The Irish Planning Institute (IPI) has today (15th January 2015) welcomed the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government’s “Planning Policy Statement 2015” setting out the Government’s key principles and policy priorities for planning. 

Discussing the Policy Statement IPI President Mary Hughes said “An overall Planning Policy Statement is something the Institute has long called for. It is essential that proper planning and sustainable development is at the heart of national, regional and local decision making. Planning affects the quality of life of everyone. We are pleased that the statement highlights the role of public participation, professionalism, transparency and accountability in the planning process. We look forward to seeing the principles of the statement implemented in forthcoming planning legislation, the Office of the Planning Regulator arising from the Mahon Tribunal and in the successor the National Spatial Strategy.”