County Development Plan variation could support delivery of up to 15,000 homes

Meath County Council has agreed a variation to the Meath County Development Plan 2021–2027, aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes across the county.

The variation arises in response to Ministerial Guidelines issued in July 2025 under the revised National Planning Framework. These guidelines require local authorities to identify and bring forward lands suitable for residential development to help meet national housing targets by 2027.

In line with these requirements, Meath County Council undertook a comprehensive review of lands across the county with the potential to deliver housing within the lifetime of the current Development Plan.

This included an assessment of both existing zoned lands and lands previously de-zoned, with a strong focus on ensuring that any lands identified are feasible and capable of being developed within the required timeframe.

Following engagement with the elected members, the Council yesterday (Monday) resolved to bring forward a total of 92.44 hectares of land across 11 settlements, with the potential to deliver approximately 3,444 homes. Together with existing zoned lands, this could support the delivery of up to 15,000 homes over the remaining lifetime of the County Development Plan.

Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, Cllr Sarah Reilly, said: “This is a really important step in supporting the delivery of homes in our towns and villages.

By bringing forward lands that are ready and feasible for development, we are helping to ensure that housing can be delivered where it is needed most across Co Meath.”

Chief executive of Meath County Council, Kieran Kehoe added: “This variation ensures that the County Development Plan remains aligned with national policy and updated housing targets, while focusing on lands that can realistically be developed within the lifetime of the plan. It reflects a proactive and coordinated approach between the Planning Department and the elected members to support housing delivery.”

This variation will play an important role in strengthening housing supply across Meath, supporting sustainable growth in key settlements, and ensuring alignment with national planning policy.

The council will now progress the formal statutory process associated with the variation.