Caithness and Sutherland Proposed Local Development Plan

A new document identifying potential future developments across Caithness and Sutherland has been published for consultation by Highland Council.

The Proposed Caithness and Sutherland Local Development Plan, also known as CaSPlan, was published on 22 January 2016 for an 8 week consultation. The Council has been working closely with partner organisations and communities to work out how best this part of the Highlands should grow. This Proposed Plan has now been approved by Council and is being opened up for public comment for the last time to see what people think.

People who live within 30 metres of land identified in the plan as suitable for future development are receiving a neighbour notification letter through the post.

David Cowie of the Development Plans Team explains: “Identifying a site for development in the plan confirms the principle of development happening on that site. Any development proposed for a site will still have to submit a planning application and the planning application will be consulted on separately. Typically sites are actually developed by either the landowner or a developer, in most cases it won’t be the Council."

People who have commented on earlier stages of the plan are also being contacted by email or letter.

It is important that everyone who wishes to comment on the plan does so as this will be the final opportunity to have your say.

David Cowie said: “If you want to ‘object’ to a proposed development site being included in the Plan you must tell us now and clearly state your reasons for objecting. Equally if you would like to see a development site remain in the plan we would also like to hear from you too.”

The proposed local development plan is on consultation from 22nd January until midday 18th March 2016. The easiest way to view the plan and make any comments is online at consult.highland.gov.uk. It can also be viewed at public and mobile libraries and the Council’s Service Points within the Plan area and in Tain, and at planning offices in Wick (Caithness House), Golspie (Drummuie Offices) and Inverness (Council HQ).

Anyone who wishes to make any comments should follow the instructions on this website. Any issues regarding access or use of the website (for example if you cannot access the internet) should be directed to the Development Plans Team on 01349 886608, who will provide an alternative method for submitting comments.