Stuart Mearns, from Stirling, was recruited to the role after a three-month search.

A graduate of Strathclyde University, he has been working as a chartered town and country planner for both planning authorities and government agencies for the past 14 years.

He joined Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority as forward planning manager in 2009 and has played a key role in developing planning policies that support the Park’s responsibilities for rural development, conservation and visitor experience.

Prior to working for the National Park, Stuart worked for the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, Hawkes’ Bay Regional Council in New Zealand and The Highland Council. Now the 38-year-old is celebrating two career successes in one week after he collected an award from the Scottish Government for “ground-breaking” planning guidance in Edinburgh.

The National Park’s Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) for Renewable Energy was commended in the Development category at the Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning.

Formally introduced in 2013, the National Park’s SPG for Renewable Energy has been in development since 2011 and represents a significant undertaking by Park planners, which resulted in approval of 36 renewable energy schemes by the National Park, 11 of which are now operational.

Stuart said: “This is fantastic recognition of all the hard work that went into the development of our guidance for Renewable Energy by a number of staff.

“Renewable energy represents a significant opportunity for the Park’s rural economy, so we worked with partners to provide comprehensive guidance that would not only allow communities to benefit but also fulfils our responsibilities to protecting the Park’s sensitive landscape.

“I am delighted that the judges decided this was done to an exceptionally high standard and would like to thank everyone involved.”