Published in 2011, this document recognises the importance of the quality of the physical environment to the target of sustainable economic growth. It recognises that if Central Scotland is to be successful in encouraging people and businesses to stay in or come to the area, its environment, both urban and rural, must be improved. With increasing levels of personal and business mobility, having a region that is economically competitive with other parts of Britain and Europe has never been more important. The physical environment must and will play a vital role in that competitiveness.

Our vision for Central Scotland is also based on the important contribution that the environment can make to the lives of everyone who lives here. A good-quality environment offers opportunities for promoting a sense of well-being, a healthy lifestyle, active travel (encouraging walking and cycling to school, shops or work instead of driving), and safe and successful communities.

Building on what has already been achieved, we now aim to deliver across Central Scotland a high-quality ‘green network’ that will meet environmental, social and economic goals designed to improve people’s lives, promote economic success, allow nature to flourish and help Scotland respond to the challenge of climate change.