AQO 3221/22-27

Mr John Blair
Alliance Party
South Antrim

Tabled Date: 19/02/2026
Answered On Date: 03/03/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline any engagement she has undertaken with local councils to encourage progress around outstanding Local Development Plans.

Answer:

I recognise the importance of the Local Development Plan programme in setting the long-term plan led framework for decision making.

Throughout the plan making process, my officials have met regularly with all councils regarding their Local Development Plans, and they continue to encourage regular engagement, both collectively and individually.

My officials have published guidance designed to aid councils and as part of the Planning Improvement Programme, they are in the process of updating this suite of Development Plan Practice Notes.

Good progress has been made. To date, six councils have adopted their Plan Strategies (PS), and all six are now advancing with Local Policies Plans (LPPs). Only two remaining councils have to publish their draft PS, and their timetables have indicated this will be within this year.