If you are interested in discussing any of the consultations below, please contact Hazel Benza, Policy & Partnership Manager Scotland & Northern Ireland, hazel.benza@landscapeinstitute.org

• Draft Environment Strategy
  Sets out Scotland’s overarching vision for tackling biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution. Relevant for landscape professionals in integrated land use, resilient placemaking, and design interventions that benefit both ecology and communities. Closes 29 September
  The Landscape Institute will be submitting a response to this consultation. Please share feedback or case studies with Hazel by 21 September if you would like your input reflected in our response.

   

• Building Standards: Flooding and Groundwater Guidance
  Proposes updates to building standards relating to flooding and groundwater. Highlights the role of resilient site design, SuDS, and integrated landscape approaches to climate adaptation. Closes 3 October
  The Landscape Institute will be submitting a response to this consultation. Please share feedback or case studies with Hazel by 27 September if you would like your input reflected in our response.

   

• Supporting Scotland’s Transition – Land Use and Agriculture
  Explores how land use and farming can support a just transition, balancing climate goals with rural livelihoods. Opportunities for influencing more resilient and multifunctional landscapes. Closes 5 October

   

• Scotland’s Fourth Land Use Strategy
  Seeks views on the long-term vision and priorities for sustainable land management, ensuring land use supports climate targets, biodiversity, productivity, and wellbeing. Closes 5 October

   

• Nitrate Vulnerable Zones Action Programme Review
  Consultation on agricultural practices to reduce nutrient pollution, with implications for water quality, soil health, and catchment-scale green infrastructure design. Closes 13 October

   

• Draft Marine and Coastal Restoration Plan
  Scotland’s first plan for restoring marine habitats and strengthening coastal resilience. Opportunities for coastal designers and placemakers to contribute to climate adaptation and biodiversity recovery. Closes 19 October

   

• Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture Research Strategy 2027–32
  Proposes priorities for research and investment shaping Scotland’s environmental and land use policy over the next five years—key insight for landscape practitioners. Closes 24 October

   

• Permitted development rights to support provision of new homes
  Seeks views on expanding permitted development rights to boost housing supply, including rural conversions and town centre living. Also considers support for low-carbon infrastructure like heat networks. Opportunities to influence planning reform. Closes 27 October