Planning exemptions will boost rural communities, says Carrigy

Proposed planning exemptions will deliver a boost for farmers, Oireachtas Housing Committee chair Micheál Carrigy, TD.

He said Minister of State for Housing John Cummins has outlined draft changes including an increase in size limits for agricultural structures that qualify for planning exemptions.

Under the proposals, the allowance for animal housing under Class 6 of Part 3 would rise from 200 to 300 square metres, and the overall total limit from 300 to 450 square metres.

A new exemption for stand-alone slurry storage up to 1,000 cubic metres, subject to a farm limit of 1,500 cubic metres, is included.

“These measures will help farmers manage slurry and runoff, reduce costs, and support more sustainable practices,” Deputy Carrigy said.

“They will strengthen Ireland’s efforts to retain the nitrates derogation and improve water quality,” he added.

He said the exemptions would not apply where an Environmental Impact Assessment or Appropriate Assessment is required.

Minister Cummins has also proposed extending the commercial-to-residential planning exemption until December 31, 2028. Between 2018 and 2024, the scheme enabled 3,429 new homes across the country.