Number of Local Area Plans has plummeted as planning resources are stretched

Number of Local Area Plans in place nationwide has fallen from 267 to 149 since 2010 
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Data compiled by Fianna Fáil’s Housing Spokesperson, Darragh O’Brien TD has revealed a significant reduction in the number of Local Area Plans in operation throughout Ireland. There are now almost 120 fewer areas without a localised blueprint now than 8 years ago.
Local Area Plans (LAPs) set out a distinct vision for villages and towns to expand and develop over a six year period. They are the foundation of the planning system and offer residents an opportunity to specify a vision for the future of their community.
O’Brien said, “What I’ve discovered is that at least 118 areas that previously had a Local Area Plan in place are now without a distinct, bespoke plan for their region and must rely on the high level county development.
“That essentially means that instead of developing more targeted approaches to local problems we are becoming more reliant on high level plans.
“At a time when we need more coherent local planning that invests in the future we risk losing that focus. The decline in Local Area Plans also exposes issues with resourcing in local authorities nationwide.
“We need to ensure they are fully equipped to carry out their jobs, foremost as planning authorities. We cannot allow a situation where best practise is abandoned has it appears to have been in this case” Deputy O’Brien concluded.