Current status: Answered by Tom Arthur on 12 December 2022
To ask the Scottish Government what consideration it has given to introducing a low-carbon planning fund, which has been identified by Scottish Renewables as important for supporting local authority planning departments that are reportedly experiencing a significant impact on their resources due to the demands of renewable energy projects.
We are liaising with stakeholders and Network Operators to explore ways to accelerate the determination of applications.
National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) will set a more consistent framework for development across Scotland, once approved by Parliament and adopted by Ministers. It will provide a more enabling approach to renewable energy developments, as part of the statutory development plan.
We have no current plans to introduce a specific planning fund related to renewable energy developments. However, we recognise the importance of delivering on this vision and the resourcing and skills challenges for planning authorities, which we are taking steps to address.
In April Planning Fees were increased by between 25% and 50% for most types of planning application. Fees for applications made under the Electricity Act will also be increased, due to come into effect on 13 December, maintaining the voluntary contribution of 50% of the fee being passed to planning authorities. This will provide much needed additional resource for planning services across Scotland, helping authorities to retain and recruit staff.
The Scottish Government is also working with the profession to improve the pipeline of talented and skilled planners. This includes work with the High Level Group on Planning Performance to enhance resources and skills within planning, including: