Vol. 525 No. 3
126 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the exemptions for development under the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2000; the issues of concern over such exemptions brought to his attention; his views on whether development exemptions should be pro rata to the original size of the house; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24232/00]
Arising from the commitment made in the Government's Action on Housing to improve the deployment of existing planning resources, the Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2000, were made on 22 June 2000 with a view to freeing up resources in the planning system.
The main effect of these regulations is to increase the size of domestic extensions exempt from the requirement to obtain planning permission, subject to compliance with specific conditions and limitations. The regulations specify different limits for different circumstances, for example, whether the dwelling house had been previously extended and whether it is detached, semi-detached or terraced. In addition, the regulations contain a number of conditions designed to ensure the changes in relation to exempted development extensions do not result in any injury to the amenities of adjoining properties.
My Department has received correspondence in relation to the interpretation of these regulations suggesting that they are open to different interpretation. I am advised that the intent and purpose of the regulations are clear. I will avail of the opportunity offered by the comprehensive review of the exempted development regulations under way in my Department to review these specific provisions. It is intended that the new comprehensive exempted development regulations will be made early next year.
