In a statement to the Scottish Parliament on 13 September 2007, the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and sustainable Growth, John Swinney MSP, set out the intention behind national developments and the criteria for their designation.
This Assessment Matrix is the Government's record of the assessment of suggested national developments against the criteria announced by the Cabinet Secretary. The candidate national developments included in the matrix are derived from consultation on the scope and content of the second National Planning Framework ( NPF2) in 2007 and responses to the Discussion Draft NPF2 in 2008.
'The projects that will be designated as national developments will be fundamental to the delivery of the spatial strategy that we will set out in the second national planning framework. They will help to unlock the potential of priority locations for sustainable economic growth and regeneration. They will be not free-standing projects, but planned strategic interventions as part of an overall strategy.'
'The Planning etc (Scotland) Act 2006 makes provision for the national planning framework to be used to designate certain projects as national developments. Major strategic transport, energy and environmental infrastructure projects may fall into that category of development. The essential test will be whether the development is of strategic importance to Scotland's long-term sustainable economic growth. Designation in the framework is the mechanism for establishing the need for such developments, so that any inquiry focuses on issues such as design and the mitigation of environmental impacts, not on matters of principle, which this Government, like the previous administration, believes are matters for political debate and decision.'
In addition to that 'essential test', the Cabinet Secretary announced that projects which may be identified as national developments are those which:
It is not necessary for a suggested national development to score a positive ranking under each of the six criteria in order to be designated. A positive contribution under one or more criteria may be sufficiently significant in terms of supporting the overall spatial strategy to outweigh some neutral or negative rankings.
The assessment is made at a strategic level. 52 of the suggested national developments have been subject to Strategic Environmental Assessment ( SEA), the findings of which were subject to consultation between September and October 2008 1. In order to ensure that the environmental assessment focused on what the Scottish Government considered to be realistic and 'reasonable' alternatives for the purposes of SEA, a coarse sifting process was undertaken.
The following pages set out the Government's assessment of the suggested national developments against the six criteria, with some accompanying commentary. All the developments which are proposed for designation as national developments have been subject to SEA.
The Government in making this Assessment Matrix available at this time to inform Parliamentary consideration of the Proposed NPF2.
National developments to be taken forward in the Proposed NPF |
National Development Criteria |
No. | Projects | Significant contribution to sustainable economic development | Strengthen global links | Improve internal connectivity | Significant contribution to climate change, renewable energy, waste management targets | Essential part of a national infrastructure investment programme (0 = not programmed) | More than regional importance | Overall Assessment | Is the project a proposed National development? | Commentary |
1 | Replacement Forth Crossing | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | + | + | Mostly + | Y | Key element in national road and rail infrastructure. Likely to be road only crossing with provision for bus priority, improving public transport provision between Edinburgh and Fife. Scottish Government committed to the scheme in advance of and through the STPR. Designation reflects that commitment. Environmental issues considered in the SEA and Habitat Regulations Assessment. |
2 | Improved Rail Connectivity in the West of Scotland | + | + | + | 0/+ | 0 | + | Very + | Y | Connection of Glasgow city centre stations to allow direct train journeys between the South and West and the North and East (potentially hundreds of stations could benefit from direct links). Potential to link with regeneration areas and airports, to improve access to 2014 Commonwealth Games Facilities, and to provide an alternative to car journeys. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. STPR commits to 'West of Scotland Strategic Rail Enhancements' (Central Glasgow rail capacity) and rail enhancements between Ayrshire, Inverclyde and Glasgow. |
3 | Edinburgh Airport Enhancement | + | + | + | - | 0/- | + | Very + | Y | Promotes external and internal connectivity. Good air links and good surface access to airports are vital if Scotland is to be a good place to do business and an attractive tourist destination. Need established in Air Transport White Paper and WEPF. Designation as a national development would, however, expedite the planning process. Environmental issues considered in the SEA and Habitat Regulations Assessment. STPR commits to a new rail station at Gogar and new track at Dalmeny to allow additional trains between Glasgow and Edinburgh. |
4 | Glasgow Airport Enhancement | + | + | + | _ | 0/+ | + | Very + | Y | Promotes external and internal connectivity. Good air links and good surface access to airports are vital if Scotland is to be a good place to do business and an attractive tourist destination. Need established in Air Transport White Paper and Structure Plan. Designation as a national development would expedite planning process. Environmental issues considered in the SEA and Habitat Regulations Assessment. STPR notes existing commitment to the Glasgow Airport Rail Link. |
5 | Aberdeen Airport Enhancement | + | + | + | - | 0 | + | very + | Y | Important for business and tourism. Aberdeen Airport is a gateway to the North East and provides the connectivity required by the energy economy. Improved public transport access and enhanced terminal facilities are required. 300 metre runway extension already approved. No significant additional land required for airport operations in the period to 2030. Aberdeen Crossrail could provide more regular train journeys to Dyce (Aberdeen to Inverness line would require enhancement and additional rolling stock). Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route would reduce congestion on A96, from which the airport is accessed. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. The STPR notes the commitment to the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route and commits to investment in the rail link between Aberdeen and Inverness. |
6 | Grangemouth Freight Hub and associated Road and Rail Links. | + | + | + | 0/+ | 0 | + | Mostly + | Y | Very important import/export gateway. Suffers from inefficient access arrangements land-side and port-side, with adverse impacts on the local community. Increasing capacity of container storage area requires new crane infrastructure. Enhanced rail access could help to cut lorry miles. As the improvements to access affect areas outwith the port, designation would help to facilitate delivery. Environmental issues considered in the SEA and Habitat Regulations Assessment. STPR commits to rail and road upgrades to improve access to Grangemouth. |
7 | Rosyth International Container Terminal | + | + | + | -/0/+ | 0 | + | Mostly + | Y | Improves external connectivity and offers substantial economic opportunities. Provides additional capacity to accommodate projected growth in container traffic. Potential to move freight from road to sea. Developer committed. Designation would facilitate delivery. UK ports policy promotes more modern facilities. Environmental issues considered in the SEA and Habitat Regulations Assessment. STPR commits to improving public transport and rail access to the port at Rosyth. |
8 | Port Developments on Loch Ryan | + | + | + | -/0/+ | 0 | + | Mostly + | Y | Loch Ryan ports are an important gateway to Scotland and contribute to connectivity between Ireland and Europe. A75 forms part of the Trans European Road Network and part of EUESSN project (Ireland to Benelux). A77 to the North and A75 to the East (M74, Lockerbie) require upgrades. Potential for some emissions and resource savings, though unlikely to make a significant contribution to achieving climate change targets. Creation of a new port and access improvements have planning implications. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. The STPR commits to improvements to the A75 and A77 to provide better access to Loch Ryan ports. |
9 | Scapa Flow Container Transhipment Facility | -/+ | + | 0/+ | -/0 | 0 | + | Mostly + | Y | Would improve global connectivity helping Scotland to become a significant global player in container cargo handling. Offers substantial benefits for Orkney's economy. May offer opportunities for new short shipping routes to mainland ports. Deep water opportunity recognised in NPF1. Designation will expedite the planning process. Environmental issues considered in the SEA and Habitats Regulations Assessment. |
10 | New Non-Nuclear Baseload Capacity at Other Existing Power Station Sites | + | 0 | 0 | +/0 | 0 | + | Mainly neutral / modestly + | Y | Replacement baseload generating capacity is needed to ensure continuity of electricity supply in the medium term, given the anticipated closures of existing power plants in the period to 2030. Establishing the locational principles in the National Planning Framework will facilitate delivery. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
11 | Grid reinforcements to Support Renewable Energy Development | + | 0/+ | + | + | + | + | Very + | Y | Reinforcement of electricity transmission system necessary to realise the potential of Scotland's renewable energy resources and ensure long-term security of supply. The development has an important role in helping to reduce emissions and supporting the Scottish Government's aspirations for renewable energy. Environmental issues considered in the SEA and Habitats Regulations Assessment. |
12 | Metropolitan Glasgow Strategic Drainage Scheme | + | 0 | 0 | 0/+ | + | + | Mostly + | Y | Removes drainage capacity constraints and reduces flood risk in the Glasgow Conurbation. Critical to unlocking the potential of the Clyde Gateway and delivering the Commonwealth Games facilities. Some elements already being developed. Environmental issues considered in the SEA. |
13 | Commonwealth Games Facilities & Infrastructure | + | + | 0/+ | +/0 | + | + | Very + | Y | Raises Scotland's profile. Major attraction for international visitors. Contributes to the regeneration of the Clyde Gateway. Complementary to GARL, Fastlink, strategic rail enhancements and Metropolitan Glasgow Strategic Drainage Scheme. Designation would expedite the planning process and help to secure the long-term legacy by maintaining a high planning profile after the Games. Environmental issues considered in the SEA. |
14 | Glasgow Prestwick Airport Enhancement | + | + | + | - | 0 | + | Very + | Y | Important to Scotland's external connectivity and the economy of Ayrshire and the South West. Need to improve road and rail access to support freight and passenger operations. Linked to strategic rail enhancements. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. STPR commits to enhancements to the rail line serving Ayrshire. |
15 | Hunterston Clean Coal Power Station | + | 0 | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | + | Mainly Neutral / Modestly + | Y | Replacement baseload generating capacity is needed to ensure continuity of electricity supply in the medium term, given the anticipated closure of existing power plants in the period to 2030. Establishing the locational principles in the National Planning Framework will facilitate delivery. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
16 | International Container Terminal, Hunterston | + | + | + | -/0 | 0 | + | Mostly + | Y | Creation of a major new freight gateway would significantly improve Scotland's global connectivity, offering substantial economic opportunities. Deep water opportunity already identified in NPF1. Designation would expedite planning process. Structure Plan notes the need for A78 improvements to serve the port. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
Candidate national developments not being taken forward in Proposed NPF |
Transport - Rail |
17 | Edinburgh - Glasgow Rail Electrification | + | 0/+ | + | 0/+ | + | + | Very + | N | Strengthens sustainable connections between our two main cities, facilitating faster rail journeys. Improves Scotland's appeal as a location for investment. Questionable whether designation would facilitate delivery. Already part of Transport Scotland's programme and some elements are already underway. Limited planning input. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. STPR confirms commitment to this project. |
18 | East Coast Rail Improvements (Aberdeen - Edinburgh) | + | 0/+ | + | 0/+ | ? | + | Very + | N | Reduce rail journey times in the East Coast Corridor, providing a more attractive sustainable travel option and facilitating networking between East Coast knowledge centres. One of the STPR commitments. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
19 | East Coast Main Line Upgrade | + | 0/+ | + | 0/+ | 0 | + | Mostly + | N | Similar to Aberdeen - Edinburgh, but with additional improvements through Fife and connections to Glasgow, Aberdeen and Inverness. Those interventions are dealt with separately in the STPR. As a stand-alone package this is insufficiently specified for designation. |
20 | Inverness - Central Belt Rail Improvements (Highland Main Line) | + | 0 | + | 0/+ | ? | + | Very + | N | Reduces rail journey times between Inverness and the Central Belt, providing a more attractive sustainable travel option. Supports Scotland's sustainable economic growth. STPR commits to improvements on the Highland mainline. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. Given limited planning input and existing STPR commitment, designation is not required to secure delivery. |
21 | Rail improvements between Edinburgh and Glasgow (Edinburgh Glasgow Rail Improvement Programme, EGIP, in Supplementary SEA) | + | 0/+ | + | 0/+ | + | + | Very + | N | High speed options. Reduced journey time is the main aim, to allow Edinburgh and Glasgow to work as a single economic space and to make best use of potential connections to a UK High Speed Rail system. The EGIP programme is already committed and noted in the STPR. Environmental issues are considered in the SEA. Planning input limited. Designation not required to secure delivery. |
22 | Borders Rail Line | + | 0 | + | + | + | 0/+ | Very + | N | Reconnects the Borders to the rail network, providing a more sustainable commuting option. Bill Passed. Initial phase (to Tweedbank) will be implemented by 2013 (announced August 2008). Considered within the supplementary SEA. Long-term potential to restore links to Carlisle. Given existing commitments and limited planning input, designation at this stage would not assist delivery. STPR notes existing commitment to the Borders rail line. |
23 | Airdrie - Bathgate Rail Line | + | 0 | + | 0/+ | + | + | Very + | N | Improves internal connectivity, providing new rail commuting options from centres between Edinburgh and Glasgow. Implementation already underway. Designation is not therefore needed to facilitate delivery. |
24 | Glasgow Airport Rail Link | + | 0/+ | + | 0 | + | 0/+ | Mostly + | N | Improves internal connectivity and supports global links. Offers an additional sustainable transport option for journeys between Glasgow Airport and the city centre. Bill passed and need already established, so limited planning input required. However, a significant element of Glasgow Airport Enhancement and included in that designation. Considered as part of the Glasgow Airport Enhancement in the Supplementary SEA. STPR notes commitment to the Glasgow Airport Rail Link. |
25 | Improved Rail Links to Fife | 0/+ | 0 | + | ? | 0 | + | Modestly + | N | Insufficiently specified for designation. The STPR addresses a variety of interventions to improve rail connectivity to Fife, including an Inverkeithing to Halbeath link and Light Rapid Transit between Edinburgh and Fife. |
26 | Stirling - Alloa - Kincardine rail link | 0/+ | 0/+ | + | 0/+ | + | + | Very + | N | Improves internal connectivity for freight and passengers. Improves gateway access and facilitates strategic fuel movements. Project complete, so inappropriate to designate. |
27 | Electrification of the Scottish Rail Network | + | 0/+ | + | 0/+ | + | + | Very + | N | STPR commits to developing the package of electrification for the strategic rail network. Planning input limited. Designation would not facilitate delivery. Environmental issues considered in SEA. |
28 | Waverley Station Enhancements - Phase 2 | + | 0/+ | + | 0/+ | + | + | Very + | N | Provide additional capacity to accommodate the expansion of rail services. Contribute positively to sustainable economic development. First phase already complete. Other enhancements to access arrangements already in process. Limited planning input. As the need and principle are already established, designation is not required to facilitate delivery. Not specifically considered in the SEA, but impacts similar to those at Haymarket station. Further enhancements may be needed post 2030. |
29 | Aberdeen Crossrail | + | + | + | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | Moderately + | N | Improves rail connectivity through Aberdeen, allowing improved commuter services, enhanced access to Aberdeen Airport and reduced journey times to other destinations. Of regional rather than national importance. Environmental issues considered in the supplementary SEA. |
30 | Trams for Edinburgh | + | + | 0/+ | 0/+ | + | + | Moderately + | N | The STPR notes the existing commitment to delivering the tram system in Edinburgh. Work already underway. Designation would not help facilitate delivery. Of more regional than national importance. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
31 | Extend Waverley Line to Carlisle | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | + | Slightly + | N | Would re-establish rail link between Edinburgh and Carlisle and offer improved connectivity for the Borders. Environmental issues considered within the Supplementary SEA. The STPR notes commitment to the Borders rail link, but not an extension to Carlisle. Possible long-term aspiration. |
32 | Inverness - Wick improvements and new Dornoch Firth Crossing | 0/+ | 0/+ | + | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | Modestly + | N | Increased rail capacity between Inverness and Dingwall. Double tracking Clachnaharry - Clunes, construction of Goergemas chord, construction of Dornoch Firth rail crossing and associated link route, double tracking of Perth - Inverness, electrification of the line and other enhancements to reduce journey times. Potential economic benefits for Caithness and the north, supporting port, energy, leisure and forestry activities. Could assist in decommissioning of Dounreay. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
33 | Waverley/ Haymarket Station upgrading | ? | ? | + | ?/+ | 0 | + | Unknown, modestly + | N | Future Waverley enhancement phases not programmed yet. Supplementary SEA focuses on Haymarket, but the issues apply also to Waverley. STPR commits to improving the interchange at Haymarket. Significant in terms of promoting integrated transport, but national significance questionable. |
34 | Edinburgh South Suburban Railway reopening | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | fairly neutral | N | Re-introduction of passenger services on existing track. Would help to alleviate city road congestion. Could benefit Edinburgh residents and business. Of regional rather than national significance. Not considered in Supplementary SEA. |
35 | Inverness - Aberdeen Line | ? | ? | + | ? | 0 | 0 | Fairly neutral or unknown | N | Double tracking upgrade would help to make the rail journey a more attractive option. Unclear whether interventions in addition to double tracking would be needed. Important for the North East and Highlands. Little planning input and designation not required to secure delivery. STPR commits to reducing journey time and increasing service frequency between Inverness and Aberdeen. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
36 | Highland Line upgrade | ? | ? | + | ? | 0 | + | Mostly unknown | N | See Inverness - Central Belt Rail Improvements (20). Improvements on the Highland main line are considered in the Supplementary SEA. STPR commits to improvements on the Highland main line. |
37 | Glasgow - Ayr Line | 0/+ | 0/+ | + | 0 | 0 | + | Modestly + | N | Increased rail capacity and faster trains. Benefits for Ayrshire and Prestwick Airport passengers. Component of West of Scotland strategic rail enhancements. STPR commits to rail enhancements between Ayrshire and Glasgow. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
38 | New Upper Forth Rail Circle | ? | ? | + | ? | ? | + | Mostly unknown | N | Insufficiently specified. |
39 | Fife Service improvements | 0/+ | 0 | + | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | Mostly neutral | N | New line from Ferry Toll to Halbeath on M90 alignment, electrification of rail lines through Fife. Would help to reduce journey times north-south journey times. Limited planning input and of regional rather than national significance. Not considered in the Supplementary SEA. STPR commits to investments which will improve rail services to Fife. |
40 | Edinburgh Service improvements | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | 0/+ | 0 | + | neutral to modestly + | N | Primarily focused on line between Portobello and Haymarket West. Potential benefits not yet tested. Not considered in Supplementary SEA. |
41 | Reopening branch lines (eg. Leven-Thornton; Falkirk-Grangemouth) | ? | ? | 0/+ | 0/+ | 0 | ? | Mostly Neutral or unknown | N | Insufficiently specified. Any benefits likely to be local and regional rather than national. No commitment to re-opening in the STPR. Not considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
42 | Potential Glasgow Tram system | + | 0 | + | 0 | 0 | + | Moderately + | N | Upgrade urban transit to provide new public transport capacity in areas which heavy rail doesn't reach. Could release capacity for more heavy rail services at Glasgow termini. Insufficiently specified. Not considered in Supplementary SEA. STPR commits to strategic rail enhancements in the West of Scotland, and does not rule out light rail options. |
43 | National Crossrail | + | + | + | 0/+ | 0 | + | Moderately + | N | Optimising connectivity in the Edinburgh and Glasgow city regions, enabling the area to function as an internationally competitive integrated region. Insufficiently specified for designation. However, Edinburgh - Glasgow electrification, West of Scotland Strategic Rail Enhancements, Airdrie - Bathgate, Borders Rail Line and Waverley, Haymarket and Fife improvements address many of the issues. STPR makes a variety of commitments to improving rail connectivity throughout Scotland, including the Edinburgh to Glasgow rail improvement programme and enhancements in the West of Scotland. |
44 | Improved rail connections to all ports | 0/+ | + | + | 0/+ | 0 | + | Moderately + | N | Enhanced freight capability and shift to more sustainable transport modes. Potentially Dundee, Montrose, Perth, Stranraer and Cairnryan, but insufficiently specified. Aspects considered in specific port-related national developments and, therefore, in the supplementary SEA. STPR includes commitments for specific ports. |
45 | Inverness Airport rail link | ? | + | 0/+ | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | Modestly + | N | Of regional rather than national importance. STPR commits to improvements on the Inverness - Aberdeen rail line and station at Dalcross. Not considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
46 | Edinburgh - Inverness Rail Improvements | ? | 0 | + | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | Mainly neutral | N | Upgrade to double track and improvements to signalling. See Inverness - Central Belt Rail Improvements (20). Improvements on the Highland main line are considered in the Supplementary SEA. STPR commits to improvements on the Highland main line. |
47 | Dundee-Edinburgh/ Glasgow Rail Improvements | ? | 0 | + | 0 | 0 | + | Modestly + | N | Potential benefits for East Coast Corridor journey times. Insufficiently specified. Not considered in the supplementary SEA. STPR includes commitment to improvements on East Coast main line. |
48 | Improvement of A96 and rail link between Aberdeen and Inverness. | 0 | 0 | + | 0 | 0 | 0 | Mostly neutral | N | A96 (Aberdeen - Inverness) assessed separately. Rail element insufficiently specified. Supplementary SEA considers the environmental effects of rail enhancements between Inverness and Aberdeen. STPR commits to improvements to the rail line and A96. |
49 | Double tracking the Perth - Inverness rail line. | 0/+ | 0/+ | + | + | 0 | 0/+ | Moderately + | N | See Inverness - Central Belt Rail Improvements (20). Improvements on the Highland main line are considered in the Supplementary SEA. STPR commits to improvements on the Highland main line. |
50 | Further strengthening of the rail network | ? | 0 | 0/+ | 0/+ | 0/+ | + | Modestly + | N | Insufficiently specified. Not considered in the supplementary SEA. Some improvements already programmed. STPR commits to improvements to the rail network. |
51 | High-speed Rail Link to England (London) | + | + | + | -/+ | 0 | + | Very + | N | High speed rail link serving Edinburgh and Glasgow, main English cities and London, connecting through Euro-tunnel to the Continent. Strong commitment from Scottish Government but requires support from UK Government to take forward. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
52 | Cross-Glasgow Rail Connections | + | + | + | + | 0 | + | Very + | N | Cross-Glasgow rail connectivity issues addressed by West of Scotland Strategic Rail Enhancements. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
Transport - Road |
53 | A96 Corridor (Inverness - Nairn) | + | 0 | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | + | Moderately + | N | Facilitates development in a key growth area. Suggested elements are: A96 improvement; Inverness Trunk link road; Nairn bypass; new water supply; waste water treatment works; sustainable urban drainage schemes; structural elements of the green framework. Corridor identified as an area for co-ordinated action. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. STPR commits to improvements to the A96. |
54 | A96 Trunk Road upgrade | -/+ | 0 | + | -/0 | + | + | Mostly + | N | Upgrades to the trunk road to remove pinch points. Potentially significant in improving journey time reliability and realising growth potential. Limited planning input. See previous assessment. Environmental issues considered in the supplementary SEA. STPR commits to improving A96 trunk road and a link between A9 and A96. |
55 | A75 Euroroute (Stranraer - Dumfries - Gretna) | -/+ | + | + | -/0 | + | + | Very + | N | Would improve Scotland's external connectivity and help to strengthen the EU's Trans-European Route Network. Economic benefits for the South West. Route already established and deficiencies not specified. Route Action Improvement Programme sought. Addressed in context of Port developments on Loch Ryan. Environmental issues considered in Supplementary SEA. STPR commits to improvements along the route. |
56 | A75/A77; | 0/+ | + | + | - | Y | 0/+ | Modestly + | N | Some improvements already programmed by Transport Scotland. Route Action Programmes sought. As road projects alone the proposals would benefit Dumfries and Galloway without truly national significance. Addressed in context of Port developments on Loch Ryan. Environmental issues considered in Supplementary SEA. STPR commits to improvements to A77. |
57 | Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route | + | 0/+ | + | - | + | 0/+ | Moderately + | N | Improvement to connectivity in the North East could provide significant economic benefits. Scottish Ministers determined the need for the project before the planning Inquiry. Designation not required to facilitate delivery. Already in Transport Scotland's programme. |
58 | A9 Dualling (particularly Perth - Inverness) | -/+ | 0 | + | -/0 | + | + | Moderately + | N | Could reduce congestion, improve journey time reliability and improve connectivity for the Highlands. The route is a key artery for trade, business and tourism. Designation not required to secure delivery. Some works are already programmed by Transport Scotland. STPR commits to upgrade between Dunblane and Inverness. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
59 | Dundee Western Bypass | 0 | 0 | + | - | 0 | 0/+ | Mostly neutral | N | Could contribute to improved connectivity on the East Coast and support the economy of Dundee. Insufficiently specified for designation. STPR does not commit to a Western Bypass. |
60 | Dundee North Bypass | -/+ | 0 | + | -/0 | 0 | + | Fairly neutral | N | Would strengthen connectivity in the East Coast Corridor and help to reduce congestion in Dundee city centre. Designation not required to facilitate delivery. STPR commits to a Northern Relief Road for Dundee. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
61 | Edinburgh City Bypass (A720) - Improvements and Grade Separation of Sheriffhall Junction | -/+ | 0 | + | -/0 | 0 | 0/+ | Fairly neutral | N | Offers benefits for Edinburgh commuters and through traffic. Sherriffhall is a key interchange. While it is important for Midlothian traffic, it is questionable whether it is of national strategic importance. Transport Scotland has already made some improvements. Not considered in the supplementary SEA. STPR commits to further improvements on the A720. |
62 | Road Tunnels to Islands | ? | 0 | + | -/0 | 0 | 0 | Fairly neutral | N | Insufficiently specified. Long-term aspiration. Possible integration with energy inter-connectors? Not considered in the Supplementary SEA. No commitment in STPR. |
63 | Western Isles and Orkney Fixed Links | ? | 0 | + | - | 0 | 0/+ | Mixed | N | Insufficiently specified. Long-term aspiration. Possible integration with energy inter-connectors? Not considered in Supplementary SEA. No commitment in STPR. |
64 | Tay Crossing | -/0/+ | 0 | + | -/0 | 0 | 0 | Fairly neutral | N | Could strengthen connectivity in the East Coast Corridor. Insufficiently specified. Need not established. Not considered in the Supplementary SEA. No commitment in STPR. |
65 | New Tay Bridge at Perth | ? | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | ? | Mostly Neutral or unknown | N | Could improve connectivity and facilitate economic growth. Insufficiently specified. Not considered in the Supplementary SEA. No commitment in STPR. |
66 | A82 | 0/+ | 0/+ | + | - | + | + | Moderately + | N | Improvements between Loch Lomond and Fort William. Some sections require widening. Forms part of the Trans European Transport Network. Significant for the economy, freight, tourism and access to Glasgow Airport. Would improve journey times, capacity and safety. Some improvements already programmed by Transport Scotland. Designation not required to secure delivery. STPR commits to road improvements on the A82. Environmental effects of targeted improvements between Glasgow and Fort William are considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
67 | A90 [Aberdeen and Dundee] | ? | 0 | 0/+ | - | + | + | Mostly neutral | N | Improvements to Haudagain Roundabout and dualling from Balmedie to Tipperty. Would improve journey times through Dundee. Safety improvements at non-grade separated junctions north of Dundee. Additional capacity at River Don crossing to support Aberdeen to Peterhead corridor. Some improvements already programmed by Transport Scotland. Not of national significance on its own and designation not required to secure delivery. STPR commits to route management. The Supplementary SEA considers the A90 generally between Aberdeen and Dundee. |
68 | Glasgow Southern Orbital [M77 - M74 Link] | ? | ? | + | - | 0 | 0/+ | Mostly Neutral or unknown | N | Suggested route is from Erskine Bridge via M77 to M74 south of Hamilton. Would deal mainly with local traffic. No commitment in STPR. |
69 | Edinburgh Southern Bypass - M74 Link [as a new toll road] | ? | ? | + | - | 0 | 0/+ | Mostly Neutral or unknown | N | Insufficiently specified. Any benefits likely to be mainly for the South of Scotland and Edinburgh. Not considered in the Supplementary SEA. No commitment in STPR. |
70 | A702 Improvements | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | - | 0/+ | + | Mixed | N | See Edinburgh-M74 Link Road (69). A significantly enhanced trunk road approach to Edinburgh, either by enhancing the existing road or constructing a new one. As some improvements are already programmed by Transport Scotland, designation is not required to secure delivery. Not considered in the Supplementary SEA. STPR commits to route management. |
71 | M8: Upgrades to Junctions 26 - 29 | ? | 0/+ | + | - | 0 | 0/+ | Mixed | N | Junction 28 of the M8 serves Glasgow Airport. Junctions 26, 27 and 29 have regional significance. Improvements would support development in Renfrewshire and to the South and West. STPR commits to the instillation of intelligent transport systems in and around Glasgow but not to upgrading the road between these junctions. Not considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
72 | Spur to Edinburgh Airport | ? | 0/+ | 0/+ | - | 0 | + | Mixed | N | Transport interventions for Edinburgh Airport will be dealt with in the development plan, as per West Edinburgh Planning Framework. No commitment in the STPR. |
73 | M90 / Rosyth - Kincardine Bridge Link | ? | 0 | 0/+ | - | 0 | 0/+ | Largely neutral | N | Insufficiently specified. Appears to refer to new/improved link to the A985 from the M90. Subject to a Route Action Plan. STPR commits to intelligent transport systems on the M90. |
74 | A7 | ? | 0 | ? | - | 0 | 0/+ | Neutral or unknown | N | Route Action Programme sought. Some consideration of environmental issues in the Supplementary SEA. STPR commits to route management. |
75 | A83 | ? | 0 | 0/+ | - | 0 | 0/+ | Mostly neutral | N | Insufficiently specified. STPR commits to route management. |
76 | A72 | ? | 0 | 0/+ | - | 0 | 0 | Mostly neutral | N | Route Action Improvement Programme sought. Insufficiently specified. No commitment in the STPR. |
77 | A87 | ? | 0 | 0/+ | - | 0 | 0/+ | Mostly neutral | N | Strategic West Coast corridor, but improvements insufficiently specified. STPR commits to road safety improvements. |
78 | A95 improvements | ? | 0 | 0/+ | - | + | 0 | Mixed | N | Insufficiently specified. Transport Scotland has works programmed. |
79 | A801 | 0/+ | + | 0/+ | - | 0 | + | Modestly + | N | Addressed in the context of the Grangemouth Freight Hub ( ND4). |
80 | Dumbarton - Port Glasgow Tunnel | ? | 0 | 0/+ | - | 0 | 0/+ | Mixed | N | Evidence of national need not presented. No commitment in the STPR. |
81 | Improved road links to ports | ? | 0/+ | 0/+ | - | 0 | + | Mixed | N | Insufficiently specified. No generic commitments in the STPR. |
82 | M8 upgrade to 3 lanes | 0/+ | 0/+ | 0/+ | - | + | + | Modestly + | N | Already in Transport Scotland's delivery programme. |
83 | A1 Improvements / Dualling to Newcastle | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | - | 0 | + | Mixed | N | Potential benefits for the East Coast Corridor. Route Action programme sought. STPR commits to route management, but not dualling. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
84 | A68 Improvements | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | - | 0 | + | Mixed | N | Route Action improvement programme sought. STPR committed to route management. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
85 | M74 Raith Junction improvements | 0/+ | 0 | + | 0 | 0 | 0 | Mostly neutral | N | Already in Transport Scotland's delivery programme. |
86 | M74 extension | + | 0 | + | - | + | + | Mixed but quite + | N | Already in Transport Scotland's delivery programme. |
87 | Upgrade A8 to Motorway standard | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | - | 0 | 0/+ | Mixed / slightly + | N | Already in Transport Scotland's delivery programme. |
88 | Upgrade A80 to motorway standard east of Glasgow | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | - | 0 | 0 | Mixed | N | Already in Transport Scotland's delivery programme. |
89 | Second Kincardine road bridge | 0/+ | 0 | + | - | + | 0/+ | Mixed / moderately + | N | Construction complete. |
90 | "Interaction" between Glasgow and Edinburgh and a 3-lane motorway between the cities. | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | - | + | + | Mixed | N | M8 already in Transport Scotland's delivery programme. Importance of relationship between Edinburgh and Glasgow addressed in NPF text. Other 'interactions' too broad to assess meaningfully in the Supplementary SEA. STPR commits to intelligent transport measures around Edinburgh and Glasgow. |
91 | Tunnel from Cowal to Inverclyde | ? | 0 | + | - | 0 | 0/+ | Mixed | N | Evidence of national need not presented. No commitment in the STPR. |
Transport - Sustainable |
92 | Long-Distance Walking and Cycle Routes | 0/+ | 0/+ | + | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | Modestly + | N | Designation not required to secure implementation. Addressed in NPF text. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
93 | National Sustainable Transport Investment Programme | ? | ? | + | + | 0 | + | Mixed | N | An investment programme, not a development. |
94 | Development of sustainable active travel (walking and cycling) in settlements | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | 0/+ | 0 | + | Modestly + | N | Planning policy already promotes active travel. Designation not required to secure implementation. |
95 | Walking, cycling and rail projects | ? | 0 | 0/+ | 0/+ | 0/+ | + | Modestly + | N | Insufficiently specified. Strategic rail improvements already programmed by Transport Scotland or commitments in the STPR. Walking and cycle routes are the responsibility of local authorities. Supplementary SEA considers the environmental effects of rail projects and long distance trails separately. |
Transport - Water |
96 | Upper Forth Navigation / increased waterway traffic | 0/+ | ? | + | 0/- | 0 | + | Mixed | N | Insufficiently specified. Navigation cannot proceed beyond Kincardine Bridge. |
97 | Port of Dundee | 0/+ | 0/+ | 0 | -/0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | Modestly + | N | Potential to serve the renewable energy market. Land already allocated for this purpose. Road links require upgrading. Tri-modal rail-head sought. Insufficient information to establish national importance. Addressed in NPF text. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. No commitments in the STPR. |
98 | Peterhead Harbour - Deepwater port | 0/+ | ? | ? | ? | 0 | 0/+ | Mostly ? or 0 | N | Improvements to the deep water port to support oil and gas infrastructure decommissioning. Potential terminal for liquefied natural gas. Planning issues not specified. Addressed in NPF text. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. No commitment in the STPR. |
99 | Improvements to transport infrastructure associated with Peterhead. | ? | + | + | ? | 0 | 0 | Mixed | N | Insufficiently specified. No commitments in the STPR. |
100 | Sullom Voe Oil Transfer Facility | 0/+ | ? | ? | ? | 0 | + | Mostly ? | N | Ship to Ship and Ship to Shore oil transfer facility. Essentially an enhancement of the existing facility. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
101 | Inverness Harbour | 0/+ | + | ? | ? | 0 | + | Mixed | N | Insufficiently specified. Inverness Local Plan allocates land for harbour expansion. |
102 | A national development designation covering all of Scotland's ports | ? | 0/+ | ? | -/0 | 0 | 0/+ | Mixed | N | Insufficiently specified. Not all port developments are of national importance. |
103 | Ballycastle - Campbeltown Ferry | 0/+ | + | 0 | -/0 | 0 | + | Mixed | N | A service, not a development. Addressed in NPF text. |
104 | Loch Ryan Ports (Stranraer and Cairnryan) | + | + | + | -/0/+ | 0 | + | Mostly + | N | See Port Developments on Loch Ryan ( ND6). |
105 | Container Freight and Distribution | + | + | + | -/0/+ | 0 | + | Mostly + | N | See national developments 4, 5 & 6 for individual ports. Packaging together is an alternative presentational option. However there are drawbacks to this approach, as each port has its own distinctive requirements. The individual elements are assessed separately in the Supplementary SEA. |
Transport - Other |
106 | Ferry termini rail links | + | + | + | 0/+ | 0 | + | Generally + | N | Insufficiently specified. |
107 | Aberdeen inter-modal freight facilities | ? | ? | ? | ? | 0 | ? | Mostly unknown | N | Insufficiently specified. STPR interventions seek to make rail a more attractive for freight movements to and from the North-East. |
108 | Network of Freight Distribution Centres | ? | ? | ? | ? | 0 | + | Mostly ? | N | Insufficiently specified. |
109 | National Public Transport Investment Programme | ? | ? | ? | ? | 0 | ? | Mostly unknown | N | An investment programme, not a development. |
110 | National Bus Route Development Fund | ? | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | + | Mostly neutral | N | Funding mechanism. No consents required. |
111 | Enhancing Public Transport Infrastructure | 0/+ | 0/+ | + | 0/+ | 0/+ | + | Modestly + | N | Insufficiently specified. STPR includes commitments to strategic improvements in rail infrastructure and park-and-ride facilities. |
112 | Highland Connectivity | ? | ? | + | ? | ? | 0/+ | Mainly unknown | N | Insufficiently specified. STPR commits to a range of strategic rail and road improvements to improve Highland connectivity. |
113 | Edinburgh Orbital Bus Services | ? | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | Mostly neutral | N | Might enhance trunk road performance, but no consents required. No commitments in the STPR. |
114 | Road and rail connections to the Central Belt | 0 | 0 | 0/+ | ? | 0 | + | Modestly + | N | Insufficiently specified. STPR commits to a variety of strategic road and rail improvements between the Central Belt and other parts of Scotland. |
115 | All transport infrastructure | ? | 0 | + | - | 0/+ | + | Mixed | N | Insufficiently specified. Not all transport infrastructure is of national importance. STPR commits to improvements to strategic transport infrastructure across Scotland. |
Transport - Air |
116 | Inverness Airport | + | + | + | - | 0 | + | Very + | N | Important to external and internal connectivity of the Highlands. Local Plan already safeguards land for development. Proposed road link to A96 included in Structure Plan. STPR identifies road and rail access improvements. |
117 | Dundee Airport | + | + | ? | - | 0 | ? | Mixed | N | Important to external connectivity of Dundee city region. No Airport Masterplan. Insufficiently specified. Potential planning issues unknown. No commitment in the STPR. |
Energy |
118 | Sub-Sea Electricity Transmission Grid | + | + | + | + | 0 | + | Very + | N | Offers a strategic solution to the challenge of harnessing Scotland's renewable energy resources and transmitting electricity to continental markets. The nature and scale of the project requires further development. An issue for marine spatial planning. Potentially subject to S.36 consents regime. Reliant on upgrades to land-based transmission system. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
119 | Electricity Transmission System Upgrades: Scottish Mainland, including cross-Border interconnectors | + | 0/+ | + | + | + | + | Very + | N | Help realise the potential of Scotland's renewable energy resources and maintain long-term security of electricity supply. Included in Electricity Grid Reinforcements. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
120 | Electricity Transmission System Upgrades: Island interconnectors | + | 0 | + | + | ? | 0/+ | Mostly + | N | Help realise the potential of the renewable energy resources of the Islands and maintain long-term security of electricity supply. Included in Electricity Grid Reinforcements. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
121 | Electricity Transmission System Upgrade: Beauly - Denny | + | 0 | + | + | ? | + | Mostly + | N | Could help realise the potential of renewable energy resources in the North and West and maintain long-term security of electricity supply. If public inquiry establishes need, designation will not be required to facilitate delivery. |
122 | Electricity Transmission System: East Coast Upgrade | + | 0 | + | + | + | 0/+ | Very + | N | Helps realise potential of renewable energy resources on the East Coast and maintain long-term security of electricity supply. Included in Electricity Grid Reinforcements. Environmental issues considered in the SEA. |
123 | Electricity Transmission System Upgrade: South West Scotland | + | 0 | + | + | + | 0/+ | Very + | N | Helps realise potential of renewable energy resources in the South West and maintain long-term security of electricity supply. Already the subject of pre-application consultations. Included in Electricity Grid Reinforcements. Environmental issues considered in the SEA. |
124 | Western Isles Energy Portal, Stornoway West Harbour | + | 0 | + | + | 0 | 0/+ | Mostly + | N | Stornoway West harbour, including Arnish fabrication facility. Existing provision for deep water berthing and wind turbine tower construction. Potential for sub-sea electricity cable and re-location of oil, gas storage/import/export facilities, creating economic opportunities in Stornoway and the wider area. Principle already established in the development plan. Environmental issues considered in the SEA. |
125 | Westfield Biomass Plant | + | 0 | 0 | + | 0 | + | Moderately + | N | Contributes to sustainable economic development and the realisation of climate change, renewable energy and waste management targets. Existing waste management facility operational since 2000, so designation not required to facilitate implementation. Structure plan policy W1 identifies Westfield as a preferred location for waste management facilities as part of a strategic network in Fife. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
126 | European Green Energy Centre | + | + | 0 | + | 0 | + | Mostly + | N | Potential to be an exemplar project contributing to the achievement of climate change and renewable energy targets. Has more than regional significance and would improve intellectual links. EU decision made - centre to be located in Loughborough. |
127 | On-shore renewable energy developments | + | 0 | 0 | + | 0 | + | Moderately + | N | Insufficiently specified. Would contribute to the achievement of renewable energy and climate change targets, but even the largest wind farms are unlikely to merit national development status. Scottish Planning Policy 6 provides the planning policy framework. |
128 | Off-shore renewable energy developments | + | 0 | 0 | + | 0 | + | Moderately + | N | Insufficiently specified. Would contribute to the achievement of renewable energy and climate change targets, but even the largest wind farms are unlikely to merit national development status. An issue for marine spatial planning. Scottish Government's SEA of marine energy addresses the environmental issues. |
129 | Marine Energy Resource Development | + | 0/+ | 0 | + | 0 | + | Mostly + | N | Insufficiently specified, not considered in supplementary SEA. Areas of marine energy potential are identified on Map 19 of the Discussion Draft NPF2 and Map 9 of the proposed NPF2. |
130 | Baseload Power Station | -/0/+ | 0 | 0 | -/0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | Mixed | N | Without a geographical dimension, this is insufficiently specified. See New Non-Nuclear Baseload Capacity at Existing Power Station Sites. Assessment of environmental effects depends on generator type. Supplementary SEA considers clean coal baseload generation at identified locations. |
131 | Biomass Energy from Timber Processing | + | 0 | 0 | + | 0 | + | Moderately + | N | Insufficiently specified. Could contribute to energy from waste and CHP projects. Issue addressed in NPF text. |
132 | A National Energy Plan | ? | 0 | 0 | ? | 0 | + | Mostly neutral or unknown | N | A plan, not a development. Draft Renewable Energy Framework issued. SPP6 sets out Scottish Government's approach to renewable energy developments. Areas with marine energy potential are identified on Map 9 of the Proposed NPF. |
133 | Large Scale Electrical Generation Infrastructure | + | 0/+ | 0 | -/0/+ | 0 | + | Mainly neutral | N | Insufficiently specified. See New Non-Nuclear Baseload Capacity at Existing Power Station Sites. Assessment of environmental effects depends on generator type. Supplementary SEA considers clean coal baseload generation at identified locations. |
134 | Potential sites for Nuclear Power Generation | + | 0/+ | 0 | -/0/+ | 0 | + | Mainly neutral | N | The Scottish Government does not support the development of new nuclear power stations. |
135 | Hunterston - Carradale/Mull of Kintyre Sub-sea Cable | ? | 0 | + | ? | 0 | + | Mixed | N | Need not established. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
136 | Dounreay De- commissioning Facility | + | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | + | + | Moderately + | N | A decommissioning strategy is in place. Designation would not assist implementation. |
137 | Enhanced Transmission capacity from North of Scotland to the Central Belt | + | 0 | + | + | ? | + | Mostly + | N | Ofgem has agreed the need for additional transmission infrastructure between the North and the Central Belt. Addressed in Electricity Grid Reinforcements. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
138 | Edinburgh Biomass | ? | ? | 0 | ? | 0 | ? | Unknown | N | Insufficiently specified. |
Major Growth / Regeneration projects |
139 | West Edinburgh International Business Gateway | + | + | + | -/+ | 0 | + | Very +, slightly - | N | Contributes significantly to economic development and helps to strengthen global links. Helps to realise the strategic potential of West Edinburgh. Complementary to airport expansion and potentially served by Edinburgh Tram. Included in package of airport enhancements. The West Edinburgh Planning Framework has been subject to SEA. The STPR does not commit to road improvements in the area, but does commits to rail improvements including a new station facilitating access to the airport and other developments. |
140 | Clyde Gateway | + | 0 | + | 0 | + | + | Mostly + | N | The status of the Clyde Gateway as the priority location for regeneration is already established. Not an infrastructure project and designation is not required to secure delivery. Glasgow Strategic Drainage Plan will help unlock its full potential. Addressed in NPF text. |
141 | Clyde Waterfront | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | Mostly neutral | N | A collection of projects with a long delivery horizon. Not an infrastructure project. Planning principle already established. Addressed in NPF text. |
142 | Edinburgh Waterfront | + | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Slightly + | N | Includes cross-Forth ferry links, the Edinburgh tram and road access improvements. Principle established and elements already underway. A very significant area for renewal but not an infrastructure project. The Supplementary SEA considers the Edinburgh tram separately. Addressed in NPF text. |
143 | Ravenscraig | + | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | Slightly + | N | Status as a key location for regeneration in Lanarkshire already established in planning policy. Not an infrastructure project and of regional rather than national importance. Designation not required to secure implementation. Addressed in NPF text. |
144 | Riverside Inverclyde | + | + | + | 0 | + | 0 | Mostly + | N | Already identified as a priority location for regeneration. URC established. Not an infrastructure project and of regional rather than national importance. Designation not required to secure implementation. Addressed in NPF text. |
145 | Irvine Bay | + | 0 | + | 0 | + | 0 | Moderately + | N | Already identified as a priority location for regeneration. URC established. Not an infrastructure project and of regional rather than national importance. Designation not required to secure implementation. Addressed in NPF text. |
146 | Dundee Waterfront | + | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | Modestly + | N | Strategic location of importance to the development of Dundee. Not an infrastructure project. Subject of Master Plan. Designation not required to secure implementation. Addressed in NPF text. |
147 | Dundee Central Waterfront | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Neutral | N | Strategic location of importance to the development of Dundee. Not an infrastructure project. Subject of Master Plan. Designation not required to secure implementation. Addressed in NPF text. |
148 | Inverness to Nairn Growth Corridor, including Ardersier and Tornagrain | + | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | Modestly + | N | Strategic location of importance to the development of the Inverness to Nairn Corridor. Subject of Master Plan. Designation not required to secure implementation. The Supplementary SEA considers the A96 Corridor. |
149 | Forestmill, Alloa | + | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | Modestly + | N | Location of importance to the growth of Alloa, rather than of national importance. Not an infrastructure project. Matter for development plan. |
150 | Dundee Western Gateway Villages | + | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Slightly + | N | Locations of importance to the growth of Dundee rather than of national importance. Not an infrastructure project. Matter for development plan. |
151 | Dundee Western Strategic Business Development Site | + | + | 0 | 0 | 0 | ? | Modestly + | N | Strategic location of importance to the development of Dundee. Could help to strengthen intellectual links. Not an infrastructure project and designation not required to secure implementation. Questionable whether of more than regional importance. |
152 | Aberdeen Biomedical Park | + | + | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Modestly + | N | Strategic location of importance to the economy of Aberdeen city region. Not an infrastructure project and designation not required to secure implementation. |
153 | Fife Energy park | + | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0/+ | Slightly + | N | A regionally important facility with potential to contribute to sustainable economic growth and the realisation of environmental targets. Dock facilities offer offshore energy potential. Status established in Structure Plan. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
154 | A full University of the Highlands and Islands | + | + | 0 | 0 | + | + | Very + | 'N | Significant contribution to economic growth and the development of intellectual links. UHI Millennium Institute is already progressing to full university status. Designation is not required to secure implementation. |
155 | Edinburgh Bio-Quarter | + | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0/+ | Modestly + | N | Project aims to create a world-class centre for life sciences. A regionally important facility with potential to contribute to sustainable economic growth and the realisation of environmental targets. Planning principles and masterplan established. Designation not required to facilitate implementation. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
156 | Edinburgh BioQuarter Extension | + | + | 0 | 0 | + | + | Moderately + | N | Extension to the existing site will require planning permission and improved access arrangements (potentially including a tram link). Investment in flood attenuation also required. While investment potential is significant, will primarily benefit Edinburgh city region. Included in Scottish Government Infrastructure Investment Plan 2008. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
157 | The Energetica Corridor | ? | 0 | 0 | ? | 0 | 0 | Modestly + | N | A series of interventions to improve the economic offer and connectivity of the corridor between Aberdeen and Peterhead. an initiative to create a global hub for the development of energy technologies. A policy approach rather than a discrete development. Addressed in NPF text. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
158 | The Nigg Fabrication Yard | 0/+ | 0/+ | 0/+ | -/0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | Modestly + | N | The deep water facility provides potential opportunities related to inspection, repair and maintenance, decommissioning and fabrication. There are also opportunities related to the management of oil and gas industry wastes. Site safeguarded in the development plan. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
159 | Regeneration of Urban Renfrewshire | ? | ? | ? | ? | 0 | 0 | Mostly unknown | N | Insufficiently specified. |
160 | Aberdeen City Region Development Project | + | + | ? | ? | 0 | 0/+ | Mixed | N | Designation of core area of Aberdeen City region encompassing sea ports, the airport and key business locations. Not an infrastructure project and planning principles already established. Addressed in NPF text. |
161 | Stranraer Waterfront | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Neutral | N | Regeneration following re-location of the ferry terminal. Not an infrastructure project, but a regeneration project of regional importance. Master Plan already prepared. Addressed in NPF text. |
162 | Bowling Waterfront | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0/+ | Mainly neutral | N | A master planning exercise is underway. Some infrastructure improvements possible (A82 and new section of canal linking the Clyde to Loch Lomond). Benefits mainly for the Clyde Valley and Loch Lomond area. Not an infrastructure project. Supplementary SEA considers the environmental effects of a new Lomond Canal separately. |
163 | Strathleven Corridor | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0/+ | Mainly neutral | N | Linked to the Bowling Waterfront proposals. Would use a new canal link between Loch Lomond and the Clyde at Bowling to unlock leisure and tourism opportunities. Limited truly national significance. Beyond the canal this is not an infrastructure project and of regional rather than national significance. Supplementary SEA considers the environmental effects of new Lomond Canal separately. |
164 | M74 Economic Development Corridor | 0/+ | 0/+ | ? | ? | 0 | 0 | Mainly neutral | N | Opportunities offered by Gretna - Lockerbie - Annan regeneration area; Chapelcross power station closure, Gretna as an International Gateway. Improved rail services to Lockerbie from Edinburgh and Glasgow would support the corridor. The area could be attractive to international data centre operations and benefits from location near national/international data fibre connection routes. Not an infrastructure project. Concept requires further development and benefits appear mainly regional. |
165 | Gretna International Gateway | ? | ? | ? | ? | 0 | ? | Mainly unknown | N | Based on the location of Gretna on the Scotland/England border and the Trans-European Transport route. Links to the M74 Economic Development Corridor. Not an infrastructure project. |
166 | Ayr Renaissance / Town Centre Redevelopment | ? | ? | ? | ? | ? | ? | Extremely ? | N | Not an infrastructure project and of regional rather than national importance. Addressed in NPF text. |
167 | Energetics Cluster on the Ardeer Peninsula | + | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Mostly Neutral | N | Not an infrastructure project, but significant in diversifying Ayrshire's economic base. Addressed in NPF text. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
168 | Dumfries Town Centre Regeneration | ? | 0 | 0 | ? | 0 | 0 | Mostly 0 | N | Not an infrastructure project and of regional rather than national importance. Addressed in NPF text. |
169 | West Lothian Strategic Employment Zone | ? | ? | ? | ? | ? | ? | Unknown | N | Insufficiently specified. |
170 | Outer Hebrides National Energy Zone | 0/+ | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | + | Modestly + | N | Builds on work in the Western Isles to use local knowledge and geographical capacity to make renewable energy innovation a core component of the economy. More of a policy approach than a development. New sub-sea cable would facilitate. Environmental issues considered in the SEA. |
171 | Westfield Energy Park | ? | ? | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | 0/+ | Mostly neutral / Modestly + | N | Fife Structure Plan allocates land for a Green Business Park in order to grow the energy sector. Planning principle established. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
Scottish Sustainable Communities Imitative |
172 | Sustainable Communities Initiative | + | 0 | 0/+ | + | 0 | + | Modestly + | N | SSCI bids currently being considered. |
173 | Dumfries Sustainable Community Project | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | N | SSCI bids currently being considered. |
174 | SSCI - Ravenscraig | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | N | SSCI bids currently being considered. |
175 | SSCI - South Lanarkshire Community Growth Areas | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | N | SSCI bids currently being considered. |
176 | SSCI - Newtown St Boswells | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | N | SSCI bids currently being considered. |
177 | SSCI - Cardenden; Bowling | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | N | SSCI bids currently being considered. |
178 | SSCI - A96 Corridor | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | N | SSCI bids currently being considered. |
179 | SSCI - Dumfries | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | N | SSCI bids currently being considered. |
Environmental Infrastructure |
180 | Peterhead Carbon Sequestration Demonstration Plant | + | + | 0 | + | 0 | + | Mostly + | N | Exemplar project would help to reduce CO 2 emissions. Potential for developing intellectual links at the cutting edge of environmental technology. However, no current developer interest. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
181 | Edinburgh Carbon Sequestration Plant | + | + | 0 | + | 0 | + | Mostly + | N | Insufficiently specified and no information about developer interest. An exemplar project could help to reduce CO 2 emissions. Potential for developing intellectual links at the cutting edge of environmental technology. |
182 | Facility(s) for low level radio active waste infrastructure to deal with waste from nuclear industry. | + | 0 | 0 | 0/- | 0 | + | Moderately + | N | Insufficiently specified. Drigg in Cumbria is nearly full up. Low level waste sites required to deal with waste from nuclear industry. Proposed facility at Dounreay already the subject of a planning application. |
183 | Low level radio active waste infrastructure at Dounreay to meet LLW strategy. | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | + | 0 | Slightly + | N | Drigg in Cumbria is nearly full up. Low level waste site required to deal with waste form nuclear industry. Already the subject of a planning application. |
184 | Waverley Line Corridor - Packaged with water and drainage infrastructure | + | 0 | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | + | Moderately + | N | Development of infrastructure in association with the reopening of the line. Would help to establish the priority for Scottish Water investment and ensure water supply issues are addressed in a strategic manner. The SEA notes that this would be beneficial. Benefit of national development status questionable. Addressed in NPF text. |
185 | Flood Management Infrastructure | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0/+ | Slightly + | N | Insufficiently specified, though projects could emerge which would merit designation in the future. Could assist adaptation to climate change. Development Plans can address regional needs. |
186 | Infrastructure to protect the Firth of Forth from coastal flooding | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | + | Slightly + | N | Flood management is to be taken forward by local authorities. Environmental issues considered in the SEA. |
187 | All coastal protection infrastructure | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | + | Mainly neutral | N | Insufficiently specified. Not all coastal protection infrastructure is of national significance. |
188 | Superquarry | + | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | + | Mostly neutral | N | Insufficiently specified. |
189 | Other infrastructure required for municipal and non-municipal waste. | + | 0/+ | 0 | + | + | + | Very + | N | Insufficiently specified. Would contribute to the realisation of waste management targets. Deriving energy from waste up to cap set by Ministers could increase efficiency, thus contributing to the achievement of climate change targets. Supplementary SEA considers a national network of waste facilities. |
190 | National Ecological Network | 0/+ | 0 | + | + | 0 | + | Mostly + | N | Would improve connectivity between habitats, potentially facilitating adaptation to climate change. Expanding woodland cover would help to capture carbon. Offers potential to increase eco-tourism. Scale of potential benefits uncertain. Very limited planning input, so designation not required to secure delivery. |
191 | Central Scotland Green Network | + | 0/+ | 0/+ | + | 0/+ | + | Moderately + | N | Step change in environmental quality, making the Edinburgh-Glasgow corridor a more attractive place to work and live. Increased woodland cover to capture carbon and improve landscape quality, habitat and amenity. Improved off-road connectivity. Planning input limited. Designation not required to secure delivery. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
192 | Coastal and Marine National Parks | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | Neutral | N | Designation of Marine National Parks is on hold pending development of Marine Strategy. Designation as national developments would not be required to secure delivery. |
193 | Coastal Retreat | 0 | 0 | 0 | + | 0 | 0/+ | Neutral | N | Insufficiently specified. |
194 | Landscape Ecological Restoration Project | ? | 0 | + | ? | 0 | + | Mixed | N | Insufficiently specified. |
Leisure |
195 | Relocation of the Royal Highland Show Ground | + | + | 0/+ | 0/+ | 0 | + | Mostly+ | N | Facilitates implementation of the Edinburgh Airport Masterplan. International visitor attraction with potential as an exemplar of sustainable design. Facilitates improvements to airport access. Need established in WEPF, but designation would facilitate delivery, given development plan land designations. Included in the package of Edinburgh Airport enhancements. Environmental effects considered in the Supplementary SEA and also subject to SEA as part of the WEPF. |
196 | Golf Course Developments | 0/+ | + | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Mostly neutral | N | Insufficiently specified. Could strengthen Scotland's appeal as a leisure destination. Individual developments unlikely to be of more than regional importance. A matter for development plans. |
197 | Development of the Canal Network, including a new Lomond Canal | -/0/+ | 0/+ | + | 0/+ | 0 | + | Modestly + | N | Potential tourism and other economic benefits. Opportunities for community regeneration and water-based freight. Could complement green networks and walking and cycling routes. Insufficiently specified and national significance unclear. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
198 | Major Tourism Developments | + | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0/+ | Mostly neutral | N | Insufficiently specified, therefore not considered within the supplementary SEA. Could be dealt with by major planning application category. |
199 | Motor sports complex near Gatehouse of Fleet | 0 | 0 | 0 | - | 0 | 0/+ | Mostly neutral | N | Potential regional economic benefits, but not of national significance. |
200 | National scale tourist development | + | ? | 0 | -/0 | 0 | 0/+ | Mixed | N | Insufficiently specified to allow designation. |
Social Infrastructure |
201 | Prison | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | + | Mostly neutral | N | Insufficiently specified to allow designation. |
202 | Digital Switchover [ DSO] Project | 0 | + | + | 0 | + | + | Mostly + | N | Insufficiently specified. Likely requirement to develop antenna arrays. Significant in that the antennae support the national project but the extent to which new antennae are needed (and their scale) is unclear. Permitted development rights may apply. The elements which are not permitted development may involve numerous planning applications which may not be classed as 'major'. No clear need for designation. |
203 | Increase broadband capacity | + | + | + | + | + | + | Extremely + | N | To overcome capacity constraints in the existing network. Insufficiently specified to allow designation. Limited planning input. A programme to provide access to first generation broadband is already underway. Pathfinder Project in progress. Increased broadband capacity and speeds can be achieved by a move from copper to fibre optic cables. |
Utilities Infrastructure |
204 | Edinburgh Drinking Water Project | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | + | 0 | Mostly 0 | N | Replacement of water mains and storage tanks, increasing water quality and providing for future city growth. Elements of the project already underway, so designation not required to secure delivery. |
205 | Drainage infrastructure for Edinburgh | 0/+ | 0 | 0 | 0 | + | 0 | Mostly 0 | N | Needed to overcome capacity constraints on trunk sewers and at treatment works. Insufficiently specified to allow designation and likely to be of regional rather than national importance. Scottish Water is investing in the area. |
206 | Municipal waste infrastructure/ national network of waste facilities. | + | 0 | 0 | + | 0 | + | Generally + | N | Insufficient information on the nature, location and scale of the facilities to allow designation. Environmental issues considered in the Supplementary SEA. |
Other |
207 | There should be scope for national developments that do not meet all the criteria, for example regeneration. Regeneration developments have still got national importance. | ? | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Mostly neutral | N | Strategically significant regeneration issues are addressed in the text of the NPF. Not sufficiently specified to allow consideration in the Supplementary SEA. |