The Scottish Parliament

Questions and answers

Parliamentary questions can be asked by any MSP to the Scottish Government or the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body. The questions provide a means for MSPs to get factual and statistical information.

Written questions must be answered within 10 working days (20 working days during recess)

Other questions such as Topical, Portfolio, General and First Minister's Question Times are taken in the Chamber

Urgent Questions aren't included in the Question and Answers search. There is a SPICe fact sheet listing Urgent and emergency questions.

Question reference: S6W-44485

Asked by: Monica Lennon, MSP for Central Scotland, Scottish Labour
Date lodged: Thursday, 12 March 2026
Current Status: Answered by Ivan McKee on 19 March 2026

To ask the Scottish Government what its policy is regarding the proximity of high-risk retail units, such as those storing large quantities of combustible lithium-ion products, to critical national infrastructure like Glasgow Central Station, and whether it will review planning and building standards to prevent the location of such businesses in high-density transport hubs.

Planning applications are considered on a case-by-case basis. Applications for planning permission for a new retail premises would be determined by the relevant planning authority in accordance with the development plan unless there are material planning considerations which, in the authority’s opinion justify a departure from that plan. It would be for the relevant planning authority to consider whether, and if so how, proximity to existing infrastructure is relevant to a decision on the application. Changing the type of goods sold within an existing shop does not generally require planning permission.

Similarly, applications for a building warrant require case by case consideration by a local authority verifier. Where a building warrant is required for a change of use the applicant and verifier should consider the extent to which the building standards apply, including those to address the spread of fire within and to neighbouring buildings.

The Scottish Government is currently undertaking public consultation through a Call for Evidence in relation to fire safety standards. This consultation is seeking industry views on new and emerging fire safety issues and a review of current guidance, and will close on 10 April.

Scottish building regulations - fire safety review and compliance: call for evidence - gov.scot

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Question reference: S6W-44485

Answer