Launched in October 2023, the register asks people to provide basic information around their requirements and what type of plot they are looking for. 

Since its introduction, the Self-Build Register has had more than 40 responses, with the feedback helping council officers to revisit some of the questions to ensure they are capturing key information for services such as Planning Policy and Housing. 

While the register will not result in an offer of land being made, Aberdeenshire Council will use this information to inform policy and future land use. 

You can access the register here.

The register was created considering the Scottish Government’s desire to see self-build homes becoming a more mainstream housing option. 

As such, the Planning (Scotland) Act 2019 (Section 16E) now requires local planning authorities to prepare, maintain and publish a list of anyone with the intention of acquiring land for self-build housing across the planning authority’s area. 

The council will then have a duty to consider this information when preparing the next Local Development Plan. 

Alongside the register, Aberdeenshire Council has created a self-build guide which gives people basic information about self-building and signposts to more in-depth information.

Self-building is a rewarding but complex process, so information provided is just a starting point and the council advises that professional advice is sought.