Councillors will be asked to consider a report and agree the Local Place Plans (LPPs) for Port William and Moffat at a meeting of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee on 4 February.
The opportunity to create LPPs was introduced under the Planning (Scotland) Act 2019, empowering communities to have a direct say in their neighbourhoods’ development. Once registered, the LPPs must be considered by the council in preparing the next Local Development Plan (LDP3).
Chair of the council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Ian Blake, said: “These Local Place Plans, developed through extensive community engagement, will play a key role in shaping the future development of these areas and enhancing the quality of life for residents. Registration of the place plans represent a great deal of work across the communities, and I’d like to thank all who have given their views in the development of this work.”
Led by the Port William and District Community Council, the Port William LPP reflects the community’s priorities for 2024–2034. Over 100 local residents participated in events, contributing 220 comments through consultations and the Place Standard Tool.
The plan focuses on three key priorities:
1. Work and Local Economy – Supporting local businesses and creating new opportunities.
2. Environment – Enhancing the natural surroundings and sustainability.
3. Well-being – Improving community health, services, and facilities.
Community engagement activities included school outreach, drop-in sessions and visioning workshops. The resulting plan incorporates input from national, regional, and local policies, ensuring it aligns with broader planning goals.
Moffat’s LPP, developed by the Moffat and District Community Council with support from other local groups, outlines priorities for 2025 to 2030. It builds on previous community plans and reflects the desire for stronger collaboration between Dumfries and Galloway Council and Moffat’s residents.
Key themes of the Moffat LPP include:
• A sustainable community that thrives economically, socially, and environmentally.
• Support for tourism as a cornerstone of the local economy.
• Vibrant retail and hospitality on the High Street.
• Enhanced transport links and educational opportunities.
• A focus on health, housing, and net-zero goals.
Community engagement activities in Moffat ranged from door-to-door leaflets to public presentations at events like farmers’ markets and rugby club gatherings. The plan emphasises strategic planning issues while also addressing community aspirations for improvement.
Jackie McCamon, vice chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee said: “The council’s decision to register the LPPs will ensure these community visions are integrated into future planning processes. Both Port William and Moffat have demonstrated strong local collaboration, showcasing the value of community-led planning in shaping sustainable and vibrant places for generations to come.”
The report can be read on the council website: https://dumfriesgalloway.moderngov.co.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=624&MId=6201
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