Our response to the new National Planning Framework 4 draft

Culture Counts welcomes the revised draft of National Planning Framework 4, published by Minister for Public Finance, Planning and Community Wealth, Tom Arthur MSP and the Scottish Government on 8 November 2022.

Culture and creativity are threaded throughout the document, impacting wider policies including:

·         Just Transition

·         Conserving and recycling assets

·         Local living

·         Rebalanced development

Having received minimal consideration in the previous National Planning Framework, Culture and creativity now have a specific set of policies, intended to:

“Encourage, promote and facilitate development which reflects our diverse culture and creativity, and to support our culture and creative industries”.

NPF4 is a clear example of the Culture Sector’s ability to contribute to cross-policy outcomes at the highest level. The framework also acknowledges the role of the Culture Sector in fostering connection and belonging through the creation of vibrant, locally distinct places.

You can read the new draft of NPF4 here

Background to NPF4

The National Planning Framework (NPF) is a long term plan for Scotland that sets out where development and infrastructure is needed.

Scotland’s fourth National Planning Framework (NPF4) will be a long term plan looking to 2045, that will guide spatial development, set out national planning policies, designate national developments and highlight regional spatial priorities.

In 2019, Culture Counts convened a National Planning Framework cultural working group comprised of eighteen cultural organisations from across the UK. A small group of representatives met with the National Planning Framework 4 team to discuss cultural themes; including economic contribution, attractions and tourism, place standard and human requirements for wellbeing, agent of change, cultural buildings, vibrancy-day and night-time economy.

Based on the outcomes of this working group and the contributions of our Core Members, Culture Counts submitted a response to the Government’s call for evidence on the NPF4 bill. We are pleased to see many of those recommendations included in this draft.