Culloden battlefield to be protected by new planning policy

A new conservation area to protect the historic site of the battle of Culloden has been approved by Highland Council.

The new designation for Culloden Muir means that planning permission will be required for developments within the area that would otherwise fall within permitted development.

This includes, for example, house extensions, satellite dishes, walls and fences, alteration to windows and doors and demolition of unlisted buildings.

RELATED CONTENT

Scottish islands call for innovation zone

Highland Council proposes cutting working week to save money

Development will not be prohibited within the area, rather the aim is to make sure it is done sensitively.

A conservation area character appraisal and management plan will guide councillors in the determination of future development proposals or planning applications within the new conservation area.

This is the first formal review in 47 years to the existing conservation area around Culloden – first designated in 1968.

The change will now be publicly advertised and the Scottish Government formally notified.

The current requirement that Historic Environment Scotland (HES) must be consulted on any application for development within the Battlefield Inventory Area remains unchanged.

If HES objects to a proposed development that Highland Council wishes to approve, the case can be called in by the Scottish Government.

Provost and Leader of Inverness and Area Councillor Helen Carmichael said: “I am pleased that we now have a conservation and management plan in place that will help to protect one of our most valuable cultural and tourism assets in the Highlands – historic Culloden Battlefield.

“This will be a working plan that will help guide current and future planners in their decision-making.

“It will not be static as the council has a duty to notify the public of any future proposals to preserve or enhance the conservation area.”