The Highland Council is seeking input on the development of new Biodiversity Planning Guidance to support the implementation of cross-cutting biodiversity policies as set out in National Planning Framework 4.

The Guidance aims to provide clarity and certainty for developers on what information is required to demonstrate the conservation, restoration, and enhancement of biodiversity and will enable the Planning Authority to take a consistent, proportionate, and balanced approach to decision making.

Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans is encouraging people to pass on their views.  He said: "We are looking for comments on the Guidance that will play an important role in enabling biodiversity to be conserved, restored and enhanced.

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"We recognise that specialist in-house ecological advice will not be readily available for the majority of applications, so this Guidance will provide that essential support."

He added: "By implementing the Biodiversity Planning Guidance to secure positive effects for biodiversity, as required by the Planning (Scotland) Act 2019 and policies of NPF4), the Council will make a significant and meaningful contribution to Net Zero and nature restoration targets."

The consultation closes on the 23 February 2024. Comments can be submitted via the Council's online portal (external link)

All comments received will be considered and feedback on the consultation along with an updated Biodiversity Planning Guidance will be presented to members at a future Economy and Infrastructure Committee.