This is an attempt to streamline all planning submissions which originate from An Taisce. The following pack will give clear and easy to use standard paragraphs which can be used in submissions and also a template letter which all Local Associations should use, showing consistency and unity within the planning section of the organisation

This pack should be read in conjunction with the ‘Handbook on Planning Procedure for An Taisce Local Associations’ which was produced in 2004. The Handbook deals with a wider range of information for the planning section of each Local Association, while this pack deals primarily with standardising our primary submissions to planning referrals from the Local Authorities. This pack is supplementary to the Handbook and is less technical and more straightforward for everyday use in fulfilling An Taisce’s role in the planning process.

The standard paragraphs in this pack should help to make the planning submission process less time consuming for the Local Associations and also leave more time to deal with planning appeals and observations which can both be very lengthy procedures. The standard paragraphs can be used as a basis for a submission which local knowledge can then be added to, to give weight to the submission.

The template shown in this pack illustrates the layout which submissions from Tailors’ Hall take. If there are any suggestions on how to improve any of the information provided in this pack please contact Tailors’ Hall, planning is ever evolving and changing as we believe this pack should be and any comments or ideas are always welcome.

To reiterate some important points which are covered in the Handbook;

·         It is important for the Local Association to actively participate in the planning process and to make submissions on applications which are of strategic importance and those which set an unwelcome precedent in the Local Authority area and nationally. Local Associations should prioritise its outputs in accordance with the order of preference referred in the Conclusion of Chapter 2 of the Handbook.

·         Assessments must be made within the context of Sustainable Development-i.e. the maintenance of environmental, economic and social balance; within the planning policy context relevant to the development in question and it must be based on the context of the application at local, county, and regional level (if appropriate). Sustainable development is a model for development which acknowledges the interdependent relationship of economic, environmental and social considerations. It integrates economic, social and environmental goals, with the aim of maximising all three to achieve a balanced approach to development, which provides environmental, social and economic benefits.