Kildare North TD James Lawless Hails Landmark Planning Bill As Opposition Raises Concerns

Thursday, 10 October 2024 10:42

By Martin Osborne

The Bill, lauded as one of the most significant legislative measures in the State's history, cleared its final hurdle on October 9 and now awaits signing by the President.

Amid criticism from opposition parties, Kildare North TD and Minister of State at the Department of Transport James Lawless, has hailed the successful passage of the Planning and Development Bill 2023 through both Houses of the Oireachtas.

The Bill, lauded as one of the most significant legislative measures in the State's history, cleared its final hurdle on October 9 and now awaits signing by the President.

The legislation aims to address long-standing inefficiencies in Ireland’s planning system, which has been a source of frustration for individuals and developers alike.

The reforms included in the Bill are designed to modernise and streamline the planning process for all types of projects, from rural homes to large-scale infrastructural developments.

Among the key provisions are statutory timelines for all consenting processes, a major reorganisation of An Bord Pleanála (to be renamed An Coimisiún Pleanála), and improvements to the planning judicial review processes.

The Bill also promotes greater alignment of planning across all tiers, encourages long-term strategic plans for local authorities, and includes measures to deter the abuse of planning processes.

Additional funding from Budget 2025 is expected to facilitate a smooth transition to the new regulatory framework.

"Local Authorities like Kildare County Council absolutely do need additional resources so that we can meet the ambitions of this Government for more homes and greater infrastructure," Deputy Lawless said.

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