The Planning Committee of the City of Edinburgh Council convened on Wednesday, 26 June 2024, to discuss several significant items, including the City Plan 2030 supplementary guidance on developer contributions and infrastructure delivery, and the annual report on the Pre-Application Advice Service. The committee also debated a motion regarding the Development Management Sub-Committee protocol.

City Plan 2030 Supplementary Guidance

The committee reviewed the City Plan 2030 supplementary guidance on developer contributions and infrastructure delivery. David Gibbons presented the report, seeking approval to consult on the draft over an eight-week period. The supplementary guidance supports Policy Infrastructure 3 and covers education, transport, healthcare, and blue-green infrastructure. The committee approved the consultation draft, with minor corrections to be made before publication.

Councillor Jones raised a specific query about the naming of Bruntston School, which was clarified to be New Bruntston. Councillor Thornley expressed concerns about the timely delivery of infrastructure in West Edinburgh, to which officers responded by emphasizing the principle of infrastructure first while balancing development viability.

Annual Report on the Pre-Application Advice Service

The committee discussed the annual report on the Pre-Application Advice Service. Lewis McWilliam and Claire McDonald presented the report, highlighting the positive feedback received and proposing changes to streamline the service. The committee approved the removal of the pre-position discussion service and the adjustment of target times for issuing advice letters.

Councillor Osler questioned the feasibility of the new target times, and officers assured that the changes were realistic due to the ongoing nature of the advice process. Councillor Booth inquired about the accessibility of generic advice for householders, and officers committed to considering feedback from householder applicants and their agents.

Motion on Development Management Sub-Committee Protocol

Councillor Matthew Matus-Cuelo introduced a motion to adapt the Development Management Sub-Committee protocol, aiming to improve the efficiency and accessibility of meetings. The motion included suggestions such as holding private briefings on the day of the meeting and considering family-friendly working practices. The motion was met with an amendment from Councillor Osler, proposing a workshop to discuss the changes in detail.

Councillor Booth supported the motion with the amendment as an addendum, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and practical considerations. However, the committee ultimately voted in favour of the amendment, opting for a workshop to explore the proposed changes further.

The meeting concluded with the committee agreeing to the proposed changes and consultations, ensuring that the planning processes continue to evolve and improve.