Ailing developers have been thrown a lifeline by the State, which will allow a wider time frame for works to be progressed.

Investors who have been granted planning approval, but lack the resources to push the project forward, will be eligible for an extension to the time attached to their successful application.

Under the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2009 local authorities will be able to increase the customary five year 'window' to build an agreed project.

Usually if five years had lapsed a developer would be required to resubmit the scheme for approval.

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Section 23 of the new Bill outlines that if "the authority is satisfied that there were considerations of a commercial, economic or technical nature beyond the control of the applicant, which substantially mitigated against either the commencement of development or the carrying out of substantial works pursuant to the planning permission, the council may extend the time frame of the planning permission by a period in time up to five years at their discretion".

Several high-profile developments have fallen foul of the economic downturn, including the Number One Ballsbridge scheme, and €1bn refurbishment plans for Dublin's Burlington Hotel.

The Bill amends and extends the Planning and Development Act 2000 and the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001.

According to its memorandum, its aim is to support economic renewal and promote sustainable development by ensuring that the planning system supports targeted investment on infrastructure by the State.

(PR/JM)