To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether consideration is being given to the introduction of the right of appeal as part of Review of the 2011 Planning Act.

The legislative and structural changes to the planning system which came into effect with the new two-tier system in 2015 are designed to deliver an inclusive, front-loaded system with stronger third party engagement and local democratic accountability. My concerns with the introduction of third party rights of appeal would be the risk of undermining this, reducing certainty and the effectiveness and efficiency of the planning system at this critical time.

However, I am aware that the issue of third-party rights of appeal has been raised by some respondents in the recent call for evidence on the Review of the Implementation of the Planning Act (NI) 2011, and at fact finding events held by the Planning Engagement Partnership. I will give consideration to the evidence presented through those processes.