A proposal to simplify planning rules to boost business growth in Peterhead is being put to an Aberdeenshire Council committee next week
A simplified planning zone (SPZ) has been proposed for Peterhead South, at the northern gateway to Energetica, a 30-mile development corridor stretching from Aberdeen to Peterhead.
The SPZ would remove the need to apply for planning permission for commercial development that complies with the SPZ scheme within a clear boundary. There would only be a requirement to notify Aberdeenshire Council of any development proposals as well as when work commences and completes.
The initiative is designed to strengthen the town’s position as a key strategic investment location, complementing works aimed at regenerating the town centre.
The duration of the SPZ would be ten years from its adoption, with monitoring and review on an annual basis.
James Welsh, Energetica development manager, said: “The Energetica corridor is a strategic growth area and a target location for inward investment. Aberdeenshire Council is committed to creating conditions to support and encourage private sector investment. As the region looks to diversify during a challenging period for the local economy we are investigating innovative solutions such as simplified planning to support that aim.
“The introduction of a simplified planning zone in Peterhead has the potential to bring time and cost savings for investors, streamlining the process of getting their projects off the ground without a loss in development quality.”
The report will go to Aberdeenshire Council’s infrastructure services committee on Thursday, 2 February.
