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Development Plans

Development Plans set out a local framework for the development of land. In Northern Ireland, they are prepared by the Department of the Environment in consultation with local councils

The role of Development Plans in the planning process

Development Plans usually cover a 15 year period but can be reviewed and amended as necessary during this time. Their aim is to ensure that there is enough land available for the expected needs for the area in terms of housing, employment and community facilities etc. while at the same time, protecting significant landscape and environmental features. Their contents are an important consideration in dealing with planning applications.

There are various types of Development Plans:

  • Area Plans – these cover one or more council areas and are the main type of Development Plan
  • Local Plans – these cover a smaller area, such as a town centre
  • Subject Plans – these deal with a particular type of development within a particular area

Preparing a Development Plan

The preparation of a Development Plan involves a number of key stages including public consultation. Plans consist of a written statement and relevant maps as well as additional reports providing background and technical information.  Development plans are often accompanied by other assessments such as Strategic Environmental Assessments and Equality Impact Assessments.

Regional Development Strategy

In September 2001, the Department for Regional Development (DRD) published the Regional Development Strategy for Northern Ireland 2025. This provides a long term view on the future development of Northern Ireland to 2025 and is subject to an ongoing review process. It sets out the number of new homes that will be needed in each council area and contains guidance on the future development of cities, towns and rural areas as well as on the environment, economy and transport.

DRD is also responsible for the regional transportation strategy which sets out how the transportation system will be developed over the 10 year period and identifies where money will be spent on transport initiatives.

Planning Policy Statements

Planning Policy Statements set out policies on particular topics such as telecommunications or the built heritage or may also show the policies in place for a particular area of land such as the countryside. These policies apply to the whole of Northern Ireland and are taken into account when assessing planning applications.

Supplementary planning guidance

Planning  also sometimes produces guidance and advice on matters such as design and conservation areas to supplement its development plans and policy documents.

Monitoring

Planning surveys the amount of new housing built and land available for future development and publishes the results in a summary report each year. This assists it in monitoring progress towards the implementation of policies and development plans and provides information for the construction industry and other interested parties, including government departments.

Reform of the Development Plan System

Planning  is currently undertaking a comprehensive reform of the planning system. It is anticipated that the new arrangements will be finalised following wide public consultation and introduced following the transfer of planning functions to the new local councils in 2011.

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