National Scenic Areas

Comments on the proposed updating of National Scenic Areas, through amendment of the Planning, etc (Scotland) Bill.

Many of the critical land use changes which can affect landscape do not require planning permission. It is essential, therefore, to achieve the stated aims of NSAs, that an integrated management approach is taken which includes consideration of agricultural measures, e.g. under the Rural Development Plan for Scotland, and forestry measures and which includes working with all relevant public sector bodies. These should include Visit Scotland and Historic Scotland. The proposed reform of NSAs as it stands will not, on its own, deliver the desired result.