Question reference: S5W-33487
- Asked by: Liam McArthur, MSP for Orkney Islands, Scottish Liberal Democrats
- Date lodged: 23 November 2020
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Current status: Answered by Kevin Stewart on 2 December 2020
Question
To ask the Scottish Government, in light of research by Scottish Renewables recording a 20% reduction since 2011 in the number of local authority planning department staff, how it will ensure that councils are appropriately resourced to deliver the planning consents needed to deliver the renewable energy generation required to meet the net-zero target.
Answer
We are aware of concerns around resourcing of planning authorities and the need for efficient handling of applications, particularly those with the potential to support key policy drivers including emissions reductions.
Our programme of planning reform aims to improve the system as a whole and our extensive programme of policy, regulations and guidance will bring greater certainty over consenting and delivery of planned development, supporting economic recovery whilst also delivering social and environmental benefits. We will also consider whether to extend ‘permitted development rights’ which remove the need to apply for planning permission for zero-emission heat networks and micro-renewable technologies.
Plans to revise planning fees are currently paused due to the potential impact on the development sector in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. However Ministers remain committed to ensuring that planning authorities are properly resourced and we will bring forward a revised fee structure as soon as the timing is appropriate.