Affordable housing requirements for new Cairngorms developments increased

The implementation of a new Local Development Plan for the Cairngorms National Park has paved the way for an increase in the number of affordable homes required in new developments within the communities that have the greatest need.In Aviemore, Ballater, Braemar and Blair Atholl any new housing developments are now required to deliver 45% affordable homes – up from 25% – to ensure there is sufficient supply going forward.The board of the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) met online last month to agree to the new Local Development Plan (LDP2021) being formally adopted, replacing the previous five-year plan.The Cairngorms National Park is the largest National Park in the UK and a significant tourist destination attracting two million visitors annually. As well as being home to 18,000 residents, the Park is a haven for rare wildlife and its landscapes and habitats are of national and international importance. As well as allocating sufficient land for development to support vibrant communities, the next LDP aims to ensure there is sufficient land for housing, jobs and services while protecting the landscape and environment.The CNPA planning committee followed immediately after the board meeting where members were asked to adopt seven items of non-statutory guidance to support LDP2021. Members approved guidance for:Supporting Economic GrowthNatural HeritageLandscapeRenewable EnergyResourcesOpen Space, Sport and RecreationCultural HeritageTwo planning applications were also considered by the CNPA planning committee and they were assessed using the newly adopted LDP2021. A development of 23 new houses and garages with associated roads, infrastructure and landscaping in Kingussie and the erection of three houses and detached garages at Bridge of Gairn near Ballater in Aberdeenshire were both were approved subject to conditions.