The Highland Council has launched a public consultation on the Main Issues Report which will be used to inform the preparation of the Inner Moray Firth Local Development Plan.

The consultation will last for 12 weeks and follows the lead set by the Highland-wide Local Development Plan to address local issues.

The Main Issues Report sets out a number of initial options for where development should and should not occur within the Inner Moray Firth area and how to address a number of other issues affecting the area.

It includes a number of sites submitted for consideration by communities, landowners and developers during the Council’s “Call for Sites” exercise undertaken in early 2011.

You can find out more and get involved in shaping your community by coming along to one of 34 public exhibitions any time between 2.00pm and 6.30pm.


Separate round table discussions are also being held on the same evening in the settlements listed below. If you wish to attend any of these evening events please contact us on 01463 702259 for details of time and venue. Please also let us know if you have any accessibility issues such as the need for disabled access to a venue or if you would like to request a large print copy of the Plan.

Stuart Black, Director of Planning and Development said: "It is vital that a new plan is produced for the Inner Moray Firth to help shape the future conditions for balanced and sustainable economic growth in our communities. The consultation is a key chance for everyone to put forward their views on how they would like their community to develop over the next 20 years."

The Main Issues Report is available to read at online at www.highland.gov.uk. It is also available at every public library, Highland Council Service Point, area Planning & Building Standards office within the Inner Moray Firth area and at Council Headquarters, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness.

You will also be able to keep up to date with discussion at events and get involved in the discussion by following us on Twitter where our username is @highlanddevplan.

The first public exhibition will take place on 16th April at Croy Public Hall with a further thirty three taking place up until Thursday 28th June 2012. Planning officials will be on hand to discuss any issues, and gather feedback at each of the sessions.

(GK)