Western Isles Local Plan

Introduction

The Comhairle has completed preparation of the statutory Western Isles Local Plan. Working with the approved Western Isles Structure Plan (2003) the Local Plan forms the Development Plan for the area and sets out detailed land use policies and proposals to help guide future development and land use change in the islands.

Local Plan Process

The Local Plan is the result of a process including several stages of public consultation. In 2005 the Comhairle published the Finalised Western Isles Local Plan and a consultation period followed. Taking account of consultation representations including objections a set of Proposed Modifications to the Plan were approved.

In June 2007 a Local Plan Inquiry was undertaken to consider the unresolved objections to the Local Plan. The Inquiry Reporter’s findings and recommendations were published in August 2007. The reporter’s recommendations were generally accepted by the Comhairle and further Proposed Post Inquiry Modifications were approved to the Local Plan. Following consultation no further objections were received.

The Local Plan has been subject to a SEA and Appropriate Assessment.

Current Stage

On February Comhairle approved that the Plan proceed to adoption. Notice of intention to adopt the Western Isles Local Plan was advertised on the 27th March 2008 and the Plan together with associated documents was submitted to Scottish Ministers. The Local Plan and associated documents were placed in deposit locations.  Subject to no objections being received from Scottish Ministers the Comhairle will then conclude adoption of the Plan.

Further information

For further information about strategic environmental assessment please contact:
Diane MacPherson
Tele: 01870 602425
email: dmacpherson@cne-siar.gov.uk