Ahead of a Planning Aid for Scotland (PAS) reception in the Scottish Parliament last night, Minister for Local Government and Planning, Aileen Campbell MSP, highlighted the organisation’s contribution towards community engagement and sustainable economic growth.

Minister for Local Government and Planning, Aileen Campbell MSP said: "I am delighted to thank Planning Aid for Scotland’s staff and volunteers for their hard work and on-going commitment.

"Meaningful community engagement is also important to me, and Planning Aid for Scotland and its volunteers do tremendous work in raising awareness of planning matters across Scotland and helping all communities engage with planning."

Planning Aid for Scotland were awarded Investing in Volunteers accreditation by the awarding body, Volunteer Development Scotland, at this evening’s reception in the Scottish Parliament, hosted by David McLetchie MSP.

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The renewal of Investing in Volunteers status serves to highlight the unique contribution of the planning profession to volunteering – over 15% of planning professionals in Scotland now give their time and professional skills as PAS Volunteers.

George Thomson, CEO of Volunteer Development Scotland added: "Planning Aid for Scotland was the first of its kind in the UK to achieve the Investing in Volunteers Award for its quality in working with volunteers, and I’m delighted 3 years later to congratulate it for achieving another milestone in renewing it.

"Planning Aid for Scotland has shown that, when it comes to volunteering, people can give not only their time, but also their professional skills for benefit of the wider community. I’m only too pleased to see the way in which volunteering is centre stage in its work."

PAS Chief Executive, Petra Biberbach said: "I’m delighted that PAS has achieved Investing In Volunteers status for the second time in a row. Volunteering is the vital ingredient in all our work. It is very clear to us that the time and resources we invest in our volunteers is the key to Planning Aid for Scotland’s success."

Planning Minister, Aileen Campbell MSP also highlighted Planning Aid for Scotland’s contribution not simply to individuals and community groups, but also to the wider community, including small businesses and business start-ups: "Planning is integral to driving Scotland’s economy, creating the right environment for people to live and for business to flourish, and has a vital role to play in fulfilling the Scottish Government’s purpose to increase sustainable economic growth."

(GK)