New guidance to help professionals assess the potential impacts of future development on

Scotland’s coastal landscapes has been published by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH). With marine recreation and tourism expenditure in Scotland estimated at £3.7 billion per year, it is vital that development of our internationally renowned coastal landscapes is carefully managed. This guidance sets out how to undertake a coastal character assessment, which is central to the planning and development process as it provides the baseline information against which landscape and visual impacts are assessed.

Welcoming the guidance, Cabinet Secretary for the Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Roseanna Cunningham said: “Our coastal landscapes are crucial to our natural and cultural heritage. As part of our spectacular scenery, they are an important economic asset, attracting businesses and tourists. As local surroundings, they contribute to our health and wellbeing and they are exhilarating places for recreation and enjoyment. “The coastal characterisation assessment guidance will help us ensure that our coasts are taken into account when considering specific changes or looking at the broader scale of new spatial plans and development.” Click here to read more.