Planning Issues.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 February 2010

Tuesday, 9 February 2010

Questions (444)

Bobby Aylward

Question:

578 Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in view of current economic circumstances, he will include in the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2009 an extension to the duration of planning permissions granted specifically since mid-2008 where it has not been possible to commence a development within the period originally specified in a planning permission, which would benefit persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6372/10]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

It should be noted that planning permission granted since mid-2008 would generally remain valid for a period of five years, beginning on the date of the grant of permission. Section 42 of the Planning and Development Acts 2000–2009 provides that the duration of a planning permission may be extended, subject to certain conditions, where substantial works have been carried out before the expiration of the original permission. The Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill amends section 42 to provide, subject to certain conditions, for the possibility of an extension of permission, for a period of up to five years, in circumstances where substantial works have not been carried out, but there are commercial, economic or technical considerations, beyond the control of the applicant, which substantially militated against either the commencement of development or the carrying out of substantial works. It is intended that this provision should apply to applications for extension of permission received after the commencement of the said provision of the Act.