The Department of Housing Planning and Local Government has published the following documents to provide clarifications on the operation of the planning system during the current COVID-19 emergency: Circular Circular PL 02/2020 – Planning and Development during the COVID-19 Emergency​ Publications FAQ – Order made under Section 251A of the Planning and Development, Act 2000, as amended, […]

The Government has agreed at the request of Eoghan Murphy T.D., Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government, to make an order, which has the effect of extending public participation periods in the planning system for a period of three weeks. The Minister said: “We find ourselves in unprecedented times. People have been asked to

Eoghan Murphy, T.D., Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government confirmed today that the planning and building control systems remain open for business. Measures being brought through the Dail today will only be activated if necessary and do not halt the planning system when passed. They are precautionary in nature and require a further Government

The second meeting of the National Planning Knowledge Group (NPKG) was held on 4 March 2020.  The purpose of the NPKG is to act as an advisory committee for the Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR) in meeting the OPR’s statutory mandate in relation to education, research and training functions. The NPKG includes representation from

The Planning Regulator, Niall Cussen addressed a workshop organised by the Irish Home Builders Association in Cork on Thursday, 5th March. The workshop was aimed at those engaged in house building and it intended to ensure that interested stakeholders were fully informed of the updated regulatory and economic environment affecting home builders. Speaking at the

The Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR) in conjunction with the Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) held its latest training seminar for elected members of local authorities last week on Thursday, 13th February (at the Kilmore Hotel in Cavan) and Saturday, 15th February (Dooley’s Hotel, Waterford) respectively.  The seminar provided information and guidance relevant

The Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR) in conjunction with the Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) is continuing its training programme for elected members of local authorities. The purpose of the training is to provide elected members with enhanced knowledge of the planning process, reaffirming their roles and responsibilities within the planning system and

Ireland’s longest running environmental series, Eco Eye has produced an episode which explores how good spatial planning can contribute to improved health and well-being. The programme also examines how effective planning can help reduce lengthy commutes, contribute to a reduction in our carbon footprint and facilitate the return of vibrancy to our towns. The episode

Planning at a local level must be aware of addressing issues such as access to green spaces, availability of recreational activities and proximity to places of employment, the Planning Regulator, Niall Cussen has said today. Addressing the Economic and Social Research Institute of Ireland’s (ESRI) conference; “Value of the local environment for health and well-being:

A new advisory body which will help shape and steer some of the work of the OPR has held its first meeting. The National Planning Knowledge Group will act as an advisory board to the OPR in meeting its statutory mandate in relation to education, research and training. The Group includes experts from third level