Green Belts
Following research carried out in 2004, the draft SPP21: Green Belts was launched for consultation in August 2005. SPP21 is intended to replace Circular 24/85 which has now reached its 20th birthday.
There are a number of changes to the policy, aimed at strengthening green belts as an effective strategic tool for land use and settlement planning, tying the policy closely into the development planning process and ensuring robust policies to protect against inappropriate development in the green belt. There is also a new emphasis on the management of land once it has been designated as green belt.
The consultation on the draft SPP ran from 5 August to 28 October 2005. Over 170 responses were received from a range of interested individuals and organisations. Around half of the responses resulted from a campaign organised by the Scottish Green Belts Alliance. Many thanks to all who responded. Where respondents agreed to their comments being made public, they can be viewed on the Scottish Executive website - http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2005/12/02114906/49066 .
All of the responses are now being analysed independently and a report of that analysis will be published in due course.
Responses will feed into the preparation of the final SPP which is due for publication in spring 2006.
For further information on Green Belts contact
Rosie Leven on 0131 244 7553,
Emailrosie.leven@scotland.gsi.gov.uk