What’s in the report

The report looks at:

• Why planning matters for public health. Planning policies shape the places we live, work and play and the types of food outlets in our neighbourhoods
• An overview of the planning system in Scotland, including the role different parts of the system play in shaping the food environment
• How Takeaway Management Zones in England have been implemented as an example of a food environment planning policy. These zones restrict planning permission for new takeaways within a set distance of schools or in areas with many existing outlets.
• The opportunities and challenges of introducing a similar scheme in Scotland
• How health boards and public health professionals can get involved in shaping local development plans

Findings/recommendations

• Limited window: As local authorities are currently developing their new 10 year Local Development Plans, there is a limited window to influence these and include new food environment policies if desired before 2028.
• Build partnerships: Stronger collaboration between planning and Public Health is needed to gather evidence and advocate for change.
• Focus on health inequalities: Policies should prioritise areas with the greatest need, where unhealthy food environments and obesity rates are highest.
• Potential first step: Takeaway Management Zones at present represent a blunt instrument, principally concerned with land use rather than the content of the food provided. However, while not a silver bullet, Takeaway Management Zones can help shift the planning system towards supporting healthier food environments and pave the way for more ambitious policies in the future.