MSP hits out at new Bill

Planning changes blasted

Central Scotland MSP Graham Simpson has criticised the Scottish Government after it published the Planning ( Scotland) Bill – labelling it a “missed opportunity”.

On the day the bill was discussed at Holyrood, a survey revealed that planning applications for local housing, householder and maj o r h o u s i n g developments have all fallen.

Scottish Conservative housing spokesman Mr Simpson also slammed a new power enabling the Scottish Government to take over a local authority planning department at any time as “draconian”.

He said: “The Planning Bill contains some positive steps, such as simplified planning zones, which I would support. However, I will oppose the proposed infrastructure levy if it enables the Scottish Government to gather those funds, not councils. This is absolutely unacceptable.

“In addition, the draconian power to send in a Scottish Government trouble-shooter if a minister decides a council’s planning department isn’t performing is unnecessary.

“The Scottish Government would even be able to take over a planning department. This is a slap in the face for localism.”

Mr Simpson added: “The Scottish Conservatives support the measures that will speed up planning processes, ensure that planning decisions are made locally and that money gained from developers is ploughed back into their communities.

“The planning bill, as it stands, is a missed opportunity.”