Infrastructure Minister 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: www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/strategic-planning-policy-statement
Notes to editors:
1. The revised planning policy for renewable and low carbon
energy is set in the SPPS, Edition 2.
2. The policy is being published after a period of consultation
and Executive committee agreement.
3. 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.
