The West Highland and Islands Local Development Plan (WestPlan) is the third of three new area plans that, together with National Planning Framework 4, the Highland-wide Local Development Plan (HwLDP), and supplementary guidance, form the overarching development plan guiding future growth in the Highlands. WestPlan identifies where development should and should not occur in the West Highland and Islands area over the next 20 years. The plan area includes Wester Ross, Skye and Lochalsh, Lochaber, and a small, mountainous part of Badenoch.
Adoption of the Plan
WestPlan was officially adopted on 30 September 2019 following approval by Scottish Ministers, and was published on 15 November 2019.
Previous stages of the plan-making process, including the Call for Sites, the Main Issues Report, and the Proposed Plan, can be found in the History of the Plan section.
Implementing WestPlan
With WestPlan now adopted, the focus shifts to its implementation. The WestPlan Delivery Programme outlines the necessary infrastructure and development actions to realise the plan’s vision, spatial strategy, policies, and proposals. It provides information to support the identification, monitoring, and delivery of future growth, including which infrastructure projects may require developer contributions and coordination of investment in development and infrastructure.
We will continue working with partners and stakeholders to review and, where appropriate, update the Delivery Programme as infrastructure is delivered, new development opportunities arise, and pressures evolve.
Skye and Raasay Investment Plan
The Council, alongside HIE, is supporting the development of the Skye and Raasay Investment Plan, encouraging participation from key community groups. The plan aims to coordinate investments across various organisations, maximise impacts, and identify priorities. It will establish a joint action plan to improve prospects for securing future funding.
Fort William 2040 (FW2040)
As part of WestPlan’s delivery, the second edition of the FW2040 project has been published. This project plays a vital role in the plan’s Action Programme and aims to help realise a shared vision for the future of Fort William and Lochaber.
Fort William Strategic Transport Study – Pre-Appraisal
This key background document for WestPlan presents evidence of transport issues and explores approaches to developing the transport network in Fort William.