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The draft Infrastructure Investment Plan sets the strategic framework for the infrastructure investment the Scottish Government and its public bodies will make over the next 5 years, from 2021-22.
The draft Plan has built on and been directly informed by the work of the Infrastructure Commission Scotland, including the recommendations set out in the “Phase 1: Key findings report A blueprint for Scotland”. Recommendations include making the most of existing assets and an increased focus on decarbonising the heat and transport sector.
A new vision for infrastructure investment in Scotland is proposed and to deliver the vision, the draft Plan focuses on three key themes which are directly linked to Scotland’s National Performance Framework and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. A single vision for Scottish Government infrastructure investment choices has been adopted:
“Our infrastructure supports Scotland’s resilience and enables inclusive, netzero, and sustainable growth”
In supporting this vision, the draft Plan focuses on three key themes, recognising that these are not necessarily independent. For example, investing in a project which contributes towards Net Zero emissions could then also improve opportunities and outcomes in the place in which that project is based. The draft Plan outlines that investments which deliver positive outcomes across more than one theme will be prioritised.
• Enabling the transition to net-zero emissions and environmental sustainability
• Driving inclusive economic growth
• Building resilient and sustainable places and communities
An updated Scottish Government definition of infrastructure, expanded to include natural infrastructure, and a draft infrastructure investment hierarchy are also included. Draft Infrastructure Investment Plan 7 Environmental Report The proposed draft hierarchy (see figure below) has been developed to provide an overarching and common approach to prioritise infrastructure investment decisions. The draft hierarchy requires that consideration is given to the suitability of existing assets ahead of new build. For example, through requiring that any new infrastructure investment consideration to future needs, such as the use of digital and technological innovation, the projected impacts of climate change and future demographic changes, including age and disability. Where new build assets are required, it also provides a new set of future priorities that promote sustainability.
