Northern Ireland Executive agree transfer of planning powers

The devolution of powers is part of a package of functions to be transferred which the NI Executive agreed this week. It also includes powers relating to roads, urban regeneration and community development, housing and local economic development. 

The move will see the bulk of planning powers, including development plan functions, development control and enforcement, be transferred to 11 new district councils which will be responsible and accountable for most planning decisions. 

The measures to allow the transfer were set out in the Planning (Northern Ireland) Act 2011 and form part of a major reform programme for the NI planning system first announced in 2007. The NI Government said it has set up a project board and a project team to take forward the work involved. 

“This is all about bringing power closer to citizens," said Attwood in a statement. "I welcome Executive colleagues’ endorsement of proposals to transfer powers to Local Councils and this will become reality in April 2015. The more power in local hands, the more democratic our society and the more likely that local people will get the local services they need".

“With planning and development plans transferred, Councils will have the opportunity to shape the life of the Council area so that it is better planned and offers better job potential. They will have economic powers strengthened, especially for young people and women. Councils will have opportunity to boost local tourism in their areas," Attwood said.

“Getting all of this right will help transform the way we plan and sustain our cities, towns and rural areas while boosting our economy and protecting our environment," he added. 

The NI Government introduced a new Planning Bill in January which aims to speed up reforms and modernise the planning system in advance of the 2015 transfer.