"20 minute neighbourhood" planning consultation opens

How the planning system can support healthy, thriving and connected communities is the theme of a consultation launched today by the Scottish Government.

As part of National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4), a policy document that all local authorities in Scotland have to follow when considering planning applications, draft guidance has been prepared on the local living and 20 minute neighbourhood concepts contained in NPF4. These support people to meet the majority of their daily needs within a reasonable distance of their home, preferably through active travel or by using public transport.

The concepts will help the planning system to deliver sustainable and resilient places, deliver net zero ambitions, reduce social isolation, promote active travel, and provide access to green space. Policy outcomes it promotes are that:

• Places are planned to improve local living in a way that reflects local circumstances.
• A network of high quality, accessible, mixed use neighbourhoods are created which support health and wellbeing, reduce inequalities and are resilient to the effects of climate change.
• New and existing communities are planned together with homes and the key local infrastructure including schools, community centres, local shops, green spaces, health and social care, digital, and sustainable transport links.

Launching the consultation, Planning Minister Joe FitzPatrick commented: "Local living and 20 minute neighbourhood policies will deliver many longstanding ambitions for the planning system by supporting thriving communities and providing multiple benefits for people and the environment. 

"We want to help people to meet their daily needs within a reasonable distance of their homes, while helping them to live healthier lives and contributing towards the achievement of our net zero targets.

"We can really get to the heart of what matters to people by working with them to shape our towns and communities of the future."

Access the consultation here. The deadline for responding is Thursday 20 July.