Consultation on planning guidelines

Orkney Islands Council is seeking feedback on guidelines covering the contributions project developers might be asked to make as part of the planning process.

The Scottish Government recently released updated policy to local authorities on when developer contributions may be required. The OIC has responded by producing new guidance, currently in draft form, on developer contributions.

The aim is to provide clarity on the issue – with views and ideas invited during a consultation period running from March 7 to April 18.

Developer contributions are a planning requirement when projects require improvements to infrastructure, facilities and services in order to be acceptable in planning terms.

Examples may include:

• A road needs to be widened to allow a new housing development to get the go-ahead.
• A footpath is required to link planned new houses to their local school.
• Flood risk defences are needed if land currently at risk from flooding is to be developed.

The draft guidance, along with a consultation feedback form, is available at www.orkney.gov.uk, in paper form from OIC customer services in Kirkwall and Stromness and from Kirkwall Library and mobile library vans.

Feedback can be sent by filling out a consultation feedback form and sending, by email, to devplan@orkney.gov.uk or by post to the planning manager, development and marine planning, Orkney Islands Council, School Place, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1NY.