The Scottish Government has unveiled proposals to transform the way planning for homes and infrastructure projects is approached.

The 'Places, People and Planning' position statement sets out aspirations for a more effective system.

A consultation was held to help develop ideas for the statement. The exercise found widespread public interest in how to improve planning, resulting the statement containing an update on proposals for improving development planning, empowering communities and streamlining the planning process.

Results from a recent national survey by YoungScot also found many young people are keen to have a say in planning their local communities.

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Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said: "We want to take forward changes that make a real difference to planning in Scotland – ensuring we have a system that can deliver the quality homes, buildings and modern infrastructure we need to make great places in the future.

"I was delighted with the response to the consultation and that so many individuals and communities took the time to share their views. I am listening carefully to what people have to say about their experiences of the planning system – and how we can make it better.

"We need to strike a balance in addressing the many issues raised. It is crucial that planning helps drive forward inclusive growth by enabling high quality development in a way that involves local people as fully as possible."

The position statement and accompanying Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Report, which sets out the environmental impacts of the proposed changes, are open for consultation until 11 August.

(LM)