Storey concerned about time taken over Northern Area Plan

In a reply to a written question Minister Alex Attwood MLA informed Mr Storey that the draft Northern Area Plan 2016 is the subject of an independent examination currently being conducted by the Planning Appeals Commission.

Stage one of the examination addressed strategic policy matters as contained in Volume One of the Draft Plan and was held over the period 19th September 2011 until the 6th October 2011.

Stage two of the examination into site specific matters commenced on 23rd January 2012 and is programmed to close on 22nd March 2012. Following the examination the Planning Appeals Commission will prepare a report recommending how the objections should in their view be addressed.

The Department will take into account this report. Amending the Plan where appropriate before moving to final adoption.

Commenting Mr Storey said: “While I appreciate that this matter is detailed I am still concerned at the amount of time taken in getting to the Planning Appeals Commissions’ final report.”