In collaboration with Public Health Scotland (PHS), Nesta has published 2 new resources exploring how Scotland’s planning system can help create healthier food environments, and reduce obesity and health inequalities:

“Planning for Healthier Communities – Opportunities in the Scottish Planning System” (research report)
“The role of Local Development Plans (LDPs) in shaping healthier food environments across Scotland” (supporting policy briefing)

The resources highlight opportunities within the National Planning Framework 4 and the preparation of Local Development Plans (LDPs), to better integrate public health considerations into planning policy. Drawing on research and stakeholder engagement, they outline practical ways for planning and public health partners to work together, address health inequalities, and use local data to support policies that promote access to healthier food options across Scotland, shaping the country’s food environment for the next decade.

Nesta is an innovation agency working for social good, focusing on “breaking the link between family background and life chances, halving obesity and cutting household carbon emissions”.

To view or download the resources, or for further information, please visit the PHS website (linked for your convenience).