The Department’s Planning functions are split between two divisions - the Strategic Planning Division and Planning Policy Division.
Strategic Planning Division
Strategic Planning Division has overall responsibility for processing applications deemed to be of regional significance or those which may be ‘called-in’ from the Councils. Decisions on these will be made on a case by case basis.
Planning Policy Division
Planning Policy Division is responsible for developing planning legislation and policy in line with Ministerial direction.
The Department has published guidance on the application of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct with regard to planning matters. The Department also provides guidance to councillors as to how they should apply the principles and rules of the Code.
The Department also has responsibility for the provision and publication of Official Statistics relating to the overall development management function.
It monitors council progress across the 3 new statutory targets for major development applications, local development applications and enforcement cases and also Departmental performance against quantitative DOE Corporate Business Plan planning targets.
For further information you can visit the dedicated PlanningNI website
Crumlin Road Gaol
Since 2003 OFMDFM has invested over £17million to re-establish this iconic building as a highly significant public asset for Belfast. The restoration work has helped to promote and raise the profile of the Gaol as a key driver to maximise economic, cultural and community benefits to North Belfast and beyond.