By Róise Collins
The Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council has voiced his frustration with An Bord Pleanála during a recent meeting of the Lifford Stranorlar MD.
The Ballybofey based Councillor Martin Harley told the meeting that a number of contractors have reached out to him regarding delays within the planning body and how this has impacted construction locally.
Cllr Harley explained that many of the contractors have sites ready to go but are trapped in planning limbo.
He gave the example of one estate in Ballybofey, where 24 houses have been granted planning permission.
In the estate ten per cent of the homes have also ring fenced as council houses.
But all of these potential homes are now stalled because of delays at An Bord Pleanála.
He said this “can’t keep going on” as it is having a detrimental impact in areas such as the Twin Towns where there is an acute housing shortage.
He also stressed that this is a problem impacting people across the country.
“I was told that nationally there are 70,000 units, between houses and apartments, sitting with An Bord Pleanála.
“70,000 units would sort the housing crisis over night.”
Cllr Harley said there are also concerns for those who have been delayed as a tax on land zoned for residential use is set to be introduced in early 2024.
The Cathaoirleach has questioned if these delays are down to a staffing issue within the planning body, and is urging the council to write to the Minister for Housing for answers.
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