NatureScot's InformedDECISION - Protected Areas Casework Pilot

What is InformedDECISON and why is it being piloted for NatureScot casework?

NatureScot is working with Informed Solutions to apply new technology to our casework service. The result is a new product called InformedDECISION©.  This is a fully integrated platform that brings the benefits of artificial intelligence and automation to the consultation and decision making process.

NatureScot is running a pilot testing InformedDECISION© in our National Operations South area (shown in the map), with an initial focus on delivering an improved service for statutory consultations with selected Local Planning Authorities, Scottish Forestry, selected environmental consultancies and for the SSSI consents process.

The pilot will explore ways in which NatureScot’s statutory consultation process can be improved to provide a more efficient, consistent and timely service with benefits to both NatureScot and our partners.

The pilot will start on 5 June 2023. 

Who should consult NatureScot using InformedDECISION in the pilot?

Local Planning Authorities - if you are contacting NatureScot regarding statutory consultations within the following local authority areas ONLY:

  • Dumfries and Galloway Council
  • East Lothian Council
  • Falkirk Council
  • Fife Council
  • Scottish Borders Council
  1. Owners, occupiers or public bodies applying for Site of Special Scientific Interest Consents – in NatureScot’s Operations South area ONLY.  NatureScot’s National Operations South area covers:
  • City of Edinburgh
  • Clackmannanshire
  • Dumfries and Galloway
  • East Lothian
  • Falkirk
  • Fife
  • Midlothian
  • Scottish Borders
  • Stirling
  • West Lothian   
  1. Scottish Forestry – for South Scotland Conservancy for Dumfries & Galloway and Scottish Borders ONLY for statutory forestry consultations. Do not use InformedDECISION for cases in South Ayrshire.
  1. Selected environmental consultancies for pre-application consultations ONLY in NatureScot’s National Operations South area. Consultancies involved in the pilot will have been notified by NatureScot.

How do I access InformedDECISION for my consultation? 

Please follow this link to access InformedDECISION to make your application. Please answer the questions and provide the information requested and we will respond.

What if I am NOT in one of the categories but I still want to consult NatureScot?

Please continue to follow the standard consultation process if you are not in any of the categories detailed above.

Full description provided next
NatureScot Operational Areas Map
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Map of Scotland showing NatureScot Operational Areas. South Scotland area shown in purple colour. 

Further Information

For any enquiries please contact [email protected]

If you have any technical difficulties with InformedDECISION, please contact Informed Solutions on [email protected].

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