Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 April 2024
55. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage what is the legislative, statutory and regulatory framework for the provision of public green space in urban areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15686/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe First Schedule to the Planning and Development Act 2000 provides that planning authorities may include objectives in their development plan facilitating the provision and siting of facilities necessary for the community, including open spaces and sports grounds.
While the making of a development plan is a reserved function of the elected members, the Development Plans Guidelines for Planning Authorities (2022) require that consideration must be given to the future availability of (or the capacity to provide) supporting local community and amenity services and infrastructure, including recreation and sports facilities.
The Sustainable Residential Development and Compact Settlements Guidelines (2024) indicate that planning authorities should plan for an integrated hierarchy of multifunctional public open spaces and corridors across the plan area that meet the needs of the planned population, are accessible, provide for the recreational needs of the planned population and create space for nature and ecosystem services. The Guidelines indicate that this integrated network of well-designed neighbourhoods that can meet day-to-day needs (including sporting needs) within a 10 to 15-minute walk of all homes. In the case of larger settlements, the residents of less central neighbourhoods should have opportunities to travel by public transport and other sustainable modes such as greenways to access higher order services and amenities at more central and accessible locations.
In granting permission for a development under section 34 of the Act a planning authority may attach conditions, which may, at the discretion of the planning authority, include conditions requiring the provision and maintenance of open spaces. Similar provisions apply to An Bord Pleanála when considering an appeal under section 37.
Facilities to be funded by development contributions schemes made by elected members under section 48 of the Act, and conditions attached to permissions requiring contributions to be made towards such schemes, may include open spaces, and recreational and community facilities.
In accordance with section 63(3) of the Local Government Act 2001, local authorities are independent in the performance of their functions.
