LDP Evidence Report Rural Homes and Rural Development

This survey has now closed, 

The finalised Topic paper and  the results of the consultation can be seen under the Topic Paper banner.

This survey on questions associated with the Rural Homes and Rural Development Topic Pape  prepared to assist with the formulation of the Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan Evidence Report. has now closed

This topic paper is structured in response to National Planning Framework(NPF) 4 Policy 17 and Policy 29. The policy intent of NPF4 Policy 17 is that the planning system should encourage, promote and facilitate the delivery of more high quality, affordable and sustainable rural homes in the right locations. NPF4 Policy 29 policy intent is to encourage rural economic activity, innovation and diversification whilst ensuring that the distinctive character of the rural area and the service function of small towns, natural assets and cultural heritage are safeguarded and enhanced.

Local Development Plan spatial strategies should support the sustainability and prosperity of rural communities and economies.

This topic paper explores evidence relating to rural characteristics, population and socio-economic profiles, and rural deprivation. It also analyses planning application and housing completions in the countryside, areas of shrinking population and some key issues relating to rural service provision. The paper concludes that rural development should be directed to resilient locations and should aim to meet locational needs i.e. support land-based uses. No previously inhabited areas or fragile communities were identified in the topic paper for intervention through the local development plan and that site selection should be directed towards land adjacent to settlements rather than standalone countryside locations.

It is likely that this paper will be of particular interest to rural communities, and businesses, developers and landowners who may wish to consider development in the countryside.

If there are matters that you do not agree with relating to the information that we have looked at, then these are termed as "disputes". While most disputes made will be resolvable by modification of the topic paper, some will persist. If you make a dispute to this paper, and we cannot agree a solution then the dispute will be referred to a Reporter in the Scottish Government Directorate of Planning and Environmental Appeals in the Spring of 2025. Otherwise comments that you may make to this paper will be analysed and where possible resolution sought before consideration by Aberdeenshire Council, probably in January 2025.

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WHILE WE DO NOT INTEND TO PUBLISH THE INDIVIDUAL SUBMISSION MADE, THEY WILL BECOME PART OF THE PUBLIC RECORD. ALL UNRESOLVED DISPUTES WILL BE PUBLISHED ON THE INTERNET AS PART OF THE GATECHECK EXAMINATION.