Draft First Revision to the National Planning Framework
The First Revision to the National Planning Framework (NPF) has been published for consultation by the Government. Submissions and observations can be made from Wednesday 10th July 2024, up to 5pm on Thursday 12th September 2024.
When drafting the Revision, a number of key drivers were identified including the climate transition, regional development, changing and diverse demographics, digitalisation, and investment and prioritisation. Several changes to the National Policy Objectives have been made. These include, but are not limited to:
- A new Objective calling for the conservation and restoration of biodiversity in line with the National Biodiversity Action Plan (NPO 84).
- A revision to regional population targets (previously NPO 1B, now NPO 3)
- A new Objective to support the development of Coastal Management Plans (NPO 55)
New Housing Targets in October/ESRI Report
The Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) has released a new paper on 2nd July that outlines an increased projection for housing demand between 2023-2030 and long term projections between 2030-2040. The paper 12 different scenarios of population growth, including mortality and fertility rates, are considered in their findings. The average of the findings indicate that until 2030, approximately 44,000 housing units are necessary per year to meet demand, with 40,000 per year necessary between 203-2040. This new research contrasts with the demands set out in the Government’s Housing for All targets of 33,000 homes per annum through 2030. However, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage note that they are on track with the increased projects as 52,000 new homes have commenced construction in the past 12 months.
40,000 Homes Face a Planning Cliff
The Irish Institutional Property (IIP) lobby group has warned the Government that at least 40,000 approved homes stuck in the planning process, including 25,000 ‘shovel-ready’ projects, are at risk of falling ‘off a cliff edge’. The group cited delays due to legal challenges and inflation of constructions costs as the key threats to the projects. Concern about the transition period during the enaction and commencement of the Planning Bill were also highlighted as key concerns.
An Bord Pleanála decisions on three crucial transport projects
An Bord Pleanála has approved three key projects which form key parts of the Government’s ambitions for improving public transport. In Dublin, Bus Connects Swords to City Centre and Blanchardstown to City Centre were both approved. This means a total of 6 of the Dublin Bus Connects corridors have been approved by the Board. However, two of those have been Judicial Reviewed: the Belfield/Blackrock, and Clonfriffin corridors.
In Cork, the Cork Level Crossing Project has been permitted. The project sought the removal or upgrade of seven level crossings on the Cork to Dublin mainline in order to provide a safer and more efficient service alone the line. The crossings are located within a 24km section of the line between the Cork and Limerick county boundary.
Of the key transport projects awaiting a decision from the Board, the Cork Level Crossing Project had been waiting the longest at almost 163 weeks. Dart+ West now takes the mantle (102 weeks), followed by Galway’s Cross City Link (96 weeks), among major transport projects.
Consultations
Draft Maynooth and Environs Joint Local Area Plan 2025-2031
Kildare County Council and Meath County Council propose to make a Joint Local Area Plan (LAP) for the Maynooth and Environs area. The Joint LAP incorporates a framework for guiding the future development of transportation, housing, retail, heritage, employment, and social and community infrastructure in Maynooth.
A public information session will take place on Wednesday the 10th of July from 3pm to 7pm at Maynooth University. Submissions can be made at the following locations up to 4pm on Thursday 1st August 2024.
By Post: In a letter marked ‘Draft Maynooth and Environs Joint Local Area Plan 2025-2031′ to either:
Kildare County Council: Senior Executive Officer, Planning Department, Kildare County Council, Áras Chill Dara, Naas, Co. Kildare, W91 X77F
Meath County Council: Senior Executive Officer, Planning Department, Meath County Council, Buvinda House, Dublin Road, Navan, Co. Meath, C15 Y291
- Post: In a letter marked ‘Draft Maynooth and Environs Joint Local Area Plan 2025-2031′ to either:
- Kildare County Council: Senior Executive Officer, Planning Department, Kildare County Council, Áras Chill Dara, Naas, Co. Kildare, W91 X77F
- Meath County Council: Senior Executive Officer, Planning Department, Meath County Council, Buvinda House, Dublin Road, Navan, Co. Meath, C15 Y291
Consultation on the Draft Portlaoise Local Area Plan 2024 – 2030
Pursuant to Section 20 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as amended, Laois County Council being the Planning Authority for the functional area of County Laois, hereby gives notice of the preparation of a Draft Local Area Plan for Portlaoise 2024-2030.
Submissions must be made before 4pm on Wednesday 26th June 2024. Details on how to submit an observation are below.
- Email: portlaoiselap@laoiscoco.ie
- Post: Senior Planner, Planning Section, Áras an Chontae, JFL Ave., Portlaoise, County Laois.