Landscape, planning and development

Scotland's landscapes underpin our economy and attractiveness as a place to live and do business. Planners and developers have a big role in helping to protect and enhance this asset.

Crucially, the decisions we make about developments such as windfarms, houses and roads, and how we respond to climate change, continues to alter our landscapes and the way we experience them. This change can be positive, if it is well planned and well informed.

Planning authorities have a responsibility to consider how landscapes in their area should be safeguarded and enhanced through plans and strategies. There are a various ways in which planning authorities can help protect and enhance landscapes, guided by national and Scottish Natural Heritage policy and guidance.

Developers have a key role to play in identifying and addressing impacts on landscapes as they develop their proposals, and by demonstrating good practice in fitting new development into the landscape. A range of tools and techniques are available to guide this work.