Moray Council's Planning and Regulatory Services Committee has approved updated Developer Obligations Planning Guidance.

The new framework ensures that developers provide financial contributions to mitigate the impact of new projects on essential local services, including schools, healthcare, transport, and community facilities.

The revised guidance replaces the previous 2020 version and has been updated to align with current national planning policy. The document also incorporates feedback gathered during a recent public consultation period.

One of the most significant updates concerns the calculation of education contributions. The new policy introduces a threshold whereby a school is considered "full" once it reaches 90% of its capacity, rather than 100%. This change is designed to prevent oversubscription and ensure adequate space for pupils as new developments are built.

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In addition to education, the guidance refreshes the contribution rates for: Healthcare and GP practices; Transport and road networks; Sports and community facilities; and Green spaces and town centre improvements.

The document also provides clearer definitions on when specific exemptions to these obligations may apply. Following approval, the Planning Guidance becomes a material consideration for all future planning applications assessed across Moray.

Councillor David Gordon, Chair of the Planning and Regulatory Services Committee, said: "This updated guidance makes it clear for developers what contributions are expected, while making sure our communities have adequate contributions towards the services they need.

"It balances supporting new development with protecting schools, GP practices, and transport networks from the inevitable extra pressure. It's fair, clear and helps Moray grow sustainably."