Ireland Advances Planning Reform with Next Phase of 2024 Act Implementation

Major Reforms Underway for Ireland's Planning System

Ireland is progressing with significant reforms to its planning system, as the next phase of changes under the Planning and Development Act 2024 is set to take effect on December 31, 2025. The announcement was made by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, and Minister of State with responsibility for Local Government and Planning, John Cummins. These reforms are designed to strengthen the country's planning framework, aiming for improved clarity, consistency, and confidence across the system.

The Planning and Development Act 2024, signed into law on October 17, 2024, represents a comprehensive overhaul of Ireland's planning legislation, replacing and consolidating previous laws. Its implementation is being phased due to the extensive nature of the legislation.

Key Changes to Development Planning and Local Authority Powers

A central element of the upcoming changes involves local authority development plans. Their lifespan will be extended from six to ten years, with mandatory reviews every five years, providing greater sustainability, consistency, and certainty for stakeholders. This aims to ensure plans are more up-to-date and align with national housing and economic development strategies.

Furthermore, the existing local area plans will be replaced by three new types of area-based plans:

• Urban Area Plans: For regional growth centers and key towns.
• Priority Area Plans: Targeting parts of towns or cities with potential for major development.
• Coordinated Area Plans: Jointly prepared by two or more local authorities.

Local authorities will also be required to develop comprehensive housing strategies, assessing current and future needs, including provisions for affordable and cost-rental accommodation. An Advisory Board for the Planning Regulator will be established to offer strategic guidance and monitor implementation.

Reforming Judicial Review and Decision-Making

The reforms also introduce significant changes to the judicial review process, aiming to streamline procedures and reduce delays. Key amendments include the removal of the requirement to apply for 'leave' to initiate judicial review proceedings. Additionally, the time spent in judicial review will no longer count towards the lifespan of a planning permission, a change that will apply retrospectively. This measure is intended to prevent planning permissions from expiring due to legal delays.

The legislation also mandates the reconstitution of An Bord Pleanála as An Coimisiún Pleanála, which will operate under statutory, mandatory timelines for decision-making, enhancing confidence and certainty for applicants. These changes are part of a broader effort to ensure transparent and timely decision-making within the planning framework.

Strengthening Alignment with National Objectives

The new Act emphasizes a more coordinated approach between regional assemblies and local authorities, aligning planning with national objectives in critical areas such as housing, infrastructure, and renewable energy. National Planning Statements, approved by the Government, will provide clear and consistent national planning policies that all regional and local authorities must adhere to. This strategic alignment is expected to accelerate housing delivery, optimize the use of zoned land, and ensure infrastructure investment meets housing needs. The reforms also integrate climate objectives, ensuring that development aligns with Ireland's emissions reduction targets and promotes sustainable development practices.