The Planning (Scotland) Act 2019 introduced Masterplan Consent Areas (MCA) as a new proactive consenting mechanism.
MCAs offer a new way for the Council to shape development in our area – enabling the type and quality of development we wish to come forward through a consenting masterplan, and to support delivery of development that can support local needs, priorities and outcomes.
Unlike planning applications which are typically led by a developer, the preparation of MCA schemes will be led by the planning authority, but can be taken forward through collaboration.
MCA schemes can streamline consent, allowing issues to be considered as part of a joined up approach, they can grant:
- planning permission
- roads construction consent
- listed building consent
- conservation area consent
Within adopted MCA areas, development could be brought forward without the need for a full application as long as it is in line with the agreed scheme.
Consideration of the Duty to periodically consider making MCA schemes
Part 2 of the 2019 Act (Section 15) sets out the legal framework for preparing MCAs.
Schedule 5A Paragraph 5 requires planning authorities to periodically consider whether it would be desirable to make a scheme for a part or parts of their district, and to publish a statement as to their consideration of that.
East Ayrshire Council is considering bringing forward a Masterplan Consent Area within Kilmarnock town centre, with a focus on the area bounded by King Street and Sturrock Street. An MCA in the town centre has the potential to help deliver elements of the Kilmarnock Town Centre Vision and Concept Masterplan, published for consultation in September 2026.
In line with the requirements of the Act, appropriate preparatory work and engagement will be undertaken before a MCA scheme could be published and adopted.
This Statement fulfils the Council’s legal requirements under Schedule 5A Paragraph 5 of the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act, as amended.