A package of measures to further reform planning in Scotland has been announced.

Agreement was reached on the new reforms following discussions between Local Government Minister Derek Mackay, Cosla leaders and other key stakeholders.

Mr Mackay has announced measures to speed up the updating and processing of local development plans and to streamline the planning system.

The measure will also see an extension of the number of developments that do not need to submit planning applications.

Planning fees are to increase by 20% - still lower than in England and Wales.

The increase is expected to generate between £4 - £5m to support the work of planning authorities.

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One-off funding of £673,000 will be made available for local authorities to help deal with wind turbine applications.

£55,000 additional funding has also been confirmed as Planning Aid for Scotland.

This is aimed at increasing young people’s involvement in planning and funding.

Planning Minister Derek Mackay said: "Following discussions with stakeholders and further meetings, a commitment around improved performance has been reached, in that context new resources through planning fees will help planning authorities deliver.

"The increase is designed to allow authorities to improve performance, while keeping overall planning fees in Scotland lower than the English equivalent. I have also announced the formation of a high-level group with COSLA to look at driving the performance improvement agenda to ensure that higher planning fees result in better performance.

"We know that some planning authorities are experiencing particularly high volumes of applications for wind turbines, and the extra funding being announced today will help by supporting assessment, bringing in expertise, or more staff, to deal with the applications.

"I am now looking forward to working with local authorities across Scotland to deliver a planning service that drives the sustainable economic growth for Scotland that we all want to see."

(IT)