Community Engagement
Community engagement in the planning process has long been encouraged by the Scottish Government through its published planning policies. The requirement for community engagement, in particular through pre-application consultation, has now been put on a statutory footing for major and national developments.
The need for pre-application consultation between the developer and the
community has been introduced to ensure that communities are made aware of and have an opportunity to comment on certain types of proposals before a planning application is submitted. This formal process is meant to deal with any particular community issues.
There are varying levels and types of consultation with communities, however, as a minimum a developer must consult with the local Community Council(s) whose area is within, or adjoins, the land on which the development is proposed.
The developer must hold at least one public event for members of the public where they can make comments on the proposals. A report of the pre-application consultation must be lodged with the planning application.
An important point for communities to bear in mind is that any objections which are aired during this pre-application phase do not automatically become formal objections to the planning application. A formal objection or representation will need to be made at the appropriate time, after the planning application has been lodged.
Our planning lawyers understand the very real importance of community engagement from an early stage, and how this can bring rewards through reducing community opposition to more controversial applications.
We work with planning consultants and lobbyists who will be able to smooth the way for a successful outcome of your planning proposal.
To find out how we can help, contact our specialist listed below:
Planning Law
T: 0131 247 3181
E: douglas.milne@morton-fraser.com
Environmental Law
T: 0131 247 1336
