Environment Minister Mark H Durkan today launched a 12 week consultation on proposals for planning reform and its transfer to new councils.

The Minister is seeking views on the improvements he intends to introduce in planning as a result of the new two-tier system in Northern Ireland.

Under the review of public administration (RPA), responsibility for the majority of planning functions will transfer to the new councils in April 2015 who will operate as the local planning authorities for their areas.

The changes will see the return of local accountability to the planning system. Councils will be responsible for developing their own local development plan setting the context for development proposals in the future. They will also determine the vast majority of planning applications with only a small percentage of regionally significant applications being decided by the Department of the Environment. Councils will also take the lead on all enforcement activity where there have been alleged breaches of planning control.

-- Advertisement --

Mark H Durkan said: "The proposals I am putting forward for public consultation will deliver a planning system that is faster, fairer and fit for purpose and which will support the economic and social development of the North. It puts the majority of planning functions back where they belong, at local level, with local accountability, through our new 11 district councils.

"This is an exciting time for planning and I recognise the challenges that the new reformed two-tier planning system will present to key stakeholders. Councils will be in the driving seat in drawing up a development plan for their area which reflects agreed local priorities. This work of engagement and debate will set the backdrop for development proposals and provides a great opportunity to set out the hopes and aspirations for the newly established councils.

"While my proposals lay the foundations for this longer-term place-shaping, they will also deliver immediate benefits when powers transfer to councils. They will support faster decision making which is great news for business and the economy as well as more effective enforcement as soon as councils take up the reins in April 2015. The system will also be transparent and managed within a strong system of governance and ethical requirements. I believe this will satisfy the very reasonable expectations of the public and provide strong support to councillors taking on these new responsibilities."

(CD/IT)