Developers in the Highlands have been benefiting from a service provided by Highland Council planners which aims to make the planning process more efficient.

The Pre-Application Advice Service for Major Developments is a cross Council and public agency project led by the Planning and Development Service.

The Service has now reached the milestone of 100 pre-application advice packs issued to the development industry.

Planners are encouraged to engage in "early and effective" discussion with developers to better inform their subsequent planning applications for major projects such as housing developments of more than 50 houses, large shops and energy projects which generate more than 20mw of electricity.

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Advice is given on a range of issues including transport arrangements, design, sustainability and community engagement.

The Service was introduced in 2009 and has considered and provided advice on various developments proposed in the Highlands, including new tourism facilities and accommodation, major housing developments and renewable energy projects.

Councillor Thomas Prag, Chair of the Planning, Environment and Development Committee said: "People often feel the planning process can be long winded and unclear, so we wanted to find a way of helping applicants through the system. The Pre-Application Advice Service offers a great opportunity for the Council and the development industry to work closely together to help deliver better quality new developments, which are so important to our communities and help deliver sustainable economic growth.

"This shows how we are meeting the challenges of planning reform by providing a service which not only speeds things up but creates an environment where there can be a greater understanding and cooperation between the public and private sector and most importantly for our communities - getting the right partnerships in place to deliver better developments in the right places."

(IT)