Views sought on planning relaxation proposals

VIEWS are being sought on proposals that might see certain types of activity – such as outdoor restaurant seating – being relieved of the need to seek planning permission.

Says the Scottish Government, it has launched a consultation (here) – as part of its Permitted Development Rights review – on measures that would save applicants the time and expense of applying for planning permission for some types of development.

The consultation proposals include:

* outdoor restaurant seating could be permitted without a planning application under new proposals to support the hospitality industry;

* relaxing the need to seek planning permission for electric vehicle charging infrastructure in car parks or at filling stations; and

* allowing a wider variety of changes of use for premises in city, town and local centres to promote more rapid adaption to changing circumstances and permitting conversion of buildings to small workspaces to support local innovation and entrepreneurship as part of the national strategy to transform the economy.

The proposals are designed to help bolster the country’s hospitality industry and (says the Scottish Government) “make city, town and local centres feel more welcoming and vibrant”.

The closing date for views is August 3 – here.

Picture credit: Place Design Scotland