New planning policy can balance the drive to decarbonise energy use, alongside protection of our environment and communities - Kimmins
Date published:
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has today published new regional strategic planning policy for renewable and low carbon energy development, following public consultation and Executive Committee agreement to it.
Following a focused review of the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS), the new policy in the SPPS, Edition 2 includes provisions to support proposals to re-power, expand and extend solar and wind farms, unless impacts are unacceptable; provides greater flexibility in relation to separation distances for wind farms; and provides improved support for emerging technologies.
Minister Kimmins said:
“Tackling Climate Change is a priority consideration for the Executive and the work and functions of my department in relation to water, transport and planning.
The planning policy framework I am introducing is designed to help support the wider ambitions of the Executive by enabling appropriate development and associated infrastructure that can make a positive contribution towards reducing emissions and decarbonising energy use across the region in the long-term public interest. The policy also seeks to ensure that the importance of our climate change commitments and protection of our valued natural landscapes and built environment are carefully balanced alongside the protection of our communities.”
Minister Kimmins added:
“This policy will take effect immediately. It is a key measure necessary to support The Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, and the Energy Strategy and associated Action Plan.
It must be taken into account by councils in the preparation of Local Development Plans, and is also material to all decisions on individual planning applications and appeals.”
The SPPS, Edition 2 can be found at: https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/strategic-planning-policy-statement
Notes to editors:
- The revised planning policy for renewable and low carbon energy is set in the SPPS, Edition 2.
- The policy is being published after a period of consultation and Executive committee agreement.
- The former SPPS published on 28 September 2015 is revoked and replaced and therefore the former subject policy titled “Renewable Energy” ceases to have effect from the date of this publication.
- All media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office at: press.office@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk
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