New planning controls on hill tracks

New planning controls on hill tracks 24/8/14

The Scottish countryside will receive extra protection from hill and moor tracks through new planning controls, Planning Minister Derek Mackay has announced.

At present estate owners can cut new roads into the moor or hillsides without planning permission, if it is for agriculture or forestry purposes.

Now they will be required to give “prior notification” to local councils which will consider if the proposed tracks would scar the environment, affect drainage, or cause damage.

It is not a formal planning application though the council could intervene to ensure that design, siting and appearance are acceptable.

Planning Minister Derek Mackay said: “Without proper controls and effective enforcement measures, the construction of hilltracks can damage our environment.

“Some hill tracks can undercut the hillside and lead to side banks collapsing and hill tracks can cause damage to wild animal habitat.

“In contrast well-constructed tracks can minimise negative impacts on the environment, and in the moorlands can often prevent damage to ground nesting birds and their eggs.

“That’s why it’s important that planning policy strikes the right balance between meeting the needs of rural businesses but also it protects Scotland’s environment, amenity and heritage.

“These new controls will ask planning authorities to weigh up proposals and consider all aspects of where the hill tracks will be built, while at the same time allowing work that does not have an adverse impact to proceed with minimal delay or costs.”