Member

Meanwhile, there is real and understandable concern that funds paid by applicants or developers are not always being used for their intended purpose. There is a risk—indeed, some would say a pattern—of the SNP-run Scottish Government diverting funds towards what might appear to be politically motivated projects, including, of course, work on pro-independence White Papers. This amendment would place a clear legal duty on the Scottish Ministers to use planning-related fees either to fund local planning capacity or deliver tangible community benefits. It is a reasonable safeguard and a much-needed one.