Our response to Scottish Government consultation on Local Living and 20-minute Neighbourhoods Planning Guidance

In our response, we welcome that health and improving health are recognised as core components of successful local living and 20-minute neighbourhoods, and that some policies in NPF4 provide opportunities in this regard. We recommend the guidance document is updated to reference and reflect the relevant policies in NPF4. 

We have also identified areas where the guidance document could be strengthened, including in relation to the provision of shopping facilities within 20-minute neighbourhoods, as identified by the guidance. The guidance must ensure that shopping facilities provided in 20-minute neighbourhoods provide access to affordable healthy food, to avoid further exacerbating inequalities and worsening health outcomes. It is critical that in delivering enhanced local living and 20-minute neighbourhoods that access to healthy food outlets and environments is prioritised.

The consultation closes on 20th July 2023.