Today we have published an update of the Scottish Vacant and Derelict Land Map (SVDL) for 2025. The aim of the map is to make SVDL data more accessible in order to encourage the re-development and re-use of sites. bit.ly/3TWeCpm
We have published a summary of responses to our consultation on increasing the 50MW threshold which determines whether applications for onshore electricity generating stations are decided by Scottish Ministers or by the relevant planning authority. gov.scot/isbn/9781807755140
Work on the review of Local Place Plans required by the Planning (Scotland) Act 2019 is now underway. As well as gathering statistical evidence on the numbers of LPPs that have been prepared so far, we would welcome your insights and perceptions. bit.ly/4xXfZSx
We will be holding some short online workshops to allow discussion and feedback. Find out more details about the workshops here: linkedin.com/posts/planning-…
Scottish Ministers have issued a direction requiring an Environmental Impact Assessment must be undertaken for all new data centres exceeding 50MW power capacity. A copy of the Direction and accompanying letter can be found here: bit.ly/4xDwPpu
Compulsory Purchase Reform in Scotland: The Way Forward is published today. It outlines our proposals for reform, and indicates we will bring forward legislation in this Parliamentary term.
bit.ly/4wPQZMw
Also published today are reports on the responses to 2025’s Compulsory Purchase Reform consultation, one covering compulsory purchase and another on compulsory sale and lease orders.
CLO bit.ly/4qFt6Wq
CSO/CLO bit.ly/4i0kZS9
We have published a summary of responses to the consultation ‘Accelerating home-building in Scotland’. The consultation was a starting point for discussion about possible measures that could accelerate the build-out of housing in Scotland.
gov.scot/isbn/9781807753771
Scot Gov Planning retweeted
Planning authorities will have to notify Scottish Ministers of new data centre applications within seven days.
A new direction has been issued by Public Finance Minister Hannah Mary Goodlad. This applies to data centre developments using more than 50 Megawatts of power.
Our latest blog explores the implications of the Wull Muir ruling for Environmental Impact Assessment in Scotland, including outcomes from the recent EIA roundtable and details of forthcoming guidance and training. Read more ➡️bit.ly/4yLEjZb
In Spring we brought together planning authorities, industry and the Improvement Service to collaborate on considering how to deal with new evidence in preparing local development plans.
The resulting asks for clarity on key messages, practical advice and support and increasing in-person working are now set out in a blog⬇️
bit.ly/4vWcXhh
We are now in the pre-election period.
Our social media activity is restricted until after the Scottish Parliament election on Thursday 7 May 2026.
Read more: gov.scot/publications/scotti…
Today saw the publication of a new circular on planning fees. Circular 1/2026 consolidates Circular 2/2025 fees for applications and Circular 3/2025 Fees for Local Reviews and Appeals. It also contains updated fees due to come into force on 1 April 2026.
gov.scot/isbn/9781806438624
There is only one week left to submit your views on increasing the threshold for applications under the Electricity Act consultation. The closing date to respond is 27 March⬇️
We have published a consultation on increasing the current threshold of 50MW for onshore electricity generating stations to be considered by local authorities. Share your views➡️Https://www.gov.scot/isbn/97…
The Minister for Public Finance and the Chief Planner have written to stakeholders. The letter provides a progress update on those priority actions identified in the 2025 Programme for Government.
bit.ly/410yQOF
There is still time to make your views on the accelerating home-building in Scotland consultation. The closing date to respond is 30 April⬇️
bit.ly/4uCDkZh
Today we have published a blog to highlight a year of the work of the National Planning Hub⬇️bit.ly/4bhY9QE












