EIR/202600526937 · FOI/EIR · unclear
Information regarding Planning and Environmental Appeals Division cases: EIR release
Information requested
Clarify how cases generally are dealt with in respect to the current caseload and whether or not there is any mechanism for prioritising or holding back particular cases, and in which circumstances this is applied.
Response
DPEA's work is primarily statutory and demand led. The Division seeks to progress all casework as efficiently as possible. However, where workload pressures arise or where exceptionally large volumes of casework are received, DPEA may prioritise certain categories of cases.
This can include strategically significant cases, nationally important infrastructure proposals or cases that have a particular relevance to wider government objectives, including renewable energy generation, electricity transmission investment and net zero delivery.
To support increasing workloads, DPEA has strengthened forecasting and forward-planning arrangements and engages regularly with consenting colleagues within the Scottish Government, planning authorities, developers and infrastructure promoters to improve visibility of future case volumes.
This assists with the early identification of significant or complex cases and the allocation of reporter resources. We have also expanded the pool of consultant reporters to help manage the increasing caseload and resulting workforce pressures.
Where prioritisation is applied, it relates to the management and sequencing of casework rather than the substance of decision-making. All cases continue to be assessed on their individual merits and in accordance with the relevant legislative and procedural requirements. The independence, fairness and robustness of the examination process remain fundamental principles of DPEA's work.
DPEA will continue to review resource requirements, within the principles of the wider public service reform strategy, to ensure it is able to support the timely determination of decisions on planning and energy infrastructure projects that are critical to delivering Scotland's net zero targets and long-term energy security.
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