AQW 7718/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 28/02/2024
Answered On Date: 14/03/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether there is any proposal to review the process in cases where there is a lengthy ongoing planning application, with multiple periodic changes involving notifications to neighbours and objectors, who must then repeatedly respond.

Answer:

The two-tier planning system established in 2015 transferred responsibility for processing the majority of planning applications to local government. Although my department has an oversight role in respect of the planning system and reports on system activity and performance, it does not interfere with councils’ rights and responsibilities in terms of the processing of planning applications.

Applicants often seek to amend development proposals prior to their determination, and it is for planning authorities to consider if such changes can be accommodated. Equally, the Planning Act requires that in determining any application for planning permission a council or the Department must take into account representations relating to that application which are received by it.

I remain committed to ensuring that our planning system continues to work in an efficient and effective way and intend to take some time to review the progress that has been made to date. Progress is however dependent on the resources available to key areas of the system.