Over 200 property developers use our Development Plan Assistance (DPA) service to add confidence to their developments across Scotland. Our DPA team have met with many users, and we’ve noticed a few conflicting opinions about the service and what it provides for our customers.

So without further ado, here’s five misconceptions about DPA debunked…

Myth #1: DPA only checks matters relating to development plans

Plans approval is only half the story of DPA. The service also includes a deeds check, which examines draft deed styles to check that they meet the criteria for registration. You can find out more about DPA’s deeds check on our blog.

Myth #2: You can’t change your development plan once it’s submitted to RoS

The development plan is one of the most important parts of a DPA submission, and we want you to feel fully confident in its accuracy even in changing market conditions. You’re therefore free to change your development plan as many times as you need, providing the changes don’t affect the applications already submitted.

Myth #3: Paper plans are still required to meet registration requirements

This is one of the real benefits of DPA – it’s tailored for the increasing digitalisation of registration. If you use DPA, any advance notices or house plot deeds relating to the development require no paper plans as you can simply refer to your approved DPA plan. You can find out more through our Knowledge Base.

Myth #4: DPA cannot be used in relation to the redevelopment of an existing building

Not all housing developments are built on land previously empty of buildings. DPA is applicable regardless of current land use, so whether you’re developing farmland or an old school, you can use DPA provided it has a land register title.

Myth #5: DPA can’t be used for tenement blocks

Thousands of people across Scotland live in tenement blocks, so it’s essential that DPA is able to support this important segment of the property market. The DPA team is happy to work with developers on tenement blocks – contact dpa@ros.gov.uk for preferred styles.

How can DPA support your development?

This blog should help answer some common questions on DPA. However, if you’ve any further questions regarding the service or how it can be used, simply contact the team for guidance. To get started, visit our website or contact dpa@ros.gov.uk

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