Residents asked for views on the future of Scone

A questionnaire being sent to every household in Scone will give residents their say on future development in the village.

The questionnaire outlines possible areas for development in Scone and asks residents for their opinions.

The consultation will help the Council update the Perth Area Local Plan, which will set out a blueprint for the future of the area.

The Council is currently reviewing the Perth Area Local Plan and published a Draft Plan at the beginning of 2005. The Draft plan did not identify any additional housing land in Scone other than that which already had consent at Balgarvie Farm, but it did indicate that land to the north of Scone had long term development potential (beyond 2020).

Increased government population projections which are roughly 3% above the figures used in the Draft Plan mean that additional housing sites now need to be identified in the Perth area. The Council is considering identifying land for 300 houses (not 700 as has been incorrectly reported) to the north of Scone to be developed before 2020 to meet part of the requirement.

Once the Finalised Plan is published residents will still have an opportunity to object. The procedure for doing this will be explained at the time of the publication of the Plan.

Local member, Councillor Lewis Simpson, said: “Nothing has been decided yet and so this is the chance for people to have their say on how their village will develop.

“Development proposals currently being speculated about do not necessarily reflect what the Council will eventually agree to. Those decisions lie with elected members of the Council, who will take into account the views of the people who live in the village.

"The people of Scone now have an opportunity to give the Council their opinions, and I think it is vital that everyone takes this chance. I would urge all residents to return their forms before the deadline.”

As well as the questionnaire there will also be an exhibition in Scone Library during the week 19-24 March, which will be manned by Council officers at certain times (see attachment for exact times). The officers will be able to advise residents and answer any questions they may have.

Questionnaires will be sent out the week beginning Monday 12 March along with a pre-paid return envelope. They should be sent back to the Council by 14 April.

People who wish to make additional comments should email PerthLocalPlan@pkc.gov.uk