This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
Listen
Edinburgh and Lothians Structure Plan
15/01/2004
Scottish Ministers today proposed that some modifications be made to the Edinburgh and the Lothians Structure Plan prior to approval. Before a final decision is made, interested parties have an opportunity over the next six weeks to make further comments.
The Plan provides a long term strategic vision to shape development and the environment in the area until 2015.
The most significant modifications require:
• Early review of the Plan to take account of ongoing transport and housing concerns and the wider regional context.
• The inclusion of a more effective and timely process for monitoring housing land supply.
• A reduction in the extent of the core development area around the A701 corridor.
• Changes to waste and flooding policies to bring them in line with national policy.
Communities Minister Margaret Curran said:
"The wider Edinburgh area is probably the fastest growing part of Scotland. It is essential that up-to-date planning policies are in place to help deliver development needs in sustainable locations and to protect the heritage which underpins the area's quality of life. I consider that this Structure Plan will be fundamental in delivering these aims and therefore should be approved as quickly as possible."
"However, I recognise that change is now so rapid that there is clearly a need for a further Plan in the relatively near future to take forward the continuing and growing needs of the area and to take account of the contribution that could be made by surrounding areas. I am therefore requiring the authorities to begin a review of the Plan no later than 2006."
Following submission of the Plan to Scottish Ministers for approval, objections were received from 253 individuals and bodies. These have been carefully considered in preparing the draft modifications. In addition, modifications have been made to ensure that the Plan accords with published national planning policy.
The Structure Plan has been prepared jointly by Edinburgh City Council, East Lothian Council, Midlothian Council and West Lothian Council and was submitted to Scottish Ministers in June 2003.
The draft modifications will be advertised and made available in local Council offices, followed by a six week period for further objections and representations before final modifications are prepared and the Plan approved.