To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on timescales concerning the review of the implementation of the Planning Act (NI) 2011.

As you are aware my Department issued a Call for Evidence to targeted stakeholders which closed on 16 April 2021. This attracted 55 responses from a diverse range of stakeholders including, all 11 local councils, professional bodies, electricity/renewables and business sectors, environmental NGOs, community and housing interests, academia and several political parties. My officials are currently assessing these responses, some of which are long, complex and detailed. As careful consideration will need to be given to the issues which have emerged from the Call for Evidence, this will obviously take time.

I will then give careful consideration to the responses to determine whether any suggested amendment, retention or repeal of associated provisions would assist in better achieving the objectives of the 2011 Planning Act. In addition, it will be necessary to determine whether changes (if implemented) would require amendment to primary and/or subordinate legislation, or could be effected through guidance or other means.

I anticipate that the associated review report will be published later this year.