A new series of online planning information leaflets will help put the citizen back into the heart of the planning process, a local Fine Gael Minister has stated.
Elected Longford-Westmeath Minister of State for Local Government and Planning, Peter Burke, launched the leaflets this week noting that they contain practical, accessible information on how the planning system works and explain how best to engage with it.
“Proper planning across our communities transforms lives. It is a complex process but the key ingredient is engagement and collaboration with local residents. Sometimes people see planning as the preserve of experts while struggling to engage with it.
“To put the citizen back into the heart of the planning process first takes proper knowledge, information and awareness raising. And we will need that awareness in planning for the rebound from Covid-19 and tackling climate, housing and other issues in how we develop.
“These leaflets are a small but crucial step in the work of the Office of the Planning Regulator established by Government to, amongst other things, enhance public awareness of the benefits of planning and its role in shaping communities for the common good.
“These leaflets replaces ones published back in the 1990s and will be an invaluable tool for the householder thinking of improving their home, the business person in developing their premises or anyone who wants to know more about planning and the key role they can play in it,” Deputy Burke remarked.
The leaflets are entitled introducing the planning system; a guide to the development plan; a guide to planning permission; a guide to making a planning application; a guide to making a planning appeal; a guide to planning enforcement in Ireland; a guide to applying for planning permission to build a house; a guide to doing work around the house; agricultural and farm development-the planning issues; a guide to planning for the business person; environmental assessments and planning in Ireland; a guide to architectural heritage; archaeology in the planning process and strategic infrastructure development.
The leaflets are available at www.opr.ie/planning-leaflets/ They will also be made available on the websites of local authorities, libraries, and citizen’s information centres and Minister Burke is happy to circulate a copy to any interested parties.
