This Action Plan has been published in response to ‘Recommendation 2’ of the Northern Ireland Audit Office Report ‘A Strategic Review of the Planning Appeals Commission’. As outlined in our published response to the NIAO report, the reporting period assessed by the NIAO covered a particular period in time and the Commission has moved on since. The “backlogs and long delays” referred to in the report no longer exist. Only one longstanding case remains in the appeal system for reasons beyond our control. All ‘Hear and Report’ cases are progressing with the exception of one which is also due to circumstances beyond the Commission's control.
Building upon the actions taken to date, the Commission will endeavour to adhere to the recommendations insofar as we can. The subject Recommendation advocated more certainty and confidence around the timescales for delivery of Commission caseloads. It recommended that we should develop and publish detailed plans to clear the long-standing cases in each workstream. These plans should include timelines for clearing backlogs and regular monitoring by NICTS. The plan can be accessed via this link