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31 Dec 2025

New planning reforms aimed at boosting housing delivery welcomed by Louth senator

Changes under Planning and Development Act 2024

New planning reforms to boost housing delivery welcomed by Louth senator

Senator Alison Comyn at a new housing development in Muirhevnamore in June 2025

Reporter:

Jason Newman

31 Dec 2025 3:59 PM

Louth senator Alison Comyn has welcomed the new planning reforms coming into effect from 31 December, saying they will help local authorities plan more effectively and support the delivery of much-needed housing.
The changes, introduced under the Planning and Development Act 2024, include longer ten-year development plans, new area-based planning structures, and stronger requirements on councils to assess current and future housing needs, including affordable and cost-rental homes.
“These reforms are about making the planning system work better on the ground,” Senator Comyn said.
“Longer-term plans will bring greater certainty for communities and for those delivering housing, while still allowing flexibility where urgent action is needed.”
Senator Comyn said the new requirement for local authorities to assess housing need is particularly important in the context of ongoing housing pressures.
“Good planning must be based on real housing demand. These changes will help councils plan properly for population growth and ensure that affordable and cost-rental homes are part of the solution.”
She also welcomed the establishment of an Advisory Board for the Planning Regulator to support oversight and implementation of the reforms.
Senator Comyn paid tribute to Minister for Housing James Browne for his work on the legislation.
“The Minister for Housing, James Browne, is working hard to deliver genuine solutions to get houses built. These planning reforms are a vital part of that effort, ensuring that housing policy is backed up by a system that supports delivery.”
She said that the reforms strike a balance between housing delivery, protecting rural communities, and maintaining high environmental and design standards.
“These changes are about building the homes people need, while safeguarding the character and sustainability of our towns, villages and countryside."

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