Highland Local Plan
What is the Highland Area Local Plan ?
It is part of the Development Plan which comprises the Structure Plan and the Local Plan.
It is the land-use plan covering the area which extends from Murthly in the south to the Drumochter Pass in the north and from Rannoch Moor in the west to the Forest of Atholl and Clunie in the east. It contains detailed guidance on where we will encourage development and where it is unlikely to be allowed. It guides day-to-day planning decisions and influences the determination of planning applications.
Where can I get a copy of the Plan?
You can view or download the Local Plan by using the download section on this page.
Alternatively if you want a copy of the Plan you should send a cheque to us for £15 at the address below
The Environment Service
Pullar House
35 Kinnoull Street
PERTH
PH1 5GD
When did it come into force?
The Plan was adopted in November 2000 and contains suggested proposals to 2006. It includes policies on a range of issues including housing, environment, business, tourism and recreation, and roads and transport.
What settlements are in the Plan area?
The main settlements are Aberfeldy, Birnam, Dunkeld and Pitlochry. A number of other villages and small settlements are included stretching from Murthly in the south east to Calvine in the north and as far west as Rannoch Station.
The key aims of the Plan are:
To encourage development in the existing settlements to make best use of transport links
- To identify small scale development opportunities in most of the settlements and also to allow small scale housing in the smaller rural locations
- To protect and enhance the landscape and natural and built heritage of the area
Where will new housing be built?
The majority of the houses needed will be built in the main settlements of Pitlochry and Aberfeldy. This will make use of existing public transport connections. It's also where most of the shops and other services are found. The rest of the houses will be built in villages where it will help support shops and public transport."
Can I build a house in the countryside?
The Plan contains the Council's policy on housing in the countryside, which will continue to allow houses in appropriate locations. In the more remote western half of the Plan area, the settlement form is more disperesed. A more flexible policy applies here allowing additional housing in very scattered settlements.
What about employment land?
The provision of employment land is centred around three main areas:
- the encouragement of a mix of uses such as shops, offices, restaurants, public houses and hotels in the centres of Pitlochry, Aberfeldy and Dunkeld to protect and enhance them
- the identification of areas suitable for either industrial or business uses in Aberfeldy, Birnam/Dunkeld, Blair Atholl and Pitlochry
- the encouragement of small-scale business developments within villages
What about tourism?
- Tourism is a crucial part of Highland Perthshires economy and we aim to ensure its continued success. As the supply of tourist accommodation and other facilities is largely adequate, emphasis is placed on improving the quality of facilities. Encouragement is also given to the creation of chalet development in appropriate locations.
Are there any transport proposals?
The main road improvement needed is the upgrading of the A9 to improve road safety. Responsibility for this lies with the Scottish Executive and the Plan calls for them to address this issue. The Plan supports the provision of commercial rest areas on the A9 but not the provision of commercial roadside services.
The Plan supports the provision of public transport and in particular encourages more use of rail facilities for both passenger and freight traffic.
Where can I get more information?
If you want more information contact Ron Moody
