A radical shake-up of the planning system has been announced today, with the launch of an online application process.

According to Irish Environment Minister John Gormley, the ePlanning policy will improve the process for developers, and make it more efficient for both individuals and planning authorities.

As well as enabling online applications, third parties will also be able to raise objections to proposals over the internet system.

The new process is already up and running in Dublin on a pilot basis for small applications.

A system in operation within Mayo is being tested by several planning agents, leading to greater integration with all agents later this year.

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"On-line planning makes complete sense. It will lower costs and increase efficiencies for the planning authorities, applicants and third parties. It will make the planning system more accessible and easier to use for all," said Minister Gormley.

"In our current paper system we have huge inefficiencies which make no sense. For example most planning applications and designs are drawn up on computer.

"They then have to be printed out and six copies made, at considerable expense, to be submitted to the planning authority. The planners then have to scan on to computer the printed applications.

"It's a similar situation for any third party submissions. A fully on-line system for smaller applications can eliminate the significant costs of this cumbersome procedure."

However, the Minister said the online system is at present best suited to smaller application.

Mr Gormley suggested technical issues such as maps and drawing for larger developments were currently being examined.

(PR/BMcC)