Three online consultations have been launched by the Highland Council to discuss planning and housing issues across the region.

A review of the council's main planning policy document, the Highland-wide Local Development Plan (HWLDP), is also included.

The HWLDP Main Issues Report is seeking views on updating the council's main policies for determining planning applications and shaping the future of the Highland area.

The report sets out issues and options for updating a range of planning policies, along with an updated vision and spatial strategy for Highland.

The strategy includes focusing development on existing settlements, support rural businesses and communities, and an emphasis on design and transport issues.

In addition, the council is seeking views on two other documents, the draft Onshore Wind Energy Supplementary Guidance and the Local Housing Strategy.


The draft Onshore Wind Energy Supplementary Guidance sets out suggested criteria for assessing proposals for wind energy development.

The Highland Housing Strategy will inform how the Highland Council and others tackle housing issues across different sectors, and how and where to direct investment in housing and related services.

The public consultation on these documents runs from 25 September to 18 December 2015.

The documents are being published through a new consultation portal, consult.highland.gov.uk

Councillor Audrey Sinclair said: "The Main Issues Report is a really important stage in updating our planning policies in Highland and setting a strong framework for growth. It paves the way for the provision of 20,000 new homes over the next 20 years, many of which will be affordable.

"We need to continue to direct the majority of growth towards our larger towns and villages, with vibrant and healthy town centres, but we also recognise how rural and fragile areas need to be supported.

"The Main Issues Report also looks at ways to reduce our carbon footprint, for example by exploring opportunities for renewable heat energy, and designing new development to make it easier to travel on foot or by bike."

As part of the consultation, a series of public events are being held across the Highland region to raise awareness.

To view details for the public exhibitions, visit here.

(LM/MH)