The National Planning Framework (NPF) is the Scottish Government's long-term spatial strategy for the development of Scotland.
The NPF sits at the top of the planning hierarchy and development plans and planning decisions taken by the Council must take account of the strategy and proposals set out in the NPF.
National Planning Framework 4 was adopted by Scottish Ministers on 13 February 2023, following approval by the Scottish Parliament in January.
It replaces NPF3 and Scottish Planning Policy.