Scotland round-up: Edinburgh local development, vacant land decreases

Decision on Edinburgh local development plan deferred

Discussion and a vote on the second version of the Scottish capital’s Local Development Plan (LDP2) originally expected later this month (February) has been deferred until mid-May.

The Planner

Derelict and vacant land falls by 1.2 per cent

The total amount of derelict and urban vacant land in Scotland decreased by 129 hectares, or 1.2 per cent, from the previous year to 10,874 hectares in 2014, latest statistics show.

Scottish Government

Plans for 323 new homes backed by city councillors

Plans to create 323 new homes on the site of Aberdeen’s former Royal Cornhill Hospital have been supported by Aberdeen city councillors. Meanwhile, during a busy week for the city, the company that runs its district heating scheme has been awarded a £1 million grant to extend the network. And in a separate move, work has finally started on the £745 million Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route/Balmedie-Tipperty road scheme.

Aberdeen City Council and the Scottish Government  

Sandy Knowe wind farm refused

Energy minister Fergus Ewing has refused planning consent for the proposed 30-turbine Sandy Knowe wind farm in Dumfries and Galloway Council’s planning area because of landscape concerns.

Scottish Government

Luxury hotel complex plan for Paisley town centre

A proposal for a £3.5 million luxury hotel and business development in Paisley, involving the transformation of two historic buildings, has been submitted to Renfrewshire Council.

The Scotsman

Islanders vote to buy Barvas Estate on Lewis

Islanders on Lewis have voted to buy a 17.8-hectare Hebridean estate, which includes the only place in the UK where baby gannets are slaughtered for food.

The Sctosman