Troy welcomes planning permissions extension Bill

Local Fianna Fáil Minister Robert Troy has welcomed Cabinet approval for priority drafting of the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2025 which will enable extensions in permissions to be made on housing developments that are nearing the end of their duration period and have not yet commenced.

The Bill will also allow for the duration of the Judicial Review period to not be counted as part of the effective life of the planning permission, avoiding a situation whereby in the past planning permissions have expired due to delays caused by the this particular process.

"There is clear evidence that many housing permissions are due to expire soon without any work having commenced, and calls have grown for an extension mechanism. We are making an important and practical decision today to ensure sufficient time is given to activate planning permissions for much-needed housing across the country.

"This Bill will allow current holders of planning permission, for housing developments that have not yet commenced, will be able to apply for an extension of up to three years. To qualify, they must apply within six months of the legislation commencing and begin construction within 18 months of that date.," Minister Troy said.

In addition, the Bill provides for a retrospective suspension of the permission duration for developments delayed due to Judicial Review proceedings ensuring that developers are not penalised for legal delays beyond their control.

“This is a common-sense change. The clock currently doesn’t stop during a Judicial Review, meaning valid planning permissions can expire while legal proceedings are ongoing. This Bill corrects that, reinstating lost time so developments can move forward," Minister Troy concluded.