Strathearn Local Plan
What is the Strathearn 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 the eastern edge of Loch Earn to the west, and the upland area around Ben Chonzie to the north, with the Earn Valley and the Ochill Hills to the south. 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 of 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 May 2001 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 Crieff and Auchterarder. A number of other villages and small settlements are included stretching from Chapelhill in the north east down to Greenloaning in the south and across to St Fillans in the west.
What if I live in the area covered by the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park?
The Park Authority prepared a draft Park Plan for consultation in May 2005 and after making revisions based on the responses, submitted a finalised Plan to Scottish Ministers on 1 December 2006. A State of the Park report providing context and background information was published in 2005. See the article in a' phairc no 1 for more information.
What are the aims of the Strathearn plan?
The key aims of the Plan are:
- To provide development opportunities in appropriate locations
- To protect and enhance the quality and diversity of Strathearn's environment
Where will new housing be built?
The majority of the houses needed will be built in Crieff. A significant amount of housing will also be built in Auchterarder and Blackford which have been identified for longer-term expansion. 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 seeks to protect the landscape by resisting isolated housing in the countryside, but at the same time allowing appropriate opportunities for people living in rural areas. The Plan therefore allows houses in appropriate locations.
What about employment land?
We are seeking to enhance the provision of employment land in Auchterarder and to maintain the existing supply in Crieff. The Plan 8.5ha in Auchterarder, 4ha in Crieff, 2.5ha in Aberuthven, 7.5ha in Blackford, 0.5ha in Comrie and 2ha in the landward area.
What about tourism?
The role of tourism within the Strathearn economy is important. The Strathearn area has a number of strengths in terms of the tourism market namely the range and quality of accommodation, the landscape, and the high quality facilities available to visitors. The key aims for tourist related development are to:
- Encourage the continued improvement in the quality and range of accommodation
- Allow opportunities for chalet and timeshare developments in appropriate locations
Are there any transport improvements proposed?
Work is being progressed to examine opportunities for the continued enhancement of the A85.
- We recommend to the Scottish Executive that improvements are made to the A9 through the provision of grade separated junctions.
- Within Crieff and Auchterarder enhanced pedestrian facilities will be put in place to reduce the speed of traffic and improve safety for pedestrians.
- Redevelopment and improvement of Gleneagles Station for both transportation and possible tourist related uses.
- Investigation of opportunities to make use of rail-freight to and from Blackford as well as the possibilities of a rail halt at this location.
Where can I get more information?
If you want more information contact Ciara Duffy
