§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what powers he has to call in any planning application which relates to or includes the change of use of playing fields; what steps may be taken by the local community and by the district council to ensure that zoning for recreational purposes in the urban area local plans and the district local plans is adhered to; what powers are enjoyed by regional councils in relation to their role as strategic planning authorities as distinct from their role as property owners; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. StewartMy right hon. Friend is empowered by section 32 of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1972 to call in any planning application for his own determination. These powers are exercised sparingly.
As far as district and community interests are concerned, section 18A of the 1972 Act provides that any planning authority must determine planning applications in accordance with the relevant development plans unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Sections 10 and 26 also provide that district authorities must take into account any representations made in their preparation of local plans and in their determining of particular planning applications.
As far as regional interests are concerned, sections 5 to 8 of the 1972 Act provide powers for the preparation of structure plans by the relevant planning authorities, and for their approval by the Secretary of State. Similarly, section 179 of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 provides such regional authorities with powers to call in planning applications which are contrary to their approved structure plans or which raise major planning issues of general significance to the districts in question.