I propose to take Questions Nos. 268 and 269 together.
My Department is not aware of any significant withholding of applications or withdrawals as a result of the introduction of the Guidelines in 2015. The intention of the focussed review of the current Guidelines is to examine the scope for any further planning measures that could be deployed in relation to the viability of apartment development in our cities and towns, in the context of achieving more compact urban development.
I have therefore recently established a working group, whose role is to undertake a focused, time-bound review to ensure the maximum continuity of new apartment proposals coming forward for consideration, commensurate with the need to address technical aspects in need of adjustment in light of the practical experience in the application of existing 2015 Guidelines, with a view to encouraging greater supply. It has held several meetings to date and formed a number of sub-groups to examine specific elements in relation to apartment planning and building height policies.
The work of the group is scheduled to conclude in the coming weeks with the aim to update both the 2015 Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for New Apartments – Guidelines for Planning Authorities and the 2007 Development Plans - Guidelines for Planning Authorities, both of which are available at the following links:
www.housing.gov.ie/sites/default/files/publications/files/apartment_guidelines_21122015.pdf. www.housing.gov.ie/sites/default/files/migrated-files/en/Publications/DevelopmentandHousing/Planning/NationalSpatialStrategy/FileDownLoad%2C14468%2Cen.pdf.