Positive response to framework consultation

By Jim Dow

FEEDBACK on Scotland’s proposed National Planning Framework has generally been positive, according to the Scottish Government.

With the consultation period now over, more than 300 responses were received. During the summer they will be independently analysed and revised, with a final draft submitted for parliamentary scrutiny in the autumn.

Despite positive feedback, there was some concern that the discussion draft is too Central Belt-focused.

Other points made during the consultation included:

• Improved road and rail connections for and between

Better transport for Scotland's docks is on the wish-list

ports, including Aberdeen, Peterhead, Dundee, Burntisland, Ayr, Cairnryan/Stranraer and Troon;

• Realisation of the potential of deepwater opportunities at Hunterston and Sullom Voe;

• Prestwick and Aberdeen airports should be given the same status as those of Edinburgh and Glasgow;

• More importance should be given to Edinburgh and Glasgow as rail hubs;

• Realisation of the potential offered by “Glasgow Crossrail”;

• Clarification on whether the new Forth crossing will be an additional rather than replacement link.

There were calls for a clearer steer on the strategic aspects of flood risk and waste management, and concerns about the locational implications of radioactive waste management policy.

There were also calls for major growth or regeneration areas such as the Inner Moray Firth, Edinburgh Waterfront, Clyde Gateway, Ravenscraig and Ardeer in Irvine to be afforded greater status, and for stronger statements on the strategic roles of Ayrshire, Aberdeen city and shire and Dumfries and Galloway.

The need was underlined for more climate change adaptation and concerns that national developments don’t reflect or are at odds with environmental objectives, particularly with regard to airports.