THE Scottish Government has announced that the need for planning permission for certain types of rural developments ‘could’ be removed.
Small scale developments such as the conversion of agricultural buildings to deliver more homes in rural areas could automatically be given the go-ahead under a review of planning laws, according to the Government.
The development of larger operational farm buildings including sheds and polytunnels have also been mentioned as possibly being exempted.
Planning minister Kevin Stewart said, “Scotland’s rural areas are a major source of growth, with environmental quality that underpins key sectors such as food and drink, tourism, energy and the creative industries. That’s why tackling depopulation and supporting the sustainability our rural communities is so important.
“I believe these reforms will help support work aimed at increasing the rural population, will support succession planning for farmers and will provide an opportunity for the planning system to positively contribute to the long-term sustainability of rural businesses and communities.”
