Development Plan Examinations
What is a development plan examination?
Part III of the Planning (Northern Ireland) Order 1991 provides for the making, alteration, repeal or replacement of development plans by the Department of the Environment. There is provision for publicity and objections. Article 7 states that the Department may cause an independent examination to be carried out by the Planning Appeals Commission for the purpose of considering such objections. Anyone who makes objections is entitled, on request, to be given an opportunity to appear before and be heard by the Commission.
What is the Commission’s role in relation to development plans?
The Commission reports to the Department with recommendations as to whether, and to what extent, changes should be made in response to the objections. The Department must consider the Commission’s report before deciding whether to adopt the plan, alteration, repeal or replacement, in whole or in part, or to reject it.
Procedures for Development Plan Examinations
The Commission’s procedures for independent examination of development plans can be viewed on the Publications page.
Commission Reports on Development Plan Examinations
Release of the Commission’s report on a development plan examination is a matter for the Department.
