The Planning Committee of the City of Edinburgh Council met to discuss several significant topics, including the City Plan 2030 and the strategic housing investment plan. Key decisions were made regarding the adoption of the City Plan 2030 and the use of affordable housing commuted sums on a citywide basis for the financial year 2024/25.

City Plan 2030

The committee discussed the City Plan 2030 Report of Examination and Resolution to Adopt. The plan includes policies on housing, climate, and student accommodation, with a focus on brownfield development and 35% affordable housing. The committee accepted the reporter's recommendations to modify the plan, ensuring compliance with the National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4). The Green Group withdrew their amendment, which sought to challenge some of the reporter's recommendations, due to potential legal risks and delays. The Conservative Group's addendum, highlighting the transitional nature of the plan and the need for future updates, was accepted.

Strategic Housing Investment Plan (SHIP) Update

The committee considered the update on the Strategic Housing Investment Plan for 2024-2028/2029, referred from the Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Committee. Due to a significant reduction in affordable housing grant funding from the Scottish Government, the committee approved the use of affordable housing commuted sums on a citywide basis for the financial year 2024/25. This temporary measure aims to address the funding gap and enable the approval of new affordable homes. The committee emphasized the need for transparency and regular reporting on the use of these funds.

Business Bulletin

The Business Bulletin provided updates on planning performance, building standards, planning appeals, the Seafield draft master plan, and the George Cinema. The committee noted the progress and ongoing efforts in these areas.

Rolling Actions Log and Work Programme

The committee reviewed the Rolling Actions Log and the Work Programme, noting the status of various actions and upcoming reports. The committee discussed the need for timely updates and coordination between different committees and stakeholders.

Deputations

The committee heard a deputation from Homes for Scotland regarding the City Plan 2030. Homes for Scotland expressed concerns about the housing emergency and the need for a higher minimum all-tenure land requirement. They proposed the creation of a developer forum focused on housing delivery and the use of guidance on bringing forward unallocated windfall sites.

The meeting highlighted the committee's commitment to addressing housing needs, ensuring sustainable development, and maintaining transparency and accountability in the planning process.