§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what assessment his Department has made of the advantages of giving additional weight to environmental impact in determining planning restrictions on agricultural holdings. [3365]
§ Mr. KynochThe Scottish Office has not made any specific assessment of the weight which should be given to environmental impact in relation to agricultural holdings. Each planning application has to be considered on its own merits, taking account of the provisions of the148W development plan and all other material considerations, including environmental impact. It is for the planning authority determining the application to decide what weight to give to particular considerations. However, the Government recognise the importance of protecting the environmental qualities of rural areas and this principle is acknowledged in current planning guidance.
§ Mr. JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to review planning guidance on agricultural and other dwellings in the countryside in order to give greater weight to environmental and social sustainability; and if he will make a statement. [3379]
§ Mr. KynochThe Scottish Office is presently drafting a new national planning policy guideline on rural development which should be issued for consultation early in 1997. Publication of this NPPG will fulfil a commitment in the White Paper "Rural Scotland: People, Prosperity and Partnership", Cm 3041, that the Government would produce guidance intended to encourage positive and sustainable provision for employment and community purposes using the development plan and development control systems.