Planning Circulars in Scotland: What Are They and How Much Weight Do They Carry?

Scotland’s planning system is governed by legislation and the statutory development plan, but these are not the only documents that applicants, Planning Authorities and decision-makers may require to consider. Planning legislation can be detailed and technical. It may establish the legal framework for a procedure without explaining every aspect of how that procedure is intended … Read more

Certificates of Lawfulness in Scotland: Existing Use, Proposed Use and Section 150 Certificates

Many people assume that every development project requires planning permission. In reality, some forms of development can be carried out without planning permission, while some existing uses and developments may already be lawful even though planning permission was never obtained. In these situations, a Certificate of Lawfulness can provide formal confirmation of a property’s planning … Read more