technologies for electricity generation and distribution and transmission electricity grid networks and primary sub stations; water and waste water infrastructure; and transport proposals and travel networks identified in the local development plan. Evidence report A supporting document to the local development plan. An evidence report summarises the evidence base for those proposals and policies set out in the development plan and demonstrates that appropriate consultation has been undertaken and regard given to the views of the community. Facilities for Facilities where materials can be collected and sorted into the various managing component parts or consolidated into bulk quantities for re-use either in their secondary original or an alternative function and for recovery. materials ‘Recovery’ means any operation the principal result of which is waste serving a useful purpose by replacing other materials which would otherwise have been used to fulfil a particular function, or waste being prepared to fulfil that function, in the plant or in the wider economy. ‘material recovery’ means any recovery operation, other than energy recovery and the reprocessing into materials that are to be used as fuels or other means to generate energy. It includes, inter alia, preparing for re-use, recycling and backfilling; ‘preparing for re-use’ means checking, cleaning or repairing recovery operations, by which products or components of products that have become waste are prepared so that they can be re-used without any other pre-processing. Flood The temporary covering by water from any source of land not normally covered by water, but not including the overflow of a sewage system. Flooding from all Includes: sources Watercourse /Fluvial Flooding – caused by excessive rainfall or snow melt within a limited period, which overwhelms the capacity of the watercourse or river channel, particularly when the ground is already saturated. It can also arise as a result of the blockage of a channel and/or associated structures such as small bridges and culverts; Pluvial Flooding – occurs when rainwater ponds or flows over the ground (overland flow) before it enters a natural or man-made drainage systems (e.g. a river or sewer/drain). It can also occur when drainage systems are at full capacity. It is often combined with sewer flooding and groundwater flooding; Sewer Flooding – occurs when the sewerage infrastructure has to deal with loads beyond its design capacity. This occurs most often as a result of high intensity rainfall events; Groundwater Flooding – occurs when the water table rises above ground level. In Scotland this is most commonly associated with the movement of water through sands and gravels, often connected to the rise and fall of river levels; and Coastal Flooding – occurs as a result of high tide, storm surge and wave activity raising the level of the sea above adjoining land. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 149 Flood risk The combination of the probability of a flood and the potential adverse consequences associated with a flood, for human health, the environment, cultural heritage and economic activity. Flood risk area or For planning purposes, at risk of flooding or in a flood risk area means land at risk of flooding or built form with an annual probability of being flooded of greater than 0.5% which must include an appropriate allowance for future climate change. This risk of flooding is indicated on SEPA’s future flood maps or may need to be assessed in a flood risk assessment. An appropriate allowance for climate change should be taken from the latest available guidance and evidence available for application in Scotland. The calculated risk of flooding can take account of any existing, formal flood protection schemes in determining the risk to the site. Where the risk of flooding is less than this threshold, areas will not be considered ‘at risk of flooding’ for planning purposes, but this does not mean there is no risk at all, just that the risk is sufficiently low to be acceptable for the purpose of planning. This includes areas where the risk of flooding is reduced below this threshold due to a formal flood protection scheme. Forestry and A strategy prepared by a planning authority either singly or in collaboration woodland with other planning authorities, which sets out policies and proposals for the strategy development of forestry and woodlands in their area, according to [section A159] of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997. Freeboard Freeboard is the difference between the design flood level and either the finished floor levels, solum level, or deck level of a specific development. It is a safety margin designed to allow for the uncertainties involved in flood estimation and physical factors that cannot be assessed and vary between sites e.g., post construction settlement and wave action. In many cases an adequate freeboard allowance is 600mm above the design flood level2 (in some situations a more detailed assessment of appropriate freeboard will need to be carried out). Gardens and The Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes recognises sites designed where garden grounds and landscapes have been intentionally laid out for landscapes artistic effect which are of national importance. Their selection, assessment and designation is carried out by Historic Environment Scotland. Designed landscapes are managed primarily through the planning process by the appropriate planning authority. Green Features or spaces within the natural and built environments that provide a infrastructure range of ecosystem services. Green networks Connected areas of green infrastructure and open space, that together form an integrated and multi-functional network. Green recovery An economic recovery that helps us work toward net zero emissions in a way that is fair and that maximises the opportunities to deliver a thriving, sustainable economy. 2 In line with CIRIA Guidance C624 Development and Flood Risk – Guidance for the Construction Industry 2004. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 150 Green space Space, other than agricultural land, which serves a recreational or an amenity function for the public, or provides aesthetic value to the public such as areas of— (a) grass, (b) trees, (c) other vegetation, (d) water. Historic The Inventory of Historic Battlefields recognises sites where a nationally battlefields important battle took place, soldiers fought and died, and where significant military activities happened. Their selection, assessment and designation is carried out by Historic Environment Scotland. Battlefields are managed primarily through the planning process by the appropriate planning authority. Historic The historic environment is ‘the physical evidence for human activity that environment connects people with place, linked with the associations we can see, feel and understand’. Historic An asset (or ‘historic asset’ or ‘heritage asset’) is a physical element of the environment historic environment – a building, monument, site, place, area or landscape asset identified as having cultural significance. Historic marine Historic Marine Protected Areas are areas designated in Scottish territorial protected areas waters (0-12 miles) under the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 for the purpose of preserving marine assets of national importance. These can be wrecks of boats or aircraft or more scattered remains, such as groups of artefacts on the seabed from a submerged prehistoric landscape. Their designation is carried out by Marine Scotland based on advice from Historic Environment Scotland. Huts A simple building used intermittently as recreational accommodation (i.e. not a principal residence); having an internal floor area of no more than 30 square meters ; constructed from low impact materials; generally not connected to mains water, electricity or sewerage; and built in such a way that it is removable with little or no trace at the end of its life. Huts may be built singly or in groups. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 151 Infrastructure first Putting infrastructure considerations at the heart of placemaking. For the purpose of applying the Infrastructure First policy, the following meaning of infrastructure will apply: • communications – including digital and telecommunications networks and connections; • existing and planned transport infrastructure and services; • water management – supply, drainage systems and sewerage (including flood risk management); • energy supplies/energy generation – including electricity and heat networks, distribution and transmission electricity grid networks, and gas supplies; • health and social care services – including both services provided in the community directly by Health Boards and services provided on their behalf by contractors such as GPs, dentists and pharmacists; • education – including early years, primary, secondary, further and higher education services; • green and blue infrastructure; and • spaces for play and recreation. Infrastructure Scottish Government-wide common hierarchy to aid planning and decision- investment making, which prioritises enhancing and maintaining our assets over new hierarchy build. See Infrastructure Investment Plan for Scotland 2021-22 to 2025-26 for further details. To support the Infrastructure Investment Plan and its Infrastructure Investment Hierarchy, also see ‘A guide to Property Asset Strategy in the Scottish Public Sector’ Just transition Ending our contribution to climate change in a way that is fair and leaves no one behind Landbank A landbank is calculated by a Planning Authority and is a means of gauging (construction whether there is sufficient consented construction aggregates (sand/ aggregates) gravel and hard rock) within their relevant market area, to avoid possible disruption and/or delays to supply. The calculation is primarily based on annual extraction figures, sales trends and the known reserves within existing consented sites. Lifeline links A lifeline ferry service required in order for a community to be viable. Listed building A listed building is a built structure of ‘special architectural or historic interest’. The term ‘building’ can be defined as ‘anything made by people’ such as houses, schools, factories, boundary walls, bridges and sculptures. Listing covers the whole of a building or structure including its exterior, interior and any ancillary structures within its curtilage (provided these were constructed before 1 July 1948). Their selection, assessment and designation is carried out by Historic Environment Scotland under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) (Scotland) Act 1997. Listed Buildings are managed primarily through the Listed Building Consent process by the appropriate planning authority. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 152 Local authority Plans or strategies for housing approved by a local authority e.g. Local supported Housing Strategy, Strategic Housing Investment Plan or future versions of affordable such documents. housing plan Local housing The amount of land required for housing, as identified by the local land requirement development plan. The Local Housing Land Requirement (LHLR) is expected to exceed the 10 year Minimum All-Tenure Housing Land Requirement (MATHLR) set out in the National Planning Framework. Local housing Local Housing Strategies were introduced as part of the Housing (Scotland) strategy Act 2001 to widen the strategic and enabling role for local authorities in relation to housing in their area. The Local Housing Strategy (LHS) sets out the outcomes the Council and its partners want to achieve, and the actions they will take, to address housing need and demand in their area Local outcomes A local outcomes improvement plan (LOIP) is produced by a community improvement plan planning partnership (CPP), and describes its local priorities, what improvements the CPP plans for its local communities, and when it will make these improvements. The LOIP covers the whole of the council area that the CPP is responsible for. Locality plan A locality plan is produced by a CPP, and describes its local priorities, what improvements the CPP plans for its local communities, and when it will make these improvements. A locality plan covers a smaller area within a whole CPP area, or may also be produced for groups who share common interests or features, for example, young people leaving care or vulnerable adults. Locations of A location of concern has been defined as a specific, usually public, site concern that is used as a location for suicide and which provides either means or opportunity for suicide. Masterplan A strategic scheme within which a location is proposed to be regenerated or changed in order to meet a perceived challenge or strategic need. Masterplan A masterplan consent area scheme can grant authorisation for the type of consent area development set out in the scheme, within the geographic location (area) to which the scheme relates. In setting out the type of development that the scheme authorises, this can be either expressly specified or described as type of development that is specified in the scheme. Minimum all- There is a statutory requirement for the National Planning Framework to tenure housing contain targets for the use of land in different areas of Scotland for housing. land requirement To meet this, the National Planning Framework includes a Minimum All- Tenure Housing Land Requirement (MATHLR) for each planning authority in Scotland. The MATHLR is the minimum amount of land, by reference to the number of housing units, that is to be provided by each planning authority in Scotland for a 10 year period, as set out in Annex E. The MATHLR is expected to be exceeded in the local development plans Local Housing Land Requirement. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 153 Mitigation The mitigation hierarchy indicates the order hierarchy in which the impacts of development should be considered and addressed. These are: i. Avoid – by removing the impact at the outset ii. Minimise – by reducing the impact iii. Restore – by repairing damaged habitats iv. Offset – by compensating for the residual impact that remains, with preference to on-site over off-site measures. National transport The National Transport Strategy sets out an ambitious vision for Scotland’s strategy 2 transport system for the next 20 years. The vision is underpinned by four priorities: Reduces Inequalities, Takes Climate Action, Helps Deliver Inclusive Economic Growth and Improves our Health and Wellbeing, each with three associated outcomes. The Strategy sets out the strategic framework within which future decisions on investment will be made, including the sustainable travel and investment hierarchies. Nature-based Nature-based solutions are actions to protect, sustainably manage, and solutions restore natural and modified ecosystems that address societal challenges effectively and adaptively, simultaneously providing human wellbeing and biodiversity benefits. Nature network A Nature Network is a joined-up system of places important for wild plants and animals, on land and in water. It allows plants, animals, seeds, nutrients and water to move from place to place and enables the natural world to adapt to change, providing plants and animals with places to live, feed and breed. Effectively functioning nature networks will connect existing nature rich areas through habitat corridors, habitat ‘stepping stones’, or habitat restoration areas. Scotland’s Nature Networks will enable opportunities for achieving ecological connectivity that meet local priorities for biodiversity and nature; whilst building and strengthening an evolving regional and national connectivity. Opportunities for implementation may be identified through, e.g. LDPs and/or Local Biodiversity Action Plans and/or other existing or new mechanisms such as those developed under the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy Delivery Plan, to achieve connectivity within and across urban, peri-urban and rural landscapes. Negative Negative Emissions Technologies (NETs) are an emerging field of emissions technologies that remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphere and technologies utilising carbon capture and storage sequester them permanently. NETs can include forms of Direct Air Capture with Carbon Storage (DACCS), Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) or other more experimental means such as enhanced weathering or biochar. NETs can be considered one form of Greenhouse Gas Removals (GGRs), which also includes natural sequestration methods such as afforestation. It can also be used interchangeably with Carbon Dioxide Removal technologies (CDR). Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 154 Net zero Scotland has set a target to become ‘ Net Zero ‘ by 2045. This means the amount of greenhouse gas emissions we put into the atmosphere and the amount we are able to take out will add up to zero. Open space Space within and on the edge of settlements comprising green space or civic areas such as squares, market places and other paved or hard landscaped areas with a civic function Open space An open space strategy is to set out a strategic framework of the planning strategy authority’s policies and proposals as to the development, maintenance and use of green infrastructure in their district, including open spaces and green networks. It must contain; an audit of existing open space provision, an assessment of current and future requirements, and any other matter which the planning authority consider appropriate. Outdoor sports Uses where sportscotland is a statutory consultee under the Town and facilities Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Scotland) Regulations 2013, which establishes ‘outdoor sports facilities’ as land used as: (a) an outdoor playing field extending to not less than 0.2ha used for any sport played on a pitch; (b) an outdoor athletics track; (c) a golf course; (d) an outdoor tennis court, other than those within a private dwelling, hotel or other tourist accommodation; and (e) an outdoor bowling green. Peatland Defined by the presence of peat soil or peaty soil types. This means that “peat-forming” vegetation is growing and actively forming peat or it has been grown and formed peat at some point in the past. Placemaking Placemaking is the process of creating good quality places that promotes people’s health, happiness and wellbeing. It concerns the environment in which we live; the people that inhabit these spaces; and the quality of life that comes from the interaction of people and their surroundings. Placemaking is a collaborative approach involving the design and development of places over time, with people and communities central to the process. Place principle All those responsible for providing services and looking after assets in a place need to work and plan together, and with local communities, to improve the lives of people, support inclusive and sustainable economic growth and create more successful places. Play sufficiency A play sufficiency assessment is the assessment of the sufficiency of play assessment opportunities for children in their area, carried out by a planning authority under the duty as set out in Section 7(5) Part 16D(1) of Planning (Scotland) Act 2019. The assessment forms part of the evidence report for the preparation of the Local Development Plan. Prime agricultural Prime agricultural land is that identified as being Class 1, 2 or 3.1 in the land land & land of capability classification for agriculture developed by Macaulay Land Use lesser quality that Research Institute (now the James Hutton Institute). is culturally or However, for land of lesser quality that is culturally or locally important locally important for primary use (i.e. for example food production, flood management, for primary use water catchment management and carbon storage), this value should be recognised in decision-making. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 155 Priority peatland Peatland habitats can be divided into four broad classes (blanket bog, habitat upland raised bog, lowland raised bog, and fen), depending on the types of plants that formed the peat. Priority peatland habitats are sub-sets of these broad habitats which have been recognised under the Scottish Biodiversity Framework as being important to protect for their conservation and biodiversity value. Protected The Equality Act defines the following as protected characteristics: characteristics • age • disability • gender reassignment • marriage and civil partnership • pregnancy and maternity • race • religion or belief • sex • sexual orientation Public benefits Public benefits as defined by the current Scottish Government policy on woodland removal. Ramsar sites Wetlands designated under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance. Remedial notice A Remedial Notice is a notice issued by Scottish Ministers if it appears to (forestry) them that a person has failed or is failing to comply with a condition on felling permission, a felling direction (including any condition imposed on it), a restocking direction (including any condition imposed on it), or a registered notice to comply. A Remedial Notice requires the person to take such steps or stop such activity as may be specified in the notice on order to comply with or otherwise give effect to the condition, direction or (as the case may be) registered notice to comply, and, to take steps or stop the activity within the period specified in the notice. Restocking A Restocking Direction is a notice issued by Scottish Ministers, in response direction to an unauthorised felling or a failure to comply with a continuing condition on a felling permission. A restocking direction requires an owner of the land on which the felled tree was located or the land to which the continuing condition relates, to stock the land in question. Recycling Facilities for the purpose of recycling. Recycling means any recovery facilities operation by which waste materials are reprocessed into products, materials or substances whether for the original or other purposes. It includes the reprocessing of organic material but does not include energy recovery and the reprocessing into materials that are to be used as fuels or for backfilling operations. It does not include nuclear reprocessing. Self-build Where a person builds their own house or appoints their own builder. housing Self-provided Includes self-build housing, custom-build housing and collective build housing housing. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 156 Setting Setting is more than the immediate surroundings of a site or building, and may be related to the function or use of a place, or how it was intended to fit into the landscape or townscape, the view from it or how it is seen from areas round about, or areas that are important to the protection of the place, site or building. ‘Setting’ is the way the surroundings of a historic asset or place contribute to how it is understood, appreciated and experienced. Scheduled Scheduled monuments are archaeological sites or monuments of national monument importance that are legally protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. Their selection, assessment and designation is carried out by Historic Environment Scotland who maintains the schedule. Works to Scheduled Monuments are regulated by Historic Environment Scotland through their Scheduled Monument Consent process. Short term let The use of a dwellinghouse (a residential house or flat) for rental by persons other than the owner for short periods and for financial or other remuneration. Typically includes properties advertised as being available for holiday let, although can apply to other situations. Strategic Includes the trunk road and rail networks. Its primary purpose is to provide transport network the safe and efficient movement of strategic long distance traffic between major centres, although in rural areas it also performs important local functions. Sustainable Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising development the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. (The Brundtland Definition. Our Common Future, The World Commission on Environment and Development, 1987). Sustainable The National Transport Strategy 2 Sustainable Investment Hierarchy will be investment used to inform future investment decisions and ensure transport options hierarchy that focus on reducing inequalities and the need to travel unsustainably are prioritised. We also need to focus on maintaining and safely operating existing assets, taking due consideration of the need to adapt to the impacts of climate change. Investment promoting a range of measures, including innovative solutions, to make better use of existing capacity will then be considered, ensuring that existing transport networks and systems are fully optimised. Only following these steps should investment involving targeted infrastructure improvements be considered. Sustainable Sustainable tourism is defined by the United Nation World Tourism tourism Organisation as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.” Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 157 Sustainable travel Sustainable travel includes travel by the top three modes in the sustainable travel hierarchy. It is recognised that in some locations, particularly in rural areas, where the top three modes have been judged as unfeasible for day to day travel, low emissions vehicles and shared transport options will play an important role. Sustainable travel The National Transport Strategy 2 Sustainable Travel Hierarchy should be hierarchy used in decision making by promoting walking, wheeling, cycling, public transport and shared transport options in preference to single occupancy private car use for the movement of people. The efficient and sustainable freight transport for the movement of goods, particularly the shift from road to rail should also be promoted. Town centre Centres which display: - a diverse mix of uses, including shopping; - a high level of accessibility; - qualities of character and identity which create a sense of place and further the well-being of communities; - wider economic and social activity during the day and in the evening; and - integration with residential areas. Town centre first The Town Centre First Principle asks that government, local authorities, the wider public sector, businesses and communities put the health of town centres at the heart of decision making. It seeks to deliver the best local outcomes, align policies and target available resources to prioritise town centre sites, encouraging vibrancy, equality and diversity. Town centre Towns and town centres are for the wellbeing of people, the planet and the vision economy. Towns are for everyone and everyone has a role to play in making their own town and town centre successful. Transport A Transport Appraisal should inform the spatial strategy by appraising the appraisal impact of the potential spatial strategy options on the transport network, in line with Transport Scotland’s Development Planning and Management Transport Appraisal Guidance. It should determine the potential impacts of development on the transport network and mitigation to address adverse impacts, how they will be funded and who should deliver these. This should inform the Proposed Plan. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 158 Transport A Transport Assessment report should aim to provide supporting evidence assessment to accompany the planning application to demonstrate that the development is sited in a location where current and likely future travel behaviour will produce a desired and predicted transport output. The Transport Assessment should provide information in a suitable form to enable the local authority and, if necessary, Transport Scotland to assess and determine the planning application, seek any changes to the proposal and devise necessary planning conditions or negotiate planning or other legal agreements. Travel plan A Travel Plan (TP) is a document that sets out a package of positive and complementary measures for the overall delivery of more sustainable travel patterns for a specific development. Their ability and success in influencing travel patterns is dependent upon the commitment of the developer or occupier of a development and the enforcement of travel plan monitoring by the local authority. Travel plans should be implemented to encourage a shift in transport mode for those travelling to and from a development. Unused or under- An area of land that is stalled awaiting development, or a pocket of land used land within neighbourhood that is not developed or cannot be developed for other meaningful use or does not have particular identified long-term use. Vacant land Previously developed land, without physical constraint, which the Planning Authority has indicated is currently available for redevelopment. Veteran tree A veteran tree can be classified as such due to age (including relative age for its species) or for its biological, aesthetic, or cultural interest. Veteran trees are usually mature and provide additional habitat from natural damage, environmental conditions or management (e.g. coppice, decay hollows, fungal fruiting bodies, cavities). Water compatible Comprise: uses - flood control infrastructure - environmental monitoring stations - water transmission infrastructure and pumping stations - sewage transmission infrastructure and pumping stations - sand and gravel workings - docks, marinas and wharves - navigation facilities - Ministry of Defence (MOD) defence installations - ship building, repairing, and dismantling - dockside fish processing and refrigeration and compatible activities requiring a waterside location - water-based recreation (excluding sleeping accommodation) - lifeguard and coastguard stations - amenity open space - nature conservation and biodiversity - outdoor sports and recreation and essential facilities such as changing rooms - essential ancillary sleeping or residential accommodation for staff required by uses in this category, subject to a specific operational warning and evacuation plan. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 159 Wellbeing Building an economy that is inclusive and that promotes sustainability, economy prosperity and resilience, where businesses can thrive and innovate, and that supports all of our communities across Scotland to access opportunities that deliver local growth and wellbeing. Wheeling Travelling by wheelchair. Woodland Land under stands of trees with a canopy cover of at least 20%, or having the potential to achieve this, including integral open space, and including felled areas that are awaiting restocking (replanting). The minimum area is 0.1 ha and there is no minimum height. World heritage World Heritage Sites are internationally important cultural and/or natural sites heritage sites which have been inscribed for their “Outstanding Universal Value”. Though no additional statutory controls result from world heritage designation, the impact of proposed development upon the outstanding universal value, including its authenticity and integrity of a World Heritage Site and its setting, is a material consideration in determining planning applications. Their assessment and designation is carried out by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) based on advice from State Parties and the relevant devolved Government. Part 3 – Annexes National Planning Framework 4 160 Annex G – Acronyms BARR Buildings at Risk Register BECCS Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage CCS Carbon Capture and Storage CCUS Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage CDR Carbon Dioxide Removal technologies CO2 Carbon Dioxide CoRE Community Renewable Energy CPP Community Planning Partnership CWB Community Wealth Building DACCS Direct Air Capture with Carbon Storage EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EU European Union GGRs Greenhouse Gas Removals HNZ Heat Network Zones HRA Habitats Regulations Appraisal HS2 High Speed 2 IGTZ Industrial Green Transition Zones IIP Infrastructure Investment Plan kv Kilovolts LDPs Local Development Plans LHEES Local Heat & Energy Efficiency Strategy LHLR Local Housing Land Requirement LOIP Local Outcomes Improvement Plan LPPs Local Place Plans MATHLR Minimum All-Tenure Housing Land Requirement MOD Ministry of Defence NETs Negative Emissions Technologies NPF National Planning Framework NPF4 National Planning Framework 4 ORIC Orkney Research and Innovation Campus ORION Opportunity for Renewable Integration with Offshore Networks PNCP Perthshire Nature Connections Partnership RSS Regional Spatial Strategies SDGs Sustainable Development Goals SEPA Scottish Environment Protection Agency TP Travel Plan UK United Kingdom UN United Nations UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation Part 3 – Annexes © Crown copyright 2023 This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open- government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: psi@nationalarchives.gsi.gov.uk. Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned. This publication is available at www.gov.scot Any enquiries regarding this publication should be sent to us at The Scottish Government St Andrew’s House Edinburgh EH1 3DG ISBN: 978-1-80525-482-9 (web only) Published by The Scottish Government, February 2023 Produced for The Scottish Government by APS Group Scotland, 21 Tennant Street, Edinburgh EH6 5NA PPDAS1221422 (02/23) w w w . g o v . s c o t

National Planning Framework 4

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