The annually updated DPS is a blueprint that informs future infrastructure and development investment, aiding decision-making on key planning applications essential to regional economic growth.

This year’s DPS encompasses a revised Participation Statement and an updated LDP3 timetable. These modifications were based on extensive public consultation, aimed at increasing transparency in the planning process and enhancing public engagement at all stages.

Chair of the Dumfries and Galloway Council Economy and Resources Committee, councillor Ian Carruthers, said: “In order to ensure transparency and accountability, this Development Plan Scheme provides a comprehensive overview, which outlines the various stages of the Local Development Plan 3 process and how and when you can participate.

“Including public consultation, review, and adoption of the plan, as well as monitoring and evaluation of the plan once it is in place.

“All stakeholders are encouraged to engage in the process to ensure that everyone’s views and opinions are taken into account. The ultimate goal is to create an effective, workable plan that meets local communities’ needs.”

Vice chair, councillor David Inglis, said: “The Development Plan Scheme establishes the framework for planning our LDP3, which informs future infrastructure and development investment and serves as the basis for decision-making on planning applications that are so critical to our region’s economic development.

“We believe that it is important that the Development Plan Scheme be periodically reviewed and updated in order to ensure that it reflects the needs and aspirations of the local community as well as taking into account regional and national policies.”

The 15th edition DPS also outlines planning reforms brought by national planning reforms that have altered the structure of the upcoming LDP3.