Northern Ireland Planning System Insights

Northern Ireland Planning System Insights

The planning system is often perceived as complex and adversarial, presenting barriers to development and public satisfaction. Success requires overcoming these challenges by embedding continuous improvement and promoting a culture where planners act as facilitators, not barriers. This episode explores the Department for Infrastructure’s (DFI) central role in setting strategic direction and its priorities, including the Planning Improvement Programme and the complex timeline for Local Development Plans. We discuss the increasing legislative complexity, resourcing, and the potential for mutual learning through cross-border collaboration. Host Sean O'Leary is joined by Rosemary Daly, Northern Ireland’s Chief Planner, and Philip McGowan, Joint Head of Regional Planning Policy with the Department for Infrastructure. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Planning is a cognitive, creative process DFI's central leadership role explained Improving efficiency via the planning programme Complexity challenges and judicial process Cross-border professional learning and growth QUOTES Good planning is fundamentally a cognitive discipline before it becomes a technical one. - Philip McGowan The thing that really attracts me to planning is there is something for everyone. - Rosemary Daly I see planning, especially policy planning, as a creative, deep thinking cognitive process. - Philip McGowan The big takeaway for me is the more we work together, the better we will achieve in the world of planning. - Rosemary Daly GUEST DETAILS Rosemary Daly is Chief Planner and Director of Regional Planning, Governance, and Legislation at the Department for Infrastructure (DFI). She has almost thirty years of planning experience, including private consultancy and eighteen years as a commissioner at the Planned Appeals Commission. Her skills include insight into development delivery and a passion for planning's link to community.  Philip McGowan is a Principal Planner and Joint Head of Regional Planning Policy at DFI. He is a policy expert, instrumental in delivering the Strategic Planning Policy Statement and creating new policy for safeguarding established residential areas. Connect with the Irish Planning Institute: Website: ipi.ie Podfollow: podfollow.com/ipi Search podcast player: "IPI Planners Podcast" PODCAST HOST DETAILS Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI is a highly respected Senior Planner at the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) and a key voice in the field of Irish planning.  With extensive experience and a deep understanding of planning policy and practice, Dr. O'Leary brings a wealth of knowledge to "The Planners' Podcast."  Professionals and enthusiasts alike seek to navigate the complexities of urban and rural development in Ireland. As a member of the Irish Planning Institute (MIPI), Dr. O'Leary demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of the planning profession.  Find out more: https://ipi.ie/ ABOUT THE IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTE The Irish Planning Institute (IPI) is the all-island professional body for planners in Ireland, dedicated to advancing the field of physical, spatial, and environmental planning for the common good. Established in 1975, the IPI plays a vital role in shaping sustainable development across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Through its diverse membership, which includes professionals from public, private, and academic sectors, the IPI offers a unified voice on critical planning issues. Find out more: https://ipi.ie/ The Planners Podcast is produced for IPI by dustpod.io KEYWORDS #NorthernIreland #PlanningReform #PolicyPlanning #CrossBorder #PublicInterest

Planning Law: Reform, Litigation, Future

Planning today is shaped by major legislative reform, including the Planning and Development Act 2024 and the Critical Infrastructure Bill, climate and environmental obligations, and legal scrutiny. In this episode Deirdre Nagle, Partner and Head of the Planning and Environment Law team at Mason Hayes & Curran LLP, brings us up to date with these issues and discusses the need for planners to be brave in decision making. Deirdre is Partner and Head of the Planning and Environment Law team at Mason Hayes & Curran LLP. Her extensive expertise includes advising on the planning aspects of major state infrastructure projects, particularly in the energy sector. Deirdre practises in both contentious and non-contentious planning and environmental law. She has extensive experience in advising and acting for state bodies on major projects relating to all aspects of the consenting process including compulsory acquisition. Prior to joining Mason Hayes & Curran Deirdre worked for a state body responsible for the development of energy infrastructure. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Critical Infrastructure Bill Planning and Development Act 2024 Exempted Development Regulations RED III Case law including Coolglass  QUOTES The system, you just have to get through it as quickly as possible. There's no point railing against it, just get on with it. - Deirdre Nagle You can introduce legislation and tell people they have to coordinate, they have to fast track, but do they have the resources?  - Deirdre Nagle You just have to kind of prepare for these things to happen and go through the process. -  Deirdre Nagle GUEST DETAILS Deirdre Nagle is a Partner at the law firm Mason Hayes and Curran. She is a leading practitioner in planning and environmental law. Her expertise includes advising on complex planning projects from strategic planning to consenting and judicial review. Deirdre is passionate about moving infrastructure, housing, and renewable energy projects forward. Connect with Deirdre:  https://www.mhc.ie/people/deirdre-nagle https://www.mhc.ie/practice-areas/planning-and-environment-law Connect with the Irish Planning Institute: Website: ipi.ie Podfollow: podfollow.com/ipi Search podcast player: "IPI Planners Podcast" PODCAST HOST DETAILS Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI is a highly respected Senior Planner at the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) and a key voice in the field of Irish planning.  With extensive experience and a deep understanding of planning policy and practice, Dr. O'Leary brings a wealth of knowledge to "The Planners' Podcast."  Professionals and enthusiasts alike seek to navigate the complexities of urban and rural development in Ireland. As a member of the Irish Planning Institute (MIPI), Dr. O'Leary demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of the planning profession.  Find out more: https://ipi.ie/ ABOUT THE IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTE The Irish Planning Institute (IPI) is the all-island professional body for planners in Ireland, dedicated to advancing the field of physical, spatial, and environmental planning for the common good. Established in 1975, the IPI plays a vital role in shaping sustainable development across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Through its diverse membership, which includes professionals from public, private, and academic sectors, the IPI offers a unified voice on critical planning issues. Find out more: https://ipi.ie/ The Planners Podcast is produced for IPI by dustpod.io KEYWORDS #PlanningLaw #DevelopmentAct #JudicialReview #ClimateAction #InfrastructureProjects

Planning Reform: An Coimisiún Pleanála CEO Peter Mullan

The planning system in Ireland faces monumental pressure, demanding not only efficient decision-making but also the highest standards of trust and governance. The challenge of meeting mandatory timelines while navigating complex legal and environmental factors requires a focused strategic approach to reform. This episode explores the critical changes underway at An Coimisiún Pleanála and the leadership driving a major cultural shift. The discussion delves into how the organisation has dramatically cleared its substantial case backlog, the impact of new governance structures, and the strategic push to digital transformation, including exploring the use of Artificial Intelligence. We also examine the difficult reality of the tightening timelines imposed by planning reforms and the Red III Directive for renewable energy applications. We are joined by Peter Mullan, CEO of An Coimisiún Pleanála and former Chair of An Bord Pleanála. Having transitioned from a long career in criminal law and public service, Peter shares his journey, his priorities for the organisation, and his commitment to restoring and protecting public confidence. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT - Peter Mullan's career transition to planning. - New An Coimisiún Pleanála governance structure. - Clearing the extensive planning case backlog. - Responding to Red 3 Directive timelines. - Building trust after corporate governance failures. QUOTES - Oonagh Buckley said, Look, I really need people to come over to assist this organisation in its time of trouble. - Peter Mullan - The organisation itself has come an awful long way in three years. - Peter Mullan - Let's not forget that we're all here to support our 15 commissioners who make their planning decisions at the end of the day. - Peter Mullan GUEST DETAILS Peter Mullan is the CEO of An Coimisiún Pleanála, Ireland's national planning body. His career journey is a unique blend of criminal law and senior public service management, including roles in the Office of the DPP and the Department of Justice. Peter has been instrumental in leading extensive reforms and driving the organisation’s culture change. Connect with the Irish Planning Institute: - Website: ipi.ie - Podfollow: podfollow.com/ipi - Search podcast player: "IPI Planners Podcast" PODCAST HOST DETAILS Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI is a highly respected Senior Planner at the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) and a key voice in the field of Irish planning.  With extensive experience and a deep understanding of planning policy and practice, Dr. O'Leary brings a wealth of knowledge to "The Planners' Podcast."  Professionals and enthusiasts alike seek to navigate the complexities of urban and rural development in Ireland. As a member of the Irish Planning Institute (MIPI), Dr. O'Leary demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of the planning profession.  Find out more: https://ipi.ie/ ABOUT THE IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTE The Irish Planning Institute (IPI) is the all-island professional body for planners in Ireland, dedicated to advancing the field of physical, spatial, and environmental planning for the common good. Established in 1975, the IPI plays a vital role in shaping sustainable development across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Through its diverse membership, which includes professionals from public, private, and academic sectors, the IPI offers a unified voice on critical planning issues. https://ipi.ie/ The Planners Podcast is produced for IPI by dustpod.io KEYWORDS #IrishPlanning #AnCoimisiúnPleanála #PlanningReform #JudicialReview #PlanningTimelines

Planning’s Future: AI And Place Making

The planning profession is facing unprecedented change. Immediate adaptation is demanded as urban environments are reshaped by climate pressures, technological disruption, and the urgent need for housing and infrastructure. This episode tackles these monumental challenges by sharing fresh thinking and practical perspectives on the way forward. The conversation explores major forces driving change: from climate action and infrastructure finance to the role of AI in moving planning's focus from development control to strategic place making. We are joined by Alice Charles, a Chartered Town Planner and registered member of the Irish Planning Institute. Alice is the Director for Cities, Planning & Design at Arup, where she advises governments and city leaders worldwide on building more resilient, inclusive, and liveable urban environments. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Inclusion motivated early planning studies Global mega-trends shaping urban development Financing is essential for infrastructure delivery Vacancy is the short-term housing crisis leak Future planners need design and finance skills QUOTES When I meet with planners in the Nordics, they focus most of their time on forward planning, on place making, on bringing forward regeneration systems, and particularly with AI. Will we need so many people focused on development control in the future? - Alice Charles If we are going to bring about change, we've got to demonstrate that it has a return on investment, that it delivers multiple benefits, so our health, our well being, resiliency, as well as admission. -  Alice Charles  I think what we need to get back to is really focusing on place making. -  Alice Charles GUEST DETAILS Alice Charles is a Director for Cities, Planning & Design at Arup, where she focuses on delivering cross-cutting urban strategy projects globally. A Chartered Town Planner, she is an expert in urban strategy and design, having advised governments, international organisations, and city leaders worldwide on creating more resilient, inclusive, and liveable urban environments. Her achievements include leading the World Economic Forum’s cities work for nearly nine years and serving as an external member of the NAMA Planning Advisory Committee. Connect with the Irish Planning Institute: Website: ipi.ie Podfollow: podfollow.com/ipi Search podcast player: "IPI Planners Podcast" PODCAST HOST DETAILS Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI is a highly respected Senior Planner at the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) and a key voice in the field of Irish planning. With extensive experience and a deep understanding of planning policy and practice, Dr. O'Leary brings a wealth of knowledge to "The Planners' Podcast." Professionals and enthusiasts alike seek to navigate the complexities of urban and rural development in Ireland. As a member of the Irish Planning Institute (MIPI), Dr. O'Leary demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of the planning profession.  Find out more: https://ipi.ie/ ABOUT THE IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTE The Irish Planning Institute (IPI) is the all-island professional body for planners in Ireland, dedicated to advancing the field of physical, spatial, and environmental planning for the common good. Established in 1975, the IPI plays a vital role in shaping sustainable development across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Through its diverse membership, which includes professionals from public, private, and academic sectors, the IPI offers a unified voice on critical planning issues. Find out more: https://ipi.ie/ The Planners Podcast is produced for IPI by dustpod.io KEYWORDS #PlanningFuture #UrbanRegeneration #InfrastructureFinance #ClimateAction #PlaceMaking

Spatial Data Transforms Irish Planning

The transition to evidence-informed, data-driven planning is a professional necessity, yet many local authorities still face significant challenges in integrating and interpreting spatial data to meet national objectives.  The effective use of national data infrastructure, visualisation tools, and a new generation of digital skills is required to deliver complex housing, climate, and infrastructure projects across Ireland. This episode explores the power of spatial data, including insights from the National Census Atlas, data storytelling techniques for planners, and the emerging capabilities of Artificial Intelligence in the sector. Joining host Sean O'Leary is Justin Gleeson, Director of the All-Island Research Observatory (AIRO) at Maynooth University. With extensive experience in GIS and spatial analysis, Justin has spent years helping planners and policymakers leverage data, and was a long-standing Board Member of Ordnance Survey Ireland. Guest Details Justin Gleeson is the Director of the All-Island Research Observatory (AIRO) at Maynooth University and Director of People and Place Limited, a planning analytics company, based in Clare, Galway and Maynooth. He is a key leader in the national data infrastructure of Ireland, with core skills in geographical information systems, spatial analysis, and improving public data usage. Justin also served as a Board Member of Ordnance Survey Ireland (OSi) and is a current member of the Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR) National Planning Knowledge Group. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Integrating spatial data into plans Housing delivery data gaps persist Ireland’s changing demographic age profile National data resources for planners AI's new role in planning QUOTES Data is very much at the forefront. Even at government department level, or at local authority level, chief executives, they're expecting to see metrics. - Justin Gleeson The most important thing is coming up with the idea of what's required, and that needs to come from the planning sector, whether it's senior planners or directors of services. - Justin Gleeson Technology has changed so much in the last number of years... The ability to build these tools is no longer a problem because it's very straightforward. - Justin Gleeson  Connect with the Irish Planning Institute: Website: ipi.ie Podfollow: podfollow.com/ipi Search podcast player: "IPI Planners Podcast" PODCAST HOST DETAILS Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI is a highly respected Senior Planner at the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) and a key voice in the field of Irish planning.  With extensive experience and a deep understanding of planning policy and practice, Dr. O'Leary brings a wealth of knowledge to "The Planners' Podcast."  Professionals and enthusiasts alike seek to navigate the complexities of urban and rural development in Ireland. As a member of the Irish Planning Institute (MIPI), Dr. O'Leary demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of the planning profession.  Find out more: https://ipi.ie/ ABOUT THE IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTE The Irish Planning Institute (IPI) is the all-island professional body for planners in Ireland, dedicated to advancing the field of physical, spatial, and environmental planning for the common good. Established in 1975, the IPI plays a vital role in shaping sustainable development across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Through its diverse membership, which includes professionals from public, private, and academic sectors, the IPI offers a unified voice on critical planning issues. Find out more: https://ipi.ie/ The Planners Podcast is produced for IPI by dustpod.io KEYWORDS #SpatialData #IrishPlanning #GISforPlanners #HousingSupply #InfraData