We are starting the process of preparing a new Local Development Plan (LDP3) which will guide growth and change in our communities for years to come. It will indicate where new development should or should not take place, what infrastructure is needed to support growth, and how our environment and greenspace can be improved.

Evidence Report

The first stage in the process is to gather information about the area which will help us prepare the Evidence Report on which to base the new plan.

We recently asked people who live and work in the area to complete an online survey to tell us about their places and how they function. The survey was based on Public Health Scotland’s Place Standard Tool and was open for 4 months closing on 30 June 2023. We received over 380 responses from the public.

We surveyed Young People and Children separately as it is important to hear from the next generation whose future will be affected by the new plan.

In addition, we also sought the views of Business and Organisations who have a stake in the area. They were invited to supply information related to their interests which they think should be considered as part of the evidence gathering process.

We are currently reviewing all comments received and will produce a Consultation Feedback Report in Autumn 2023 which will analyse the information received.

A significant part of the Evidence Report will be the preparation of a number of Topic Papers on key subjects such as Housing, Employment, Infrastructure etc. Work is ongoing and once prepared the Topic Papers will be published for comment before being summarised and submitted to Scottish Government for their 'Gatecheck' next year. This is a key stage in the preparation of LDP3 and will help identify any gaps in evidence or potential areas of disagreement before progressing to preparation of the Proposed Plan.

There will be further opportunities to contribute to LDP3 in the future, so please refer back to this page to find out more or subscribe to our newsletter for updates.

Development Plan Scheme

Our Development Plan Scheme includes more information on how LDP3 will be prepared, including a programme and how we will consult people on the plan.

Development Plan Scheme

A summary of the timetable for LDP3 is shown below:

Stage Description Date
Development Plan Scheme A project plan setting out timetable and how we’re going to engage people. Plan process is launched. January 2022
Evidence Report Gathering information from agencies and local communities about the area and key topics to prepare Evidence Report. 2022-2023
Gate Check Evidence Report sent to Scottish Ministers. Reporter considers whether evidence is 'sufficient'. 2024
Proposed Plan Call for ideas/sites, consider strategy options, carry out assessments, prepare and consult on Proposed Plan. Modify plan and submit to Scottish Ministers. 2024-2026
Examination Reporter considers unresolved issues at examination and prepares report with recommendations. 2026-2027
Adoption & Delivery Plan modified and adopted. Delivery Programme published. 2027+

Development Plan Update

If you want to keep up to date with the progress of the plan and opportunities to be involved, subscribe to our Development Plan Update, keep an eye on our web page or follow us on Facebook.

The most recent Development Plan newsletter can be viewed below:

March 2023