Simon Harris
Ceist:191 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to reform the planning system here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31542/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 28 June 2012
Ceisteanna (187)
Freagraí scríofa
As Minister for Housing and Planning I am responsible for ensuring that a strong policy and legislative framework exists to support the consistent operation of an efficient, effective and transparent planning system. Forward planning sets a clear hierarchy of plans from the National Spatial Strategy to Regional Planning Guidelines, Development Plans and Local Area Plans to ensure a clear strategic framework for decision making across the various spatial levels.
A very extensive suite of statutory planning guidelines across forward planning and development management is already in place to promote best practice in planning authorities. My Department is developing further guidance for planning authorities in a number of areas, for example, development contributions, and local area plans.
I am committed to a physical planning system that is better supported by:
evidence-based requirements linked to key Government strategic policies e.g. through the National Spatial Strategy and capital allocations;
a coherent basis to ensure planning and investment in infrastructure and services are focused on the most suitable locations;
tackling the legacy of over-zoning and moving towards a more joined up approach to the delivery of critical services such as schools, public transport, water services and social housing;
refocusing on revitalising city and town centres, and discouraging urban sprawl;
engaging more directly with elected members at a strategic level by requiring them to bring together, in a concise manner, the key priorities of their development plan; and
providing the necessary certainty about where development will take place.
The Planning Review Report I published, on 12 June 2012, together with the response to report of the Mahon Tribunal in regard to the planning recommendations, within the coming weeks, will form a package of further reforms to underpin a fair, open and transparent planning system.