O’Rourke welcomes decision on controversial fast-track planning process

The decision by the Government to replace the controversial fast-track planning process for Strategic Housing Developments (SHDs) with a new system which restores decision-making to local authorities has been warmly welcomed by Athlone Cllr Aengus O’Rourke, who said the move will give citizens “a real, meaningful voice.”

Cllr O’Rourke pointed out that the SHD process had resulted in approval being given for “two very controversial planning applications in Athlone,” one in Coosan, close to Buccaneers RFC and the other in Lissywoollen this year.

Despite the fact that he had “grave concerns” about elements of both schemes and had made “clear and detailed submissions” to An Bord Pleanála, as did many other people, including residents from both areas, Cllr O’Rourke said their concerns and observations were “simply ignored.”

According to the local public representative, the flaw in the SHD process was the fact that the schemes allowed for local authorities to be “leap-frogged, bypassed entirely.” He said neither local residents or elected members had any say in the process. “Everything hinged on the decision of An Bord Pleanála, and if you were not happy with that decision, a judicial review was the only option available, a very hostile and expensive route to take” said Cllr O’Rourke.

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD, received Government approval today (Tuesday) for the termination and replacement of Strategic Housing Development planning arrangements, which allowed for planning applications of 100 housing units or more, student accommodation or shared accommodation developments of 200 bed spaces or more, to be made directly to An Bord Pleanála for decision.

New streamlined arrangements are to be put in place for large-scale residential developments (LSRDs) which will restore decision-making to local authorities. The new arrangements are due to come into effect in the Autumn.

“These are very significant changes, restoring the primary decision-making function to local authorities, while also introducing mandatory timelines to ensure an efficient process for large-scale residential developments” said Minister O’Brien, who added that the new two-stage planning process will involve an initial application to the relevant local authority with the possibility of subsequent appeal to An Bord Pleanála.

Cllr Aengus O’Rourke said while the “horse has bolted” in relation to the two controversial SHD’s in Athlone “thankfully the Government have addressed the issue and put the matter right for any future developments in Athlone or elsewhere.”