INDUSTRY

The Department is committed to the encouragement of economic development in a manner which is compatible with sound environmental objectives. There is always the necessity to weigh carefully the importance of job creation with that of maintaining and improving the quality of the environment. While job creation is not a function of the planning system, planning can have a role to play in creating conditions which are conducive to economic development - for example, the supply of adequate land in accessible locations. In addition the Department is keen to ensure that there are no unnecessary obstacles of a land use nature which would hinder the maintenance or creation of employment.

Development plans will provide the land use framework for both public
and private sector investment. Particular importance is attached to the creation and development of small businesses. Their development may lead to significant employment creation in the future. Small businesses will generally be encouraged except in certain locations or where they are likely to generate specific environmental or amenity problems.