Hannigan planning review will improve meath planning

Planning decisions in Co Meath are set to become more transparent and publicly accountable following the announcement this week of a review by independent experts into how the state planning body, An Bord Pleanala, operates.

According to Labour TD, Dominic Hannigan, the initiative backed by Environment Minister Alan Kelly will make 'a huge difference' to the planning process in Meath and elsewhere.

'It has been prompted by a recent case where the High Court overturned a decision by An Bord Pleanala to grant permission for two wind farms in Roscommon,' he said.

The terms of reference have yet to be decided but the review will look at issues such as the Bord's operating systems, its decision making process on planning appeals, and its communication with both the public and elected representatives.

'I hope that this review can also look at ways in which the concerns of local people can be heard more effectively,' added Deputy Hannigan. 'Planning is a huge issue in Meath and across the country, and we must ensure that our authorities are properly equipped to deal with the surge in building activity that is expected as the economy recovers.'

He continued: 'We have to get the strategic balance right between planning that is sensitive to community needs but which also enables us to take economic advantage of increased construction and other developments.'

Deputy Hannigan believes that An Bord Pleanala must have the full confidence and trust of the public, and this review will help achieve that.

'In the long run it will lead to greater consistency, transparency and awareness among the public of how the planning body makes its decisions,' he concluded.