The Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR) is a significant transport infrastructure project that has changed connectivity around Aberdeen and the wider north-east of Scotland.
For landowners and developers, the route can be an important consideration when assessing property, development opportunities and land-use proposals. Its relationship with a particular site may affect matters such as access, highways, land ownership, development potential and other planning considerations.
Understanding these issues at an early stage can help landowners make informed decisions before progressing with a development proposal.
What Is the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route?
The Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route is a major road infrastructure scheme providing a strategic route around Aberdeen.
The route extends for approximately 58 kilometres and includes a number of junctions and associated infrastructure connecting the route with the surrounding road network. The completed scheme opened fully to traffic in February 2019.
The route forms an important part of the transport infrastructure serving Aberdeen and the surrounding areas.
Why Is the AWPR Relevant to Landowners?
The location of a property in relation to major infrastructure can be relevant when considering its current use or future development potential.
For landowners, issues may include:
- Access to and from the site
- Existing and proposed road connections
- Land boundaries
- Easements and rights of access
- Highways considerations
- Development constraints
- Changes in surrounding land use
- Environmental considerations
- Potential infrastructure requirements
These matters should be assessed alongside the relevant planning policies and site-specific constraints.
Developing Land Near the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route
Owning land close to the AWPR does not automatically mean that development will be permitted.
A planning proposal must still be assessed against the relevant planning framework and the circumstances of the site.
Depending on the proposed use, this may include residential, commercial, agricultural, industrial or mixed-use development.
Access to the Road Network
Access is an important consideration for many development proposals.
Where a site is close to a major road, the proposed development may need to demonstrate appropriate access arrangements and consider the impact of additional traffic on the surrounding network.
Early consideration of highways requirements can help identify potential issues before a planning application is submitted.
Land Use and Planning Policy
The potential for development will depend on the planning designation and policies applying to the site.
Landowners should consider the relevant local development plan, planning constraints and any specific policies affecting the proposed development.
The proximity of the AWPR may form part of the wider site assessment but does not, by itself, establish a right to develop the land.
Property Rights and Boundaries
Infrastructure can also create or affect issues relating to land ownership and property rights.
Where a development site has existing rights of way, easements, access arrangements or boundary issues, these should be reviewed as part of the development process.
A clear understanding of the legal position can help identify potential obstacles before a project progresses.
Does the AWPR Create Development Opportunities?
Improved connectivity can be a relevant factor when assessing the potential use of land.
However, transport accessibility is only one consideration in determining whether a particular site is suitable for development.
A development assessment may also need to consider:
- Planning policy
- Highways
- Infrastructure
- Environmental constraints
- Landscape
- Drainage
- Existing land use
- Ownership
- Access
- Development viability
A site appraisal can help determine which issues require further investigation before submitting a planning application.
Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route and Compensation
Some landowners affected by major road schemes may have rights to seek compensation under applicable legislation.
Transport Scotland has published information regarding Part I claims relating to the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route and Balmedie to Tipperty scheme. Eligibility depends on specific statutory requirements and the circumstances of the affected property.
Compensation matters can involve complex legal and valuation considerations, so specialist advice should be obtained where a potential claim is being considered.
Planning Applications Near Major Infrastructure
Where land is being considered for development near the AWPR, planning applications may need to address the relationship between the proposed development and the surrounding transport infrastructure.
Depending on the proposal, this could involve information relating to:
- Vehicle access
- Traffic generation
- Highway safety
- Site layout
- Parking
- Pedestrian and cycle connections
- Environmental effects
- Noise
- Drainage
- Landscape impact
The requirements will vary according to the development and its location.
Why Obtain Planning Advice Before Developing Land?
Early planning advice can help landowners establish whether a proposed development is realistic and identify issues that may need to be addressed.
This can be particularly useful where land is affected by major infrastructure, highways requirements or complex property considerations.
Obtaining advice before preparing a full planning application can help establish an appropriate strategy for the site.
How Charrette Law Can Help
At Charrette Law, we advise landowners, developers and property owners on planning and property matters affecting development.
Our services can assist with planning strategy, development proposals, land-use considerations and property issues that may affect the use or development of land.
If you own land affected by the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route or are considering a development proposal in the surrounding area, our team can advise on the planning and property considerations relevant to your project.
Contact Charrette Law to discuss your land or development proposal and obtain professional planning advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route?
The Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR) is a major road scheme around Aberdeen, extending approximately 58 kilometres and connecting different parts of the surrounding road network.
Can I develop land near the AWPR?
Development may be possible depending on the site’s planning designation, access, infrastructure, environmental constraints and other relevant planning considerations.
Does being close to the AWPR improve development potential?
Transport connectivity can be relevant when assessing land, but proximity to the route does not automatically make land suitable for development or guarantee planning permission.
Can the AWPR affect access to my property?
Major infrastructure can affect existing or proposed access arrangements. The position will depend on the location of the property and the relevant road and property arrangements.
Could I be entitled to compensation because of the AWPR?
Certain statutory compensation provisions may apply to qualifying interests in land affected by major road schemes. Eligibility depends on the relevant legislation and individual circumstances.
Should I obtain planning advice before developing land near the AWPR?
Early professional advice can help identify planning, highways, environmental and property considerations before significant costs are incurred.
