AQW 51719/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 11/09/2026
Answered On Date: 23/09/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, in relation to objections to planning applications, to detail (i) how material planning considerations, raised by objectors, are identified and assessed; (ii) how applicants are required to respond to issues raised through the consultation process; and (iii) how objectors are informed of how their concerns have been considered in reaching a decision.

Answer:

Planning officials will consider representations relating to a planning application which are received before a decision is made. Whilst there is no legal definition for material considerations, they are held to include all the fundamental factors involved in land-use planning.

The Department will consult with a range of statutory and non-statutory consultees to assist in the determination of a planning application and will take consultee comments into account before a decision is made. If a representation raises an issue that is relevant to the responsibilities of a consultee, the representation may be copied to the appropriate consultee for consideration and comment. Where further information is required to address issues raised in a consultee response, the Department will issue a written request to the applicant seeking the necessary information.

As you are aware, the progress of a planning application can be followed online using the Planning Portal. The Department does not generally respond to each comment made, but all comments are fully considered within the development management report.