Meeting of the Parliament 11 January 2023
I am delighted to open this afternoon’s debate on Scotland’s fourth national planning framework. We are in a somewhat novel situation, with Parliament having created a statutory role for itself in approving the final version of the framework without then specifying what that role should involve. Thankfully, we have managed to work it out for ourselves.
I was pleased to lay before Parliament the revised draft of the fourth national planning framework—or NPF4, as we all know it—on 8 November 2022. There was then more parliamentary scrutiny led by the Local Government, Housing and Planning Committee, at which I and other stakeholders gave evidence. The committee has now published its report, and this debate represents the final part of the process. I hope that Parliament comes together later this afternoon to unanimously approve NPF4.
During the process, people told us that, although they broadly supported the draft NPF4, there was scope to significantly improve the policies, the practicality and, importantly, the clarity of intent of the document. I gave my commitment that the Government would take its time and consider carefully the views expressed by the Parliament and by everyone who responded to the consultation—and that I would make sure we get it right and return with a revised NPF4.
That is what we have done. I am pleased that the committee recognises that and welcomes the revised draft and the improvements that we have made.
We listened, we reconsidered and we acted on what people told us. In that, I warmly welcome the committee’s conclusion that
“It is clear ... that the Scottish Government has listened to the comments of the Committee and stakeholders”.
Yes, we did, and the revised NPF4 is so much the better for it.
I also welcome the committee’s intention to monitor delivery, and I very much look forward to continuing to engage with the committee on that in the months and years ahead.