As MSPs prepare to debate Scotland’s planning system at Holyrood later today, the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) has said the forthcoming Planning Bill could provide the opportunity to solve the housing crisis and build better communities.

The debate follows the launch of keenly-awaited proposals for transforming the planning system and the accompanying Places, People and Planning consultation earlier this month.

The SFHA has welcomed the broad thrust of the proposals which aim to provide more homes and increase community participation in the planning system.

David Stewart, SFHA policy lead, said: “The SFHA welcomes the launch of the planning consultation, as we would like to see a system that increases housing supply and builds better communities.

“We are pleased that the White Paper contains a strong focus on building more homes, commitment to an infrastructure first approach to development, and promotes zoned housing land, with simplified planning zones for identified areas where housing should be developed.

“We also welcome the commitment to make a stronger link between planning and the development of sites granted permission, as too often areas zoned for development either remain undeveloped due to constraints, while housing associations experience sites passing between a number of owners and land value increases without any homes being built. Proposals to increase the period of Local Plans to 10 years are also good news as this will provide certainty for housing associations planning new homes for the medium to long-term.

“However, there are several proposals that we think need more consideration and discussion. While increasing community involvement in planning is good news, proposals to make a closer link between community and local development plans will only work if all parts of the community participate in the process. The views of people who need homes in a community are as important as those of existing residents whose housing needs are met and this is especially important at a time when there is a real shortage of quality affordable homes.

“We will be gathering our members’ views and look forward to responding to the consultation as well as working with the Scottish Government and partners to shape the planning system in order to deliver the affordable housing that Scotland desperately needs.”