EUKN - United Kingdom - SPP2: Economic Development

SPP2: Economic Development

Introduction

This SPP replaces NPPG 2 Business and Industry published in September 1993. Its title has been changed and its scope expanded to reflect the significant contribution from non-manufacturing sectors.

Description

The Executive's vision set out in the Framework for Economic Development in Scotland, is that "economic development should raise the quality of life of the Scottish people through increasing economic opportunities for all, on a socially and environmentally sustainable basis." The planning system should provide strong support for economic development, both new and expanding businesses, where it is consistent with other national and local policies, in particular the promotion of social justice and sustainable development.

Many sectors of the Scottish economy have experienced changes in response to the global economy, and international trends. Further changes can be anticipated and the planning system should recognise and respond positively to market requirements and other aspirations for the economy, for example, the move towards a knowledge-based economy. It should also be sufficiently flexible to respond to new challenges and unpredicted demands. Although the nature and pace of some of them cannot be forecast with certainty, many growing businesses will be accommodated in existing or expanded premises or on existing sites.

Planning authorities should:

Ensure that existing business locations are able to meet the anticipated changes in the economy and that they provide choice for a diverse range of economic developments. Provide for special sites, particularly those of national significance and those which support the knowledge-based economy. Respond positively to firm proposals for corporate headquarters. Support existing and new small businesses. Provide for development in small towns and rural areas;
Secure and support the delivery of sites for economic development in sustainable locations by identifying key locations that are highly accessible by public transport. Promote the re-use of previously developed sites and buildings in sustainable locations where these meet the requirements of particular sectors. Take account of the capability of information and communications technology (ICT) and the promotion of home-working to reduce the need to travel;
Safeguard and enhance the environment, by requiring that new development is of a high design quality and protecting the natural and built heritage;
Encourage a positive culture of engagement with business interests by promoting dialogue between all those involved with business development, the Enterprise Networks and Local Economic Forums.

The planning system has an important role to play in supporting a competitive Scotland by deciding planning applications for economic development in an efficient and consistent manner on the basis of positive and up-to-date development plans.

Contact info

Scottish Executive Planning Directorate
Graeme Purves (Assistant Chief Planner), tel. +44 131 2447533

Publication date

/11/2002

Article info
Organisation: Scottish Executive Planning Directorate

Links

More information on the Scottish Executive Planning Directorate More information on SPP 2: Economic Development

Document type

policy

Themes

Urban Policy > Economy knowledge & employment

Keywords

Urban economy