A rare window is closing fast for anyone hoping to shape the Highland landscape over the next decade.
The Highland Council’s official Call for Development Sites is underway and the deadline for submissions is rapidly approaching.
This is the council’s invitation to landowners and developers to put forward land they want considered for inclusion in the next Highland Local Development Plan.
The plan is a blueprint for where homes, businesses and infrastructure can be built in the future.
It sets out where planning permission is likely to be granted and where it won’t.
This is no ordinary invitation.
It happens only once every ten years and determines the region’s development direction until 2035.
Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, is urging action.
He says anyone wishing to gain council support for a significant building project in Highland should act now.
All bids submitted before the deadline will be considered for inclusion in the new plan.
The opportunity covers any project developers may wish to pursue over the next ten years.
Assistant Chief Executive for Place, Malcolm MacLeod, stressed the significance of this moment.
He confirmed that direct contact has already been made with key figures in the development industry.
He added that the council has taken out press space to spread the word, but does not want anyone to miss out.
This call is aimed at everyone from major firms to local landowners with bold ideas.
Submitting a site now could save years of uncertainty later down the line.
It also gives early clarity on the council’s likely support for specific developments.
For those who need more information or help, the Development Plans Team is available via hldp@highland.gov.uk or by calling 01349 886608.
All details about the Call and the Highland Local Development Plan are also available on the council’s website.
The clock is ticking.
Submissions must be made by 12 noon on Friday 2 May 2025.
This is a once-in-a-decade opportunity to help shape Highland’s future.
