Planning Advice Note: Pan 72: Housing in the Countryside

Planning Advice Note Housing in the Countryside

Policy framework

Guidance and advice

Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) 3 Planning for Housing and SPP 15 (revised) Planning for Rural Development recognise that changes in the rural economy require new development. Diversification of the rural economy is also of importance and PAN 73 on Rural Diversification concentrates on this issue.

Policy in SPP 3 Planning for Housing anticipates that most new housing will be located in towns and villages, but given the major changes in farming and the rural economy, it is expected that new housing out with existing settlements may have a greater part to play in economic regeneration in rural areas.

SPP 15 Planning for Rural Development advances policy in respect of small-scale rural housing developments, including clusters and groups in close proximity to settlements, replacement housing, plots on which to build individually designed homes and holiday homes.

The requirement for additional housing in an area should reflect not only local needs including affordable housing, but also provide for second and holiday homes where there is demonstrable demand.

Together, the guidance and advice indicates that the amount and location of housing that can be developed in rural areas is determined by a number of factors. These include:

Context - Fit in the landscape.
Identity - Design details which reflect the local character, as well as an increased awareness of energy efficiency linked to design standards.
Connection - Proximity to services, e.g. schools, shops (ideally within walking or cycling distance), ease of access (from an existing road and foot path and to a rail station or bus route); drainage and sewerage capacity (from combined septic tanks or links to public systems).

Overall, new developments in the countryside, if properly planned, sited and designed, contribute to the quality of a landscape.

Designing Places

Designing Places (2001) sets out clear national planning policy support for higher design standards, and it is important that these are carried forward throughout Scotland. The aim is to improve the quality of the environment for everyone. There are six key qualities identified in Designing Places which make a successful place. These qualities are as relevant to the countryside as they are to towns and cities. They are concerned with the creation of place, and how it serves the needs of its inhabitants for work and leisure.

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Distinctive Vaila Shore Base, Shetland The success of a place often depends on maintaining its distinctiveness. Development which does not undermine the identity of rural areas should be supported.
Safe & pleasant Barn O'Braco, Aberdeenshire These qualities are seen by many as essential to countryside living. People often move to the countryside for a healthier and less frenetic lifestyle.
Easy to get around Manor Valley, Scottish Borders Countryside dwellers rely on good accessibility to conduct their day-to-day lives. The reality of life in many rural areas requires the use of a private car.
Welcoming Kincardine O'Neil, Aberdeenshire Making development welcoming is important, especially in the layout of new houses on the edge of settlements and at the gateways or entrances to villages.
Adaptable Layout plans for adaptable space This is about recognising changing patterns of use where appropriate, as well as allowing people to easily adapt their homes as their needs change with time.
Resource efficient North Uist, Western Isles Careful siting will not only enhance the landscape but can also bring benefits by utilising current infrastructure and services, maximising passive solar gain and reducing energy consumption through avoiding extremes of weather. Also, using locally sourced materials may be more sustainable and better suited to the local natural and built environments.