SEBG News
Consultation is "Common Sense" Approach
27th April 2006
Scotland’s leading rural Estates today (Thursday) appealed for greater
consultation with rural communities to develop positive and constructive
relationships particularly when it comes to planning and development.
The call was made at the Scottish Estates Business Group (SEBG) Half Year Meeting held in Edinburgh. The meeting of landowners, farmers and managers, themed “Connecting with Communities”, was addressed by Johann Lamont MSP, Deputy Minister for Communities, who set out the approach of the Executive to involving communities in local developments.
SEBG Chairman, the Duke of Roxburghe, said: “Estates are themselves part of communities and strive to foster good relationships with those who live and work within their communities. In many cases estates have a long term interest in ensuring that developments meet the needs of local people as well as those who wish to live and work in rural areas. Where planning obstacles can be overcome, landowners can play an important part in the provision of affordable housing and the Group looks forward to assisting the Executive in its delivery of affordable housing in rural areas to meet the local need.
“Developments can act as a significant stimulus to the rural economy by providing housing and job opportunities and other economic benefits and thereby assist in sustaining rural communities. The new planning legislation being introduced by the Scottish Executive will mean that consultation with affected parties, including local communities, is given far more emphasis.
“In planning developments it is sound practice and can be more productive if proper consultation is undertaken, and ensures each development is well-designed, well-considered and properly scrutinised before planning permission is sought.
“Progressive estates already work closely with the communities of which they are an important part and play a significant role in the economic fabric of those areas. Effective consultation inviting genuine participation from communities of interest can achieve positive results and overcome some of the NIMBY resistance often encountered with development proposals where a lack of understanding and involvement can cause concern.”
Delegates also heard from John Varley of Clinton Devon Estates and architect John Thompson who both gave practical views and advice on building relationships and communicating with communities.
For further information contact:
Ramsay Smith at Media House on 07788 414856 or
Polly McPherson at SEBG 07810 891831.
SEBG represents a group of progressive land-based estates with significant agricultural and rural business interests. It aims to promote a modern business approach in the management of Scotland's land resource in ways which deliver social, economic and environmental benefits. The Group seeks to secure a sustainable and prosperous future for rural areas and its members work hard across Scotland to stimulate enterprise and economic development.
