Council raises more concerns over cost of delayed fifeplan

The Scottish Government’s response to the Fife local development plan is now expected to be delayed by five months.

Fife Council’s depute leader Lesley Laird has again raised concerns about the cost of delays to the fifeplan, blamed on “unforeseen circumstances”, and also the anxiety caused to local communities.

The Government’s Planning and Environmental Appeals Division (DPEA) had set an initial target date in June for the report but it is now expected to be in the council’s hands the week beginning November 14.

Mrs Laird said: “I have once again written to the Minister for Local Government and Housing, Kevin Stewart MSP.

“These delays are causing uncertainly in the Fife economy and anxiety for communities and developers.

“There are a number of major planning applications where the applicants are awaiting the outcomes of the examination before progressing with their applications.

“As well as the significant overrun of timescales, the cost to the council is considerable and continues to escalate. I have again asked the Scottish Government the extent to which DPEA should cover the costs arising from the ongoing delay.”

A Scottish Government spokesman said: “Reporters considering the Fife local development plan have had to issue over 100 requests for more information because of insufficient information submitted by the council.

“This is an unprecedented number and has inevitably had an impact on the length of time being taken to conduct the examination.”