Chief planner’s urgent letter on court ruling and housing crisis

Scotland’s Minister for Public Finance, Ivan McKee MSP, and Chief Planner Dr. Fiona Simpson have recently penned a letter to stakeholders addressing the crucial topic of planning for housing. In light of a recent court judgement and the declaration of a housing emergency, this letter aims to provide clarity on the implementation of NPF4 and Policy 16 Quality Homes. Emphasising the importance of positive collaboration across sectors for successful delivery, the letter also outlines specific requirements for planning authorities in developing Action/Delivery Programmes that support local development plans.

Scotland’s Response to the Housing Crisis

Scotland finds itself in the midst of a national housing emergency. With the First Minister’s commitment to expanding housing supply to address population needs and homelessness, a comprehensive, all-tenure approach is vital. Diversifying the housing supply to encompass a mix of tenures is a key step towards achieving these critical objectives.

While planning is just one component in the complex process of housing delivery, it plays a significant role in instilling confidence in investors. In the face of the recent court judgement and the housing emergency declaration, the letter aims to provide clear guidance on NPF4 application, including Policy 16 ‘Quality Homes’.

Implementation of NPF Policy

The Scottish Ministers stress the importance of interpreting policies within NPF4 as a cohesive framework, where conflicts are deemed normal. Decision-makers are tasked with considering various policies, such as quality homes, brownfield development, and town centre living, in conjunction with relevant material factors when exercising planning discretion. It is crucial to note that the introduction of NPF4 has shifted focus towards providing homes in suitable locations, prioritising quality, diversity, and sustainability.

NPF4 calls for ambitious local development plans extending beyond the Minimum All-Tenure Housing Land Requirement (MATHLR). Emphasising the need for robust data informing plan development, the guidance acknowledges the importance of accommodating a broad spectrum of housing types and sizes across different locations.

Policy 16 within NPF4 supports proposals aligning with local housing requirements, infrastructure services, residential amenity, and affordable housing needs. The letter also underscores the necessity of reviewing and updating action programmes related to local development plans by March 31, 2025, to ensure the timely delivery of housing sites.

Fostering Collaboration

As Scotland navigates the housing crisis, fostering positive dialogue on planning and housing becomes essential. Acknowledging the inherent benefits of quality homes and places, there is a call for collaborative efforts to overcome challenges collectively with unwavering commitment across various sectors.

Highlighting the Scottish Government’s dedication to collaborative work within the planning and housing realms, recent initiatives include discussions on housing need research, support for SME housebuilders, and the implementation of Statements of Community Benefit for housing projects.

• Convening discussions on Homes for Scotland housing need research
• Engaging with SME housebuilders for enhanced planning support
• Implementing Statements of Community Benefit for housing proposals
• Finalising guidance on Housing Land Audits for sector-wide adoption
• Promoting delivery-focused Masterplan Consent Areas in key regions

Tackling the housing emergency demands a multifaceted approach. The Scottish Government stands committed to collaborating effectively to ensure that the planning system contributes optimally towards delivering quality homes where they are most needed. The letter concludes on a note of trust that the advice provided will guide stakeholders towards a positive outcome.

Yours faithfully

Dr. Fiona Simpson, Chief Planner

Ivan McKee MSP, Minister for Public Finance