Certainly one of the most keenly awaited conference sessions is an update on the Scottish Government’s new Planning Bill promised for 2017.
The property world’s frustration at the time taken to move forward on this vital issue was exacerbated this month by yet another “consultation”, running until April.
The topic had already been reviewed in detail by an independent panel, who heard from communities, developers, professional planners and wide range of organisations, then made clear recommendations for change last May.
Instead of the expected legislation, there is to be another round of engagement, with chief planner John McNairney lined up with a slot at this RICS event to outline what the system might look like.
Stronger local development plans are on the way and the proposed increase in planning fees will prove acceptable – providing developers can see an improved service.
While other new ideas, such as a stronger voice for young people, have been welcomed, it is currently difficult to envisage how that might work in practice.
RICS certainly believe substantial changes are needed to make things work better, and have joined with RTPI and the Institute of Civil Engineers to outline five key priorities, a kind of professional bodies’ wish list.
They want to see an infrastructure first approach to planning and development, more resources for planning and building control departments which have seen staff cuts of 20 per cent since 2010, a plan led approach rather than responding to individual applications, more holistic thinking and better overall co-ordination.
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