Margaret Smith responds to West Edinburgh Planning Framework

10/3/07

Margaret Smith MSP has responded to the West Edinburgh Planning Framework and has questioned the Deputy Communities Minister in Holyrood about increased community involvement in its future progress. The Framework acknowledges the important, strategic part West Edinburgh plays in the country’s economy and covers a number of issues including the expansion of the Airport, the Royal Highland Show move, loss of the Green Belt and new public transport and road links.

Margaret Smith said, “This is an important document as it sets out a framework under which planning decisions about the area of West Edinburgh from the Gyle to Newbridge will be taken. I am concerned that it concentrates too much on the needs and rights of big businesses such as BAA and the Royal Bank and not enough on the future of local communities.”

Margaret:

· Backs the Royal Highland Show move but stresses the need to work with local residents to reduce its impact on the community.

· Calls for ongoing monitoring of air traffic passenger numbers rather than a blanket acceptance of the UK Government’s figures to guard against unnecessary airport expansion and unsustainable growth

· Supports a moratorium on release of Green Belt land for international business development until the previously agreed date of 2015.

· Highlights the need for regeneration in Newbridge

· Asks that the impact of the Framework on local villages be taken into account.