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About Us

The planning system exists to regulate the development and the use of land in the public interest. The Department’s functions, in relation to planning, are set out in the Planning (Northern Ireland) Order 1991. The role of the Agency is to administer most of these functions. All planning decisions up until 14 October 2002 were taken under the authority of the Minister for the Department of the Environment. Following the suspension of the Northern Ireland Assembly the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Northern Ireland exercised that authority until the restoration of the Devolved Assembly on 8 May 2007 when Arlene Foster MLA was appointed Minister of the Environment.

Planning Service is responsible for developing, and implementing, Government planning policies and development plans in Northern Ireland. The Agency carries out a range of activities, which promote the Government's key themes of sustainable development and creating a better environment. Our aim is to plan and manage development in ways which will contribute to a quality environment and seek to meet the economic and social aspirations of present and future generations.

The work of Planning Service draws on the professional experience, technical expertise and administrative skills of our staff. This varied mix of skills and experience provides the basis for improving the quality of life of the people of Northern Ireland by planning and managing development in ways which are sustainable and which contribute to creating a better environment. Many of our staff join the service with professional and technical qualifications. Our commitment is to actively encourage and promote the ongoing training and development of all our staff. This has been recognised externally through our accreditation as an Investors in People organisation.