LPP Development: Let’s talk about Planning (Part 1 on NPF4)

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Let’s talk about Planning (Part 1 on NPF4)

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What is the National Planning Framework? 

The National Planning Framework is Scotland’s long-term spatial strategy, guiding land-use and development hand-in-hand with policy.  It is informed by all the local authorities which it serves.  The Highland Council is one of the contributors to the development of this; along with all other Local Authorities.  The current version NPF4 was published in 2023, and it informs all planning policy and decision making over development at a national level.

https://www.gov.scot/publications/national-planning-framework-4/

What is its significance?

  • Unified document, linking planning policy with planning framework.
  • NPF4 has a statutory role.
  • Part of the development plan (along with the region’s local development plan).
  • Outlines a long-term vision with an outlook to 2045.
  • Captures: Spatial principles; National development; National planning, Regional priorities; National planning policy.
  • Core goals and policies are: Sustainable, liveable, productive places; Tackling climate change; Local living and active travel; Homes and infrastructure; Rural development; Circular economy.

What the Highland Council – as one of the contributing local authorities – has to say about NPF4?

(Extracted from the Highland Council website)

https://www.highland.gov.uk/npf

Long-term plan for Scotland

The National Planning Framework (NPF) is a long-term plan for Scotland.

NPF sets out where national developments and infrastructure is needed to support sustainable and inclusive growth.

The current version is National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4).

NPF4 Preparation

We contributed to the preparation of NPF4 by Scottish Government.

We saw this engagement as a vital opportunity to raise Highland’s profile on the national stage and to showcase how our communities and our area’s unique assets and resources can contribute to national outcomes.

NPF4 adoption and publication

National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) was adopted and published on 13 February 2023, when it became part of the Development Plan (replacing NPF3 and Scottish Planning Policy).

For the first time, spatial and thematic national planning policies are addressed in one place and NPF4 has the status of the development plan for planning purposes.

NPF4 will play a key part in supporting economic recovery from the Coronavirus pandemic and addressing the climate and ecological emergency.

Implications of NPF4 for Highland

NPF4 has implications for planning in Highland, including:

Our Development Plans Newsletter includes information on our work programme.