Scottish Parliament e-Brief
Issue 76, 23rd July 2001
SECTION 1 - BUSINESS THIS WEEK
Parliament is in recess.
SECTION 2 - NEWS
NEW ARRANGEMENTS FOR MOBILE PHONE MASTS
New strict regulations for mobile phone masts come into force today which will mean all ground-based masts will require planning permission. The range of apparatus that can be installed on buildings without operators having to apply for planning permission will also be greatly restricted.
The regulations are not retrospective but they will apply to all new developments begun after midnight on Sunday.
Deputy Transport and Planning Minister Lewis Macdonald today announced that an order has been laid before the Scottish Parliament detailing the transitional arrangements which will apply. This action has been taken to ensure consistency across Scotland.
The Order states that developments which have already started under current permitted development rights will have to be completed within two weeks. Where work on the ground has not already begun, the new regulations apply immediately.
Mr Macdonald said:
"Mobile phone operators have pledged to consult fully on future development and these arrangements will ensure that only those which can be completed within 14 days will continue to come under the existing permitted development arrangements.
"The new planning controls will give more say to planning authorities and the public and ensure that masts can not simply spring up around the country with no thought for the surrounding countryside or communities."
Details of the new regulations for mobile phone masts can be found on the Scottish Executive website at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/news/2001/06/se1534.asp
Minister for Tourism, Alasdair Morrison, has launched a unique Festival to help boost visitor numbers and put Scotland’s world-class Autumn sporting calendar in the premier league of visitor attractions.
In a unique sporting collaboration, top sporting events postponed because of the foot and mouth restrictions, have been brought together in an Autumn sporting bonanza. Running from 20-27 September, the Festival includes the Scotland v Ireland Six Nations Rugby International and the Ayr Gold Cup.
Mr Morrison said:
"The Scottish Sporting Festival will create a week long programme of sporting excitement. This is an excellent example of business collaboration. Sporting organisations are pulling together to recover from the knock-on effects of Foot and Mouth Disease and provide a new focus for sports enthusiasts from around the world.
"The Festival also provides the opportunity to build further links between sport and tourism. It is expected to attract over 120,000 visitors in one week. It’s a great opportunity to capitalise on visitors’ interests in sport.
"Sporting tourism is a market we look to build on for the future and one of the reasons why the Executive is so strongly supporting Scotland’s bid for the Ryder Cup in 2009 and Euro 2008."
SECTION 3 - NOTES ON THIS WEEK’S CHAMBER BUSINESS
Parliament is in recess.
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