Both the natural and built environments are ultimately controlled by the planning system. Planning permission is the key which unlocks most construction or development projects.

The primary objectives of the planning system are to promote sustainable economic development, encourage and support regeneration and to maintain and enhance the quality of the natural heritage and built environment. The planning system is increasingly required to shape our cities, towns and rural areas.

The Scottish planning system is undergoing considerable change under the new Planning etc. (Scotland) Act 2006. Secondary legislation is also currently being developed by the Scottish Government in order to realise the expectations of the new system.

As the new planning system evolves, it is inevitable that an initial period of uncertainty will develop. There are opportunities for you to be gained by engaging with the new system, emphasising the need for you to obtain strategic legal advice in order to identify and utilise the opportunities at the earliest stages of property development.

We are in a position to provide you with a proactive and practical perspective, supported by a great depth of experience and knowledge of planning law and practice. This covers a number of different areas, including development and infrastructure projects at both local and national level, representing land owners, house builders, renewable energy companies and other commercial property developers.

We offer you a full range of services in respect of planning, from planning agreements, planning permissions, appeals to compulsory purchases and compensation, enforcement procedures, planning appeals (including advocacy) and judicial review.

Our team includes an accredited specialist in planning law and a board member of the UK Environmental Law Association. We are also in the unique position of being able to offer you specialist expertise in parliamentary work in conjunction with our parliamentary and public law unit.

There is an increasing focus on the potential for damage of proposed development to the environment. We can provide you with advice on both the inter-relationship between planning and environmental controls and specific planning issues.

For more information please contact Alastair McKie.