The Caithness and Sutherland Local Development Plan (CaSPlan) outlines our vision and development strategy for the area over the next 20 years. The plan should be read alongside the National Planning Framework 4 and the Highland-wide Local Development Plan and associated Supplementary Guidance.
Adoption of the Plan
On 31 August 2018, CaSPlan was formally adopted by the Council and became part of the Development Plan. It will guide decisions on planning applications.
Implementing CaSPlan
With the plan now adopted, focus shifts to its implementation. The Caithness and Sutherland Delivery Programme details the infrastructure and development needed to realise the plan’s vision, policies, and proposals. Its purpose is to guide the delivery of growth by identifying, monitoring, and coordinating infrastructure projects, including those requiring developer contributions.
We will continue working with partners and stakeholders to review and, where appropriate, update the Delivery Programme as infrastructure develops, new opportunities arise, and pressures change.
Caithness and Sutherland Town Centre Strategy
The Caithness and Sutherland Town Centre Strategy aims to support CaSPlan by identifying potential actions to enhance the vitality and amenities of the main town centres: Brora, Dornoch, Golspie, Thurso, and Wick. The strategy was adopted as Supplementary Guidance in October 2020.
An accompanying Action Programme, developed by officers in consultation with Ward Members and relevant parties, outlines steps that individuals and organisations can take to improve these town centres.
CaSPlan Preparation Timeline
- August to October 2013 – Call for Sites and Ideas
- October 2014 to February 2015 – Publish and consult on Main Issues Report
- March to April 2015 – Additional Sites and Issues Consultation
- January to March 2016 – Publish and consult on the Proposed Plan
- 30 September to 11 November 2016 – Publish and consult on a Modified Plan
- 6 April 2017 – Submit Modified Plan for Examination to Scottish Ministers
- 11 April 2018 – Examination Report received
- 28 June 2018 – Council approved the intention to adopt CaSPlan
- 31 August 2018 – CaSPlan was adopted
Our Statement of Conformity with Participation Statement summarises the consultation process for CaSPlan and includes additional information.
The Background Documents page provides details on previous stages of CaSPlan development, including background assessments and analyses.