Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 January 2010
17 Deputy Shane McEntee asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the current retail planning guidelines; if further amendments are being considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2550/10]
Amharc ar fhreagra284 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the proposals or planned timeframe for a review of the retail planning guidelines 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2819/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 284 together.
Since the Department's Retail Planning Guidelines came into force in 2001, Ireland has undergone considerable change in terms of economic and social development, particularly in relation to population expansion and settlement patterns. In this period, there has been a considerable expansion of retail infrastructure and services which has been positive in facilitating greater competition in the retail sector. In addition, retail strategies have been prepared by all planning authorities as part of their development plan functions.
Given changed economic circumstances, it is important that the forward planning context for future retail development remains robust and realistic. My Department is currently drafting a consultation paper to inform the scope of a focused review of the Retail Planning Guidelines. This will allow stakeholders and interested parties to assist in identifying key issues for inclusion in draft revised guidelines, which will issue for public consultation before their finalisation at the end of this year.
