Formal Board Paper 1 Annex 1.22 - Town centres and retail

This document contains an evidence report for the Cairngorms National Park Local Development Plan, focusing on town and village centres and retail. It compiles findings from town and village health checks conducted by the Cairngorms National Park Authority (Park Authority) in 2023 and 2025, which assessed the vitality, business mix, and community needs of places like Aviemore, Ballater, and Blair Atholl. The report is guided by the National Planning Framework 4's "Town Centre First Principle", promoting sustainable development, local living, cultural vibrancy, and economic resilience. Key findings highlight issues such as vacant properties, challenges with housing availability, and transport infrastructure needs, while also recognizing cultural offerings like art galleries, cinemas, and music venues. Implications for the Proposed Plan include reviewing town centre boundaries, restricting certain non-retail uses like hot food takeaways, supporting electric vehicle charging and active travel, re-using vacant land for residential development, extending the Strathspey railway, and safeguarding local services and cultural heritage assets.