Planning Bill marks vital step towards reform

10 October 2024

Chambers Ireland welcomes the approval by the Dáil of the long-awaited Planning and Development Bill.

Speaking today, Chief Executive Ian Talbot said that the Bill represents a vital step towards addressing Ireland’s long-standing infrastructure challenges.

“This marks a major step towards reform. We’re optimistic that the legislation will streamline coordination, speed up decisions, and bring much-needed certainty. This should be the catalyst for delivering the infrastructure the State urgently needs.

To remain a competitive economy the State needs to be an attractive place to invest in and live. For too long, projects have been hampered by a sluggish and fragmented planning system. This manifests itself in the repeated delays to key developments that are vital for our economic future.

Now is the time to push on and realise the objectives of the National Development Plan. That means delivering on the transport, housing, energy and water infrastructure that is the lifeblood of our growing population.

‘Push on’ means being proactive and getting ahead of the curve to facilitate investment. For example, attention should now be given to implementing the EU Revised Renewable Energy Directive 2023  to streamline permits for renewable energy projects. The urgency needs to be there.”

Talbot continued:

“Alongside legislative reform, we’ve been advocating for stronger support and resources for planning authorities nationwide. To truly succeed, this effort must also extend to bolstering Local Government and the Courts and judicial system.”

ENDS

Notes for the Editor: For more information contact Shane Hughes at shane.hughes@chambers.ie