Cultybraggan Camp
4.5.6 Near Comrie, the former Cultybraggan Camp is identified in the
adopted LDP as existing employment land. In its pre-MIR submission,
the Comrie Development Trust asked for additional flexibility to allow
community and employment uses at the former Camp. A change to
Mixed Uses was sought.
4.5.7 To meet this need, the Council’s preferred option would be to
create a Simplified Planning Zone (SPZ) offering more flexibility to help
existing businesses to grow and adapt in a sustainable way as well as
encouraging new businesses to locate at the former Camp. It would
also help further develop the character of the site, which is unique in
the area.
4.5.8 A SPZ is a statutory tool requiring the preparation of a Simplified
Planning Zone Scheme. This removes the need to apply for planning
permission for certain types of development, so long as the
development complies with the details and guidance set out in the
Scheme. The SPZ Scheme deals with the planning issues ‘up front’ and
confirms what types of development, and how much, is allowed. It
offers savings in time, money and effort by removing the need for
repetitive planning applications, covering the same range of planning
issues. It can also be a promotional tool offering certainty on the types
of developments that would be permitted, encouraging more
investment to strengthen the offering within the former Camp. Once
adopted, it lasts for 10 years.
4.5.9 Because it is a statutory tool, the Local Authority would prepare
the SPZ Scheme with input from Key Agencies, the Comrie Development Trust and the local community. There would be preparatory work and two rounds of consultation, which will require time and financial commitment.
4.5.10 The former camp has several listed buildings, some of which are Category A. Also, some of the buildings on the site are on the Buildings at Risk register. The need to preserve and enhance the former Camp’s historic environment will need to be considered. The SPZ would not remove the need for applications for listed building consent, building warrant etc.