asked the Minister for Local Government whether, before planning permission is granted in the case of large shopping complexes, any prior examination of the shopping facilities of a selected area is undertaken.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Granting of Planning Permission.
117.
The grant of planning permission for any development is a matter for the planning authority in the first instance. I have no function in the matter except in relation to appeals made to me against decisions of the planning authorities.
In dealing with applications for planning permission a planning authority are restricted to considering the proper planning and development of the area of the authority, including the preservation and improvement of the amenities thereof, regard being had to the provisions of the development plan or the draft development plan as the case may be.
I have no information whether an examination such as that referred to has, in fact, been carried out in any area by a planning authority in relation to an application for planning permission for a shopping complex. I am aware, however, that when determining the land use of an area in their possession where new development is taking place, the Dublin planning authorities earmark certain areas for shopping development. It is to be expected that in dealing with an application for a large shopping complex or any other type of development the planning authority, before arriving at their decision, will give due consideration to any objections made to them.
Would the Minister consider it a reasonable request to ensure that car parking facilities are available near a cafe situated at a busy intersection which is used by a large number of people, before planning permission is given?
The question does not relate to car parking.
The question relates to facilities for shopping. Most people bring a car when they go shopping and they have to find somewhere to park their car.
If they have a car.
Would the Minister consider it reasonable that there should be parking accommodation before such permission is given?
Where a large shopping complex, or indeed any other development is being considered for planning permission, one of the factors which would receive very serious consideration is the adequacy of car parking facilities.
118.
asked the Minister for Local Government if he intends to ensure that buildings erected conform strictly with the plans and specifications to which the permission relates.
The enforcement of planning control is fundamentally a matter for the planning authorities. Powers available to planning authorities in the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act, 1963 include those under sections 24, 31 and 35. The question of whether further powers should be made available is being examined in connection with the preparation of proposals for legislation to amend planning law.