Scottish Government

Convention on Wetlands of International Importance 1971 (amended 1982 and 1987)

Otherwise known as the Ramsar Convention, this emphasises the special value of wetland, particularly as a key habitat for waterfowl. The Convention resulted in designation of sites for management, conservation at international level.

Requirement to protect these sites from loss or damage by development.

Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (1979)

Aimed to promote co-operation between European states to protect biodiversity.

Requirement to protect these sites from loss or damage by development.

UN Convention on Biological Diversity (1992)

Article 6 requires that all parties to the Convention develop national biodiversity strategies plans or programmes, and that they seek to integrate the provisions of these across other policy sectors. Article 7 requires the identification of key resources, and their protection. Monitoring of potentially damaging process and activities should also be undertaken. .

Requirement to protect these sites from loss or damage by development.

Council Directive 92/43/ EEC the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora

Established a commitment to designating networks of sites of ecological importance across Europe. These are known as Natura 2000 sites and include special protection areas ( SPAs designated under the Birds Directive - see below) and special areas of conservation ( SACs)

Requirement to protect these sites from loss or damage by development.

The National Planning Framework will also be required to be subjected to an 'appropriate assessment' under Article 6(3) of the Directive.

Council Directive 79/409/ EEC on the conservation of wild birds

Protects all wild birds (together with their nests and eggs) and their associated habitats. Commitment to designation of SPAs (see previous).

Requirement to protect these sites from inappropriate development as far as possible.

The Pan-European Biological and Landscape Diversity Strategy (1995)

The Strategy aims to reverse the decline of landscape and biological diversity, by promoting innovation and proactive policy making. It supports preceding measures for protecting natural heritage, and aims to supplement this by further supporting a number of action themes relating to different environmental resources.

The National Planning Framework should support the Strategy and national policies and programmes that have emerged as a result. The emphasis on maintaining diversity and distinctiveness should be borne in mind as far as possible.

EU Biodiversity Strategy (1998)

Aims to "anticipate, prevent and attack" any reduction or loss of species and habitats across Europe. Supports implementation of the Habitats and Birds Directives, supports the establishment of networks of protected sites, aims to achieve conservation by making plans for priority resources. Also notes the importance of biodiversity outside of protected areas. Makes specific references to agriculture and its role in relation to biodiversity conservation.

The National Planning Framework should seek to support these broad aims and commitments, through measures to protect and enhance ecological resources, maximising opportunities for conservation through strategic land use decisions, and overall integration of these principles into national planning decisions. Spatial planning can play a role in supporting habitat networks, ecological corridors, buffer zones etc.

Nature Conservation (Scotland ) Act 2004

Introduced a 'duty to further the conservation of biodiversity' for all pubic bodies, and sets out more specific provisions within this (e.g. for SSSIs). Also states a requirement for the preparation of a Scottish Biodiversity Strategy, to which all public bodies should pay regard.

Confirms that the National Planning Framework should seek to protect biodiversity in accordance with the Act, including by avoiding adverse impacts on sites, habitats and species of value as defined in the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy and associated priority lists.

Scotland's Biodiversity - It's In Your Hands. A strategy for the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity in Scotland (2004)

Sets out Scottish aims relating to biodiversity. Seeks to go beyond a previous emphasis on protecting individual sites to achieve conservation at a broader scale. Aims to halt loss and reverse decline of key species, to raise awareness of biodiversity value at a landscape or ecosystem scale, and to promote knowledge, understanding and involvement amongst people.

The National Planning Framework should support these aims, and could play a particularly valuable role in promoting biodiversity conservation and enhancement at a broader, landscape scale.

NPPG14 Natural Heritage (1999)

Provides the key statement on planning in relation to natural heritage. Summarises obligations in relation to natural heritage, and provides specific advice on how these can be taken forward in development plans. Includes an emphasis on safeguarding and enhancing natural heritage outwith designated sites. Notes that planning has an important role to play in meeting requirements for land for housing, transport, economic activity and recreation, whilst avoiding loss of natural heritage capital. This should be partly achieved by restricting development, but NPPG14 notes that development may not necessarily conflict with environmental conservation. New development on previously degraded sites can also help to achieve enhancement objectives.

The National Planning Framework should reflect this approach to natural heritage conservation, and recognise the positive role of planning in achieving enhancement, in addition to more protective measures where required.

PAN60 Planning for Natural Heritage (2000)

PAN60 provides further advice on how natural heritage can be supported by planning policy and decision making. It states that landscape character protection and enhancement, biodiversity conservation, outdoor recreation and environmental education should all be important planning objectives, as together they help to achieve sustainable environments and support quality of life. It recommends cross sectoral working to achieve shared biodiversity objectives, as well as planning led action.

The National Planning Framework should seek to achieve cross sectoral consistency by taking into account wider biodiversity objectives. The role of planning in relation to landscapes and biodiversity, and in terms of raising awareness and appreciation of natural heritage, should be reinforced by the National Planning Framework as far as possible.

Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003

Set out a new right of responsible access in Scotland, and made provisions for community right to buy. Core paths to be identified in each local authority area, promoting more widespread and functional walking, cycling and riding and thereby supporting improved levels of physical activity.

The NPF should pay regard to the changing context for access and community land ownership, and should build this into proposals as far as possible (e.g. reflect in emphasis on sustainable transport).

Closing the Opportunity Gap (2004)

This is the Scottish Executive's overall approach to reducing social disadvantage in Scotland. It aims to prevent people from falling into poverty, to provide routes out of poverty and to sustain people in lifestyles that are free from poverty. The six objectives include increasing employment opportunities for disadvantaged groups, building confidence and skills of young people, reducing financial exclusion, neighbourhood regeneration, health improvement and provision of improved access to services.

Several of these aims can be indirectly assisted by the National Planning Framework, and it has a direct contribution to make to the commitments to improving access to services and neighbourhood regeneration.

Homes for Scotland's People: A Scottish Housing Policy Statement, 2005

Sets out the Scottish Executive's commitments to housing. Particularly aims to provide more affordable housing, through diversification of ownership structures and ensuring planning plays a role in releasing land for housing in development plans. Also states a need to invest in infrastructure to meet the capacity requirements of new housing, and to improve the quality of the social rented housing sector. Aims to address homelessness and eradicate fuel poverty.

These housing policy commitments should be supported through the strategic provisions of the National Planning Framework.

People and Place: Regeneration Policy Statement

Provides the policy commitments relating to regeneration, moving the agenda forward in light of recent progress. States continuing commitments to the Clyde Corridor as a national priority and also emphasises the regional impacts of regeneration in Ayrshire and Inverclyde. Aims to improve governance in these areas and to particularly target transport connections to aid the regeneration process.

The National Planning Framework should reflect these priorities and seek to define how strategic land use planning can help to deliver change in these areas.

SPP3 Planning for Housing (2003)

Aims to ensure that planning promotes high quality residential environments, and delivers an effective and sufficient supply of housing land in appropriate locations. Notes that sustainable extensions to settlements should be carefully planned and states that new housing should be guided to locations that are accessible by foot, cycle and public transport. States that a plan led approach should be taken to delivering housing land, with development plans setting out how demand for housing will be met. Plans should be regularly updated and alternative provisions should be made where there are delays in plan making that reduce the capacity to keep up with housing demand.

The principles of sustainable and proactive planning for residential development proposed by SPP3 should be reflected in the National Planning Framework. It should help to ensure that strategic housing allocations and settlement expansions are guided to appropriate locations, although it may not necessarily go as far as identifying specific sites for this type of development.

PAN74 Affordable Housing (2005)

Sets out guidance on how planning authorities can help to deliver an appropriate mix of housing in terms of type, tenure, price and location. Notes that the need for affordable housing varies between localities as a result of varying market conditions. Affordable housing should be viewed as an integral part of the overall supply of housing.

The National Planning Framework should help to support this by promoting opportunities to develop mixed, sustainable communities. Potential role to pay in spatial interpretation of the 2004 Review of Affordable Housing in Scotland.

UK Fuel Poverty Strategy (Fourth Annual Progress Report, 2006)

Covers the Scottish commitment to eliminating fuel poverty in Scotland by November 2016, as far as is reasonably practicable. The Scottish Executive was also aiming to achieve a 30% reduction n fuel poverty in Scotland by 2006. .

Although much of the action on fuel poverty to date has focused on practical changes to the energy efficiency of individual households, the National Planning Framework should take this commitment into account when considering broader approaches to energy generation and efficiency at a national level.

Scottish Executive (2003) Improving Health in Scotland - The Challenge

Overarching strategy for health that covers, physical, social and mental health. Raises awareness of health as a cross sectoral issue, and notes the need to address key risk factors. Also raises issue of health inequalities in Scotland, and states that Community Planning Partnerships are an important mechanism for overcoming this at the local level, including by helping to improve physical and social environments.

The National Planning Framework should avoid exacerbating any existing patterns of health inequalities in Scotland through appropriate spatial decision making. Wider commitments to improving physical and social improvements should help to support policy aspirations for health and well being. More specific measures could be undertaken in relation to physical activity (see below).

Physical Activity Task Force (2003) Let's Make Scotland More Active

Aims to ensure that the Scottish population becomes more active, setting the target of all adults accumulating at least 30 minutes of moderate activity on most days of the week, and an hour for children. By achieving improved rates of activity, levels of chronic heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, colon cancer could be substantially reduced.

The National Planning Framework has a role to play in helping reduce the barriers to physical activity, including lack of facilities, lack of transport access to facilities, and concerns about the safety and quality of the environment. In addition, the strategy emphasises the need to build physical activity into everyday routines. Sustainable transport, including the promotion of walking and cycling, is a key means of achieving this.

SPP11 Physical Activity and Open Space (Consultative Draft) 2006

Sets out a framework for planning to support both passive and active recreation. Notes the importance of good quality green space as part of civic realm, and states that councils should prepare open space strategies, based on audits of their areas.

The National Planning Framework should recognise the importance of high quality open space and could hep to identify where strategic green networks and access to the countryside should be improved.

EU Thematic Strategy for Soil Protection (2005)

Notes that soil has important functions but that degradation of its quality is accelerating, partly due to wind and water erosion and also as a result of depletion of organic matter content. It sets out commitments to improving quality as a result, including development of a New Directive.

A Scotland wide strategy for soil will be developed in the near future. In the meantime the provisions of the European Strategy should form a framework for soil protection and improvement that the National Planning Framework should take into account.

PAN33 Development of Contaminated Land (2000)

Emphasises the role of the planning system of reclaiming and developing contaminated land as a means of improving its general amenity and environmental contribution. States that contamination should be taken into account within the preparation of development plans.

The National Planning Framework could assist with these aims by supporting wider objectives of redeveloping brownfield sites and achieving other forms of reclamation and remediation. .

Water Framework Directive 2000/60/ EC

This provides an overarching strategy, including a requirement for EU Member States to ensure that they achieve 'good ecological status' by 2015. River Basin Management Plans were defined as the key means of achieving this.

The National Planning Framework should seek to ensure that any proposals or polices support this aim by avoiding adverse impacts on the water environment. Scope to complement the aims of the Scotland and Solway-Tweed RBMPs should be considered as they emerge in parallel with the NPF.

Water Environment and Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003 ( WEWS Act)

Transposes the Directive into the Scottish context. Aims to protect the water environment including by ensuring a reliable and high quality supply of water, reducing groundwater pollution significantly, and protecting marine and other waters. More specifically, sets out arrangements for River Basin Management Planning in Scotland and Controlled Activities Regulations.

Scope to complement the activities of SEPA in developing RBMPs and applying Controlled Activities Regulations ( CAR) should be considered during the preparation of the National Planning Framework.

SEPA (2006) A Plan of Action - River Basin Planning in the Scotland River Basin District, Consultation Document

SEPA (2006) A Plan of Action - Solway Tweed River Basin Planning, Consultation Document

Currently open for consultation, these reports set out the proposed arrangements for River Basin Management Planning in the each of Scotland's two RBD. They state that reports setting out Significant Water Management Issues ( SWMI) will be published in July 2007, with draft RBMPs anticipated in 2008.

This shows that the SWMI reports should be available during the preparation of the NPF. Further consideration of scope for the National Planning Framework to complement RBMPs should be undertaken in light of the content of this report.

The Water Environment (Controlled Activities) (Scotland) Regulations 2005

Sets out the process by which activities that have the potential to affect Scotland's water environment are regulated. Authorisation under the CAR is required for discharging to waters, disposal of pollutants to land, abstractions, impoundments and engineering works affecting water bodies.

This regime should be taken into account, within the National Planning Framework.

Scottish Water, Draft National Sludge Strategy (2006) and Associated SEA Environmental Report

Sets out proposals to significant reduce the proportion of sewage sludge that is recycled untreated to land, and to increase levels of recycling to agricultural use and energy from waste / incineration.

These proposals could have implications for requirements for energy from waste facilities that would be taken into account as part of the National Waste Strategy. The National Planning Framework should seek to ensure that any infrastructure requirements arising from proposals can be sustainably met.

Scottish Executive Environment Group (2002) Scotland's Bathing Waters A Strategy for Improvement

Aims to reduce water pollution in order to specifically improve bathing water catchments. Measures include changes to agricultural practices to address diffuse pollution, ensuring compliance with controls of industrial discharges, and making more use of Sustainable Urban drainage Systems ( SUDS).

The National Planning Framework can support some of these objectives, including by considering scope to encourage SUDS as part of large scale developments.

SPP7 Planning and Flooding (2004)

Sets out requirements for planning authorities to take into account flood risk in allocating sites for development and making decisions about applications. Sets out a national risk framework, and prescribes appropriate responses in accordance with varying levels of flood risk. Notes that proposals for development that rely on flood prevention measures should be viewed with caution.

In allocating any strategic areas for future development, the National Planning Framework should take into account flood risk. The potential additional influence of climate change should also be borne in mind given the long term nature of the document.

PAN79 Water and Drainage (2006)

Provides advice on how planners can work with other organisations to ensure that water and waste water infrastructure meets the needs of current and future households.

Notes that Scottish Water is required to priorities investment in infrastructure in accordance with spatial priorities identified in the National Planning Framework. The principles of collaboration and consideration of capacity and constraints should be borne in mind during the preparation of the National Planning Framework.

PAN61 Planning and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (2001)

Explains the working principles of SUDS, and notes the important role that planning has to play in delivering SUDS. States that strategic level planning should provide guidance on SUDS where major areas of urban expansion or regeneration are identified.

Whilst this a relative site specific issue, it would be useful for the National Planning Framework to note the potential role of SUDS and highlight where it should be prioritised in relation to any proposed national developments.

1996/62/ EC Directive on ambient air quality assessment and management

Overarching Directive on air qualiy that seeks to provide a co-ordinated and consistent approach to air quality in order to avoid negative impacts on health and the environment. Aims to achieve improvements in air quality where it is poor and sets out a framework for monitoring.

Overall commitment to air quality should be taken into account, particularly in terms of potential influence of land use decisions, and specific contribution of the transport sector.

1999/30/ EC Directive relating to limit values for sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and oxides of nitrogen, particulate matter and lead in ambient air

Provides more specific guidance on the need to improve air quality and reduce emissions of specific types of gas.

Commitments to reducing specific air pollutants should be taken into account within the National Planning Framework as appropriate. More specific UK and Scottish targets should be used to guide decision making.

EU Thematic Strategy on Air Pollution (2005)

Sets out interim objectives for improving air quality. Notes that existing legal instruments will be merged to form single Directive on Air Quality. States that air pollution can have consequences for health and ecosystems, with the latter being caused primarily by processes of acidification and eutrophication. Sets targets for reducing specific pollutants.

As noted above, the National Planning Framework could help to contribute to these targets, including by making appropriate policies for transport, waste management and other potentially polluting activities.

The Air Quality Strategy for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Working Together for Clean Air (2000)

Provides more specific UK targets for reducing air pollution and sets out local authority responsibilities for achieving most of these. States that land use planning and transport planning have a key role to play in contributing to these targets.

As noted above, the National Planning Framework should contribute to these aims where possible. In particular there is a national level need to focus on reducing ground level ozone (which is partly caused by transboundary pollution) and by reducing vehicle use.

Kyoto Protocol (1997)

Sets out international agreement on targets and mechanisms for addressing climate change. Includes commitments to improved energy efficiency, reductions of greenhouse gases, carbon sequestration, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, appropriate market mechanisms, sustainable transport and waste management.

The National Planning Framework has a role to play in helping to achieve these high level objectives. Measures could include broad scale promotion of sustainable transport and associated patterns of settlement, achieving a modal shift in transport, and making appropriate land use decisions to help reduce harmful emissions.

The Second European Climate Change Programme (currently in preparation)

The first programme focused on achieving climate change targets by reducing emissions and increasing carbon sequestration. The review notes that the work identified in the first programme is being undertaken according to plan, but that further measures will be required in order to meet the EU's commitments under the Kyoto agreement. Some aspects of the first programme have been more successful than others, with energy generation targets having been met, but transport objectives proving more difficult to achieve. Current Commission policy is therefore focusing on achieving modal shift (with targets to reduce CO ₂ emissions of cars having already been met).

The National Planning Framework could contribute to established and emerging climate change objectives, particularly as interpreted for Scotland in the national programme (see below). Important to recognise dual aims of reducing emissions and achieving sequestration.

Changing Our Ways - Scotland's Climate Change Programme (2006)

Provides national interpretation of broader climate change objectives. States that Scotland is seeking to exceed its share of carbon emission reductions by 1 million tonnes, going beyond UK targets of a 12.5% reduction in greenhouse gases between 2008 and 2012, a reduction of C0 ₂ by 20% by 2010 and 60% by 2050.

The National Planning Framework can help to achieve this by promoting renewable energy, seeking to encourage energy efficiency, reducing the use of the car by promoting sustainable alternatives, helping to reduce waste that is landfilled by supporting recycling, and helping to increase carbon sequestration.

Department for Transport: Future of Air Transport White Paper

Sets out recommended strategic framework for developing UK airport capacity over the next 30 yeas. Notes the importance of air travel for people and businesses and also emphasises the need to manage environmental effects of the growth of the sector, including by emissions trading. Proposals a new runway and expanded facilities at Edinburgh airport, and safeguarding of land at Glasgow airport to allow use of the full length of the runway. Further improvements are expected at Prestwick airport and over the longer term at Aberdeen, Dundee and Inverness.

The National Planning Framework should take the findings of this assessment into account, in order to ensure it helps to facilitate development as far as is environmentally acceptable.

Scottish Executive (2006) Scotland's National Transport Strategy (and associated SEA)

Sets out overall aims including improving journey times and connections, reducing emissions, and improving the quality, accessibility and affordability of public transport. Also states a commitment to introducing a carbon balance sheet that will be applied in relation to each key decision under the strategy.

The National Planning Framework should take the provisions of the NTS into account and contribute to the overarching aim of supporting economic growth, communities and the environment by providing efficient transport infrastructure. The NPF could also play a key role in helping to reduce the number of journeys by car and to increase rates of walking, cycling and use of public transport.

SPP17 Planning for Transport (2005)

Sets out relationship between land use planning and transport. Planning can help to reduce the need to Travel through appropriate land allocations and settlement strategies, help to achieve a shift to more environmentally sustainable modes of transport, and help to reduce environmental impacts. Transport Assessments should be used early in the development process to build an understanding of potential impacts of development decisions.

The National Planning Framework is likely to provide proposals relating to strategic transport choices, and should reflect the policies set out in SPP17 in addition to wider transport plans. Scope for practical contributions to the transport agenda (e.g. realising opportunities for deep water shipping facilities) should explored further.

UK Energy White Paper. Our energy future - creating a low carbon economy (2003)

Sets out the challenges for the energy sector in the UK, and defines how it should change over the coming years. Key priorities include reducing CO ₂ emissions from the sector by 60% by 2050 (and substantially by 2020), providing more reliable energy supplies, updating the energy supply network (including the grid) and creating more diversity, including by promoting more renewable energy generation and local level supplies.

This overall framework sets the context within which decisions on energy supplies and infrastructure within the National Planning Framework should be set. The National Planning Framework has a potential role to play I helping to reduce emissions, and update and increase the reliability and diversity of energy supplies.

Securing a Renewable Future: Scotland's Renewable Energy (2003)

Set the ambitious target of generating 40% of Scotland's energy from renewable sources by 2020. Notes that diversification of energy sources will be key to further diversification. Also aims to support continued partnership working between public and private sectors and to stimulate small. Scale community and householder renewables schemes.

The National Planning Framework should aim to contribute to this target through the suggested measures as far as is possible - complementing and supporting the role of SPP6.

Scotland's Renewable Energy Potential: realising the 2020 target (2005)

Considers the role of different technologies and infrastructure capacity to meet the target of generating 40% of energy in Scotland from renewable sources by 2020. Notes that this will require a further installed capacity of around 3.4 GW, to meet the estimated need for a total of 6 GW to meet this target. States that the future mix remains uncertain, partly due to anticipated closure of some existing plant. It would be inappropriate to apportion growth to different technologies, but suggests that further investment and development of marine and biomass would be beneficial.

The National Planning Framework could provide further guidance on how these targets should be met, complementing the provisions of SPP6 (see below). Important to consider implications of potential closures of key generators alongside impacts of new infrastructure and plant.

SPP6 Renewable Energy. Consultation Draft (2006)

Sets out a proposed framework for planning to encourage, approve and implement renewable energy proposals. Focuses on fulfilling targets for renewable energy generation, and also emphasises the importance of community engagement, steering development to appropriate sites and exploiting the potential benefits of renewable energy schemes, whilst avoiding adverse impacts as far as possible.

States that development plans should provide locational advice on locations for renewable energy proposals (broad areas of search for onshore windfarms). The National Planning Framework could potentially provide further strategic guidance to assist with this part of the process, as well as reflecting the generally positive and proactive tone of the SPP and considering the capacity of planned strategic infrastructure (grid)..

Taking sustainable use of resources forward: A Thematic Strategy on the prevention and recycling of waste ( EU, 2005)

One of several sectorally focused strategies produced under the Environmental Action Programme.

Emphasis on recycling of materials borne out in National Waste Plan for Scotland (see below).

Council Directive 99/31/ EC 'Landfill Directive'

Defines three categories of waste (landfills for hazardous, non-hazardous and inert waste) and provides a standard waste acceptance procedure to accompany requirements for licensing of landfill operators. States the need for national strategies that set out how biodegradable waste being disposed of in landfill sites can be reduced in favour of recycling, composting biogas or materials / energy recovery. Sets targets for reducing landfilled municipal waste: 35% 1995 levels by 2016.

Provides the strategic framework, which the National Waste Plan was prepared. Emphasises the challenges associated with achieving more sustainable waste management and focuses efforts on reducing biodegradable municipal waste going to landfill.

National Waste Plan 2003

Brings together Area Waste Plans and sets out an action plan for radical change to waste management in Scotland. Key challenges include reducing landfilled waste in line with EU targets (see above), and increasing recycling, composting and energy from waste. Confirms target of recycling or composting 25% of municipal waste by 2006 and 55% by 2020. Underlying aims include reducing the environmental impacts of waste management and addressing current environmental injustices.

Continuing progress towards reaching waste management goals will require further provision of appropriate facilities and infrastructure. Cross boundary working is important to achieve this in an efficient way, and the National Planning Framework could complement Area Waste Plans and the National Waste Strategy by exploring requirements for strategic facilities.

SPP10 Planning and Waste Management. Consultation Draft (2006)

Sets out role of planning in relation to waste management. States that to date many development plans have not successfully contributed to waste management objectives and calls for improved links between development plans and area waste plans. Aims to achieve a better planned and more inclusive approach to providing sites for waste management.

The previous National Planning Framework identified additional waste management capacity requirements expected by 2013, and it is likely that this will be reviewed and updated to ensure that the second NPF remains and accurate and relevant. This in turn should provide a useful reference point for strategic and local level land use planning that seeks to contribute to waste management objectives.

Framework for Economic Development in Scotland (2004)

Sets out the overarching framework for economic development in Scotland. Aims "to raise the quality of life of the Scottish people through increasing the economic opportunities for all on a socially and environmentally sustainable basis."

Links with previous National Planning Framework are noted, and FEDS emphasises the importance of the planning system in making decisions quickly and transparently in support of business development. Likely to be a continuing role for the National Planning Framework in helping to deliver sustainable housing markets (thereby supporting the labour market), delivering and co-ordinating land use with transport infrastructure, providing land for development, and regeneration. Electronic infrastructure also continues to be a key priority, as well as more equitable and stronger regional development.

A Smart, Successful Scotland: Strategic Direction to the Enterprise Networks and an Enterprise Strategy for Scotland (2004)

Sets out role of Scottish Enterprise Network and partners in improving Scottish economic performance. Aims to increase productivity, entrepreneurship, learning and skills and digital connectivity. Notes need to attract and retain workers, reduce income and employment disparities between areas and ensure key digital infrastructure is in place.

The National Planning Framework could help to achieve this, indirectly by improving quality of life and retaining Scotland's skilled labour force, and more directly by guiding strategic economic investment to areas where need is greatest and assisting with enhancement of the digital network.

A Smart, Successful Highlands and Islands: An Enterprise Strategy for the Highlands and Islands of Scotland (2005)

Focuses on the economic development needs of the Highlands and Islands, including increasing economic capacity (as opposed to employment creation). States that this should be achieved by strengthening communities, developing skills, growing businesses and establishing global connections. Notes that the area's natural and cultural heritage are unique assets to be harnessed and emphasises importance of sustainable economic development. Outlines the needs of different parts of the area, prioritising action in fragile and regeneration areas.

As with the Scottish Enterprise Strategy, the National Planning Framework has a role to play in supporting this, particularly in terms of reflecting and responding to the varying spatial dimensions of economic need across the area.

SPP2 Economic Development (2002)

Clearly supports the role of planning in delivering FEDS. States that planners should respond positively to change and reflect the needs of the market. Sets out the importance of ensuring industrial and business land supply is kept up to date, with regular reviews of marketability. Provides an overview of existing national sites, and does not anticipate that substantial additional allocations will be required.

The National Planning Framework should play a role in safeguarding proven sites for this type of development, as well as responding to strategic and market needs by reflecting wider economic policies including FEDS. The emphasis on environmentally sustainable economic development should be taken forward within the provisions of the NPF.

Building a Better Scotland Infrastructure Investment Plan: Investing in the Future of Scotland, (2005)

Sets out the delivery plan for achieving significant investment in transport, education, health, water, waste management, sports, business, flood prevention and regeneration programmes in Scotland.

The 2004 National Planning Framework set out the spatial implications of predicted infrastructure improvements up to 2025. The next NPF should take this forward in light of ongoing and planned infrastructure investment.

Memorandum of Guidance on Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas, Historic Scotland (1998)

Sets out advice on the designation and protection of listed buildings, conservation areas, gardens and designed landscapes. Specifically defines the role of planning authorities, including in terms of development management and enforcement.

The National Planning Framework should reflect these commitments to protecting designated historic resources, both in terms of direct impacts on their fabric, and broader impacts on their setting, as required by the Memorandum.

Historic Scotland, Passed to the Future: Historic Scotland's Policy for the Sustainable Management of the Historic Environment, (2002)

Sets out the key principles for achieving a sustainable historic environment, including recognising value, good stewardship, assessing impact and working together. Notes that natural and human impacts on the historic environment should be taken into account. States that the precautionary principle should be applied where historic resources are unknown.

These aims should be used to guide the development of the National Planning Framework.

NPPG5 Archaeology and Planning (1998)

Sets planning policies and guidance relating to archaeological resources. Notes that both designated sites and unknown resources are of importance to the cultural heritage and identity of Scotland. Recommends that planning authorities play a key role in safeguarding such resources from inappropriate development.

The National Planning Framework should take these policy commitments into account as far as possible, particularly in terms of ensuring that valued archaeological resources are taken into account when making strategic locational decisions.

NPPG18 Planning and the Historic Environment (1999)

Sets out national planning policy relating to the historic environment, including listed building, conservation areas and historic gardens and designed landscapes. States that the planning system has a key role to play in protecting such resources from development, through recognising their value in development plans and making appropriate development management decisions.

The National Planning Framework should take these policy commitments into account as far as possible, particularly by ensuring that the historic environment is taken into account when making strategic locational decisions.

Council of Europe, European Landscape Convention 2000

States that landscapes across Europe make an important contribution to quality of life and cultural identity, but that they are being transformed as a result of a number of factors, including town planning, transport and infrastructure and the economy. Requires Member States to develop more comprehensive frameworks to protect and enhance landscapes.

The National Planning Framework should reflect the aims of the Convention, including by considering potential impacts of development proposals on designated and non designated landscapes, particularly in terms of potential loss of distinguishing features.

SNH Natural Heritage Futures (2002)

Provides baseline information for the assessment, and also draws attention to particularly important processes of change. Priorities for future landscape management include creating better settings for towns and cities, creating industrial landscapes that reflect local identify, careful siting and design of development along key rural transport routes, management of agricultural change, forestry restructuring to improve 'naturalness' and sensitive management of natural processes e.g. flood management using soft engineering.

These priorities, and others defined more locally, should be taken into account when preparing the National Planning Framework. In particular, there is a need to recognise the particular sensitivities of specific landscapes including those adjacent to settlements, in transitional areas and around key transport corridors.

NPPG14 Natural Heritage (1999)

Sets out planning policy relating to natural heritage, including landscape. Notes that Scotland has diverse, and valued landscapes that characterise national, regional and local cultural, aesthetic and historic identity. Outlines the various levels of protection that many landscapes are afforded, but also notes that often their character can be under pressure from processes of change. States that the planning system has a role to play in protecting landscapes from inappropriate or poorly designed development, and achieving enhancement close to settlements and in areas which have been degraded. Notes that some of the country's most sensitive and remote landscape may have little or no capacity to accept new development.

The National Planning Framework should take into account the need to protect, and where possible enhance, landscapes of international, national, regional and local value. The varying capacity of landscapes to accommodate different types of change should be borne in mind when making any strategic locational decisions within the National Planning Framework.

PAN60 Planning for Natural Heritage (2000)

Confirms the importance of planning for landscape protection and enhancement, including for nationally important landscapes (National Parks, national Scenic Areas, designed landscapes and wild land). States that development plans should reflect each of their distinctive landscapes and that high standards of design and use of appropriate materials should help to minimise intrusion from inappropriate development.

The National Planning Framework should contribute to these aims by ensuring that the character and value of Scotland's landscapes are taken into account in defining its policies and proposals.

SPP21 Green Belts (2006)

Updates national planning policy relating to green belts. States a continuing commitment to green belts as a tool for providing greater certainty and safeguarding against inappropriate development on the urban fringe. Aims to maximise the benefits of green belts through positive and co-ordinated planning. Potential release of green belt land should be considered when reviewing potential for long term settlement expansion.

These policy aims should be taken into account within the National Planning Framework, particularly in relation to potential strategic locational and infrastructure policies and proposals. Emphasis on maximising the benefits of green belts should also be supported as far as possible by the National Planning Framework.

European Spatial Development Perspective (1999)

Sets the strategic contect for achieving three goals: economic and social cohesions, conservation and management of natural resources and the cultural heritage and balanced competitiveness. Encourages cross national working, and sets out key principles for sustainable development, including a focus on networks of cities, improved urban-rural links, integrated transport and communication networks, and the wise management of natural and cultural heritage.

This forms a strategic framework within which the National Planning Framework should be set. Emphasises the importance of cities as engines for growth and encourages Scotland to look fourther afield when developing policies that aim to improve regional competitiveness.

European Strategy for Sustainable Development (renewed, 2006)

Builds on the preceding strategy, by identifying key priorities for an enlarged Europe to focus on up to 2010. This includes climate change and clean energy, sustainable transport, sustainable protection and consumption, health, better use of natural resources, social inclusion and fighting global poverty. Aims to achieve better policy integration in addressing these challenges, and to ensure that Europe looks beyond its boundaries in making informed decisions about sustainability.

Broad aims of the Strategy should be taken into account and key aspirations including cross sectoral and transboundary working to achieve sustainable development should influence the preparation and content of the National Planning Framework.

European Sixth Environmental Action Programme 2002-2012 (2002)

Sets out a strategy for the environmental component of sustainable development in Europe. States that climate change, nature and biodiversity, health and quality of life and natural resources and waste should be prioritised. Provides a framework for new national level environmental legislation, and encourage involvement and integration of environmental issues across wider policy sectors.

The National Planning Framework should also reflect these aspects of sustainability, including by helping to deliver on the thematic strategies that have been prepared under the programme. The SEA should help to define how this can be achieved.

Scottish Executive et al (2005) One future - different paths - The UK's shared framework for sustainable development

Sets out shared commitments by the devolved administrations to achieving sustainable development. Focuses on a 'new' definition of sustainable development where current populations can meet their needs without prejudicing the quality of life of future generations. Defines shared principles of: living within environmental limits; ensuring a strong, healthy and just society; achieving a sustainable economy; promoting good governance; and using sound science responsibly.

These principles should be reflected in the National Planning Framework, which should help to define in particular how a sustainable economy and society can be achieved within environmental limits.

Choosing Our Future - Scotland's Sustainable Development Strategy (2005)

Sits under the cross national shared framework for sustainable development to define Scottish priorities for sustainable development. Aims to mainstream sustainable development, measure progress more explicitly and strengthen accountability. Notes the need for urgent action in response to growing problems and pressures.

The National Planning Framework should reflect this commitment to 'mainstreaming' sustainable development as far as possible.

Scottish Executive Environment Group (2005) Indicators of Sustainable Development for Scotland, Progress Report

Measures progress towards a wide range sustainable development targets. Shows where good progress has been made, and where trends suggest that further remedial action is required to ensure stated objectives are met.

The National Planning Framework should aim to help meet these targets where possible and relevant. Key areas of current concern, where progress has fallen short of stated targets include travel distance and travel mode and social concern. Could also help to meet wider range of targets relating to environmental quality, waste, energy and economic prosperity, health and well being.

Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006

Introduces reforms of the Scottish Planning System. Defines the role of the National Planning Framework, as part of the hierarchy of development plans in Scotland. Also aims to strengthen community involvement, and to make development plans and development management more efficient.

The new status, and the requirements for its preparation process and content set out in the Act are forming the basis of the second National Planning Framework.

SPP1 The Planning System (2002)

Defines the overall role of the planning system in achieving sustainable development. Notes that planning should consider both short and long term consequences of development. Emphasises the need to progress sustainable economic development, to help achieve social justice and to maintain and improve environmental quality.

The National Planning Framework should provide strategic spatial guidance on how these aims can be achieved, taking into account the overall commitment of planning to sustainable development.

Rural Development Programme for Scotland 2007-2013. The Strategic Plan

Sets out priorities for allocating EU funding rural development over the coming years. Has three key themes of underpinning performance and quality in the primary sectors, enhancing rural landscapes and natural heritage and promoting a more diverse rural economy and thriving rural economies. Rural Development Plan also prioritises the amenity of villages, affordable housing and distribution and storage networks to allow access to local markets.

The National Planning Framework should aim to support rural development proposals within this plan by ensuring that land use decisions and policies contribute to these broader priorities and objectives. Key interactions might include environmental protection (landscape special qualities), promoting sustainable flooding management, developing stronger habitat networks and improving access to the countryside.

SPP15 Planning for Rural Development (2005)

Sets the land use planning framework for rural development in Scotland. Aims to positively promote sustainable development in the countryside, whilst safeguarding environmental resources. Notes the importance of natural heritage as an economic driver in rural areas.

The National Planning Framework should support these aims, partly by considering the scope for development and improving quality of life for communities in rural Scotland.

National Parks (Scotland) Act 2004

Sets out the four aims of National Parks in Scotland: conservation and enhancement of natural heritage, sustainable use of natural resources, promoting understanding and enjoyment and the sustainable economic and social development of the area's communities. Provides framework for designating areas, organisational and funding structures, and requirements for the preparation of National Park plans.

The National Planning Framework should recognise the role and value of existing and prospective National Parks in Scotland, and to support their aims as defined by the Act.

Forestry Commission Scotland The Scottish Forestry Strategy (2006) and Associated SEA Environmental Report

Sets out national commitments to forestry in Scotland, including the need to maximise the contribution of the sector to climate change (through renewable energy generation and carbon sequestration), to sustain biodiversity and promote landscape enhancement, and to provide resources for education and healthy recreation.

There may be scope for the National Planning Framework to help deliver these objectives and for the Forestry Commission Scotland in turn to support planning through the delivery of its national strategy.

SPP4 Planning for Minerals (2006)

Supports a positive approach to minerals planning, recognising the role of the industry in creating employment and providing resources for industry and development. Emphasises the importance of making appropriate locational decisions to avoid adverse environmental impacts. Sets out the role of planning authorities in helping to achieve this.

The National Planning Framework could help to define how a balance can be struck between industry aspirations and national commitments to environment quality (e.g. protection of designated landscapes and biodiversity sites, and prime quality agricultural land).

SPP16 Opencast Coal (2005)

Aims to balance the benefits of open case coal extraction (e.g. employment) with the need to avoid potentially significant impacts on the environment.

As with more general minerals policy (see above) the National Planning Framework should seek to promote the principles within this SPP.

NPPG13 Coastal Planning (1997)

States that the Scottish coast is of national significance. For planning purposes coasts can be defined as being developed, undeveloped or isolated, and each type of area requires a different approach to development planning and control. Provides guidelines for development, including the need to avoid siting developments on the coast unless this is a locational requirement, and targeting developments on the developed coast. Conservation of the natural and cultural heritage of the coast is encouraged.

The National Planning Framework should take these guidelines into account if considering potential for development on the coast. Furthermore, positive aims of conservation and enhancement should be progressed as far as possible, given the national significance and value of the coast.

Designing Places: A Policy Statement for Scotland, (2001)

Aims to promote high quality design within planning throughout Scotland. States that good design is an essential part of sustainable development, and aims to encourage collaboration and training amongst development professionals in order to deliver higher quality standards.

This commitment to high quality design should be reflected in the National Planning Framework. In particular, opportunities to ensure that national developments achieve high standards of design should be explored and promoted within the National Planning Framework.

SPP20 Role of Architecture and Design Scotland (2005)

Defines the role of Architecture and Design Scotland in relation to the planning system. Emphasises the importance of delivering high quality design in all types of development.

These design principles should be reflected in the aspirations of the National Planning Framework.