Last April, Northern Ireland’s planning system received its biggest shake-up in over forty years. Planning powers were returned to local councils for the first time since 1972.
Since then, we have seen significant progress. The much-delayed Single Planning Policy Statement was published last September. And, recently, Antrim and Newtownabbey became the first Council to start work on its Local Development Plan.
However, there are still significant questions to be answered. How, for instance, is the new Councillor Code of Conduct working in practice? How can Councils ensure that their Communities’ views are reflected in policy? And will the new system be streamlined and efficient enough to avoid delays, and encourage investment?
On 24 March, Chambré Public Affairs – in association with the Construction Employers Federation and Turley – will hold a landmark conference on the new planning system. Chaired by BBC Radio Ulster’s Seamus McKee, the event promises a constructive discussion, within the impressive surroundings of QUB’s Riddel Hall. The influential speaker line-up includes senior Council and Departmental officials, as well as sector leaders.
We hope you’ll take this opportunity to attend, and put forward your views on how to get the best outcomes for our local communities and our region.
To review our impressive speaker line-up, please click here to view a programme for the event.
