Green belt policy to be revised
5 Aug 05
Draft Scottish Planning Policy proposes enhanced role for green belts
Strengthening the role of green belts in the development of towns and cities is part of a new planning policy now out for consultation.
Published today, the Scottish Executive draft Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) 21: Green Belts restates the key objectives of green belt policy. These are to direct planning growth to the most appropriate locations and support regeneration; protect and enhance the character, landscape setting and identity of towns and cities; and protect and give access to open space within and around towns and cities.
This is the first policy review of green belts in 20 years. The SPP sets out that land designated as green belt in an area's development plan can provide benefits such as giving communities outdoor recreational opportunities, biodiversity and an enhanced quality of life. "Opportunities should be taken to protect and enhance these benefits", it continues.
Where it is considered necessary, the proposed release of green belt land should be taken forward as part of a long-term settlement strategy in the development plan. This will ensure widespread engagement and debate on the future shape of settlements.
Communities Minister Malcolm Chisholm said: "In some areas, existing green belts are not providing long term certainty and have been undermined by piecemeal development management decisions.
"Green belt policy should be used to provide clarity and certainty on where development will and will not take place. Green belts should have a time frame of at least 20 years and there should continue to be a strong presumption against development in green belts."
The new SPP 21 will replace the policy on green belts contained in Circular 24/85: Development in the Countryside and Green Belts.