The Planning section of Falkirk District council was responsible for all aspects of development, including planning policies, local plans, and planning control over individual buildings. Planning takes account of issues such as the environment, neighbourhood concerns, town planning and development. Until 1997 the main legislation was the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1947 with subsequent amendments. The Planning section did not deal with standards of construction which are subject to separate legislation and are dealt with by the Building Control section of Falkirk District council. The Planning section was part of Falkirk District Council's Strategic Services Department from 1975-1996. It became part of Development Services of Falkirk Council in 1996.