Forward Scotland believes the Scottish Government should seek to:

• emphasise the need to ensure that sustainable development is placed at the heart of the national policy framework, with the long-term social, environmental and economic wellbeing of Scotland’s people the ultimate objective of all planning and housing policies
• ensure that planning policies and guidance are closely aligned to the principles of sustainable development in order to ensure that the proposed increase in housing supply is managed appropriately and results in the social, economic and environmental benefits outlined in the document
• focus not only on the energy performance of buildings, but on improving the ecological footprint and sustainability of the methods and materials used during construction and maintenance of both buildings and open spaces
• ensure that developers actively engage with communities as early as possible regarding potential developments, informing and empowering communities, and helping to reduce blockages in the planning process at a later stage

Forward Scotland welcomes the focus within the discussion document on contributing to the creation of sustainable, mixed communities and helping to meet the challenges of climate change and sustainable development. In order to realise the Scottish Government’s vision, sustainable development must be placed at the heart of the national policy framework, with the long-term social, environmental and economic wellbeing of Scotland’s people the ultimate objective of all housing and planning policies. 

Sustainable development by its very nature seeks to create the conditions whereby society can thrive. The environment will be protected and improved, the economy can grow and society will be pushed to greater equity.

Download Forward Scotland's response here:

Consultation response: Firm Foundations - The Future of Housing in Scotland

For further information, please contact Jenny Hogan.