Section 49 of the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2018 amends the Planning and Development Act 2000 to classify communications and data infrastructure above a certain size threshold as strategic infrastructure developments. This will mean that, when the provision has been commenced, applications for planning permission for communications and data infrastructure that meet the prescribed scale requirements will be made directly to An Bord Pleanála similar to other pre-existing types of strategic infrastructure development. The new arrangements will be commenced after the necessary preparations by the Board, and other necessary supporting requirements, have been completed. My Department is working towards the completion of this process as soon as possible.