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Northern Ireland Planning Service

Northern Area Plan 2016
Introduction: Policy Context

The Plan has been prepared in the context of the priorities of the Northern Ireland Executive as set out in the Programme for Government, taking into account European, national and regional policies, which have implications for the future development within the four Council areas. A summary of the relevant policy context guidance that has informed the Plan is set out in Appendix 2.

European and UK Context

The European Union and the United Kingdom have embraced the principle of sustainable development based on stewardship of the environment, widening the concept to include economic and social considerations. The objectives of sustainable development are:
  • Social progress that meets the needs of everyone
  • Effective protection of the environment;
  • Prudent use of natural resources; and
  • Maintenance of high and stable levels of economic growth and employment.

Regional Development Strategy (RDS)

The Regional Development Strategy (RDS) for Northern Ireland 2025 ‘Shaping our Future’ was published in September 2001, having been endorsed by the Assembly. This sets out a dynamic strategic spatial planning framework, guiding physical development until 2025, and providing the overarching strategic framework for development plans. The four Council areas are within Rural Northern Ireland in the context of the RDS, with an emphasis on the balanced and integrated development of towns, villages and countryside.

Regional Transportation Strategy (RTS)

The Regional Transportation Strategy is a ‘daughter’ document of the RDS, which expands on the transportation vision of the RDS. The RTS identifies strategic transportation investment priorities and considers potential funding sources over the next decade.

Planning Policy Statements (PPSs)

Planning Policy Statements set out the policies of the Department on particular aspects of land use planning, applying to all of Northern Ireland. Their contents have informed the Northern Area Plan. The Department is working on a programme of new and replacement PPSs. In addition, the Department of Regional Development is preparing a number of PPSs. Subsequent new and revised PPSs will supersede the corresponding policies contained in this Plan

A Planning Strategy for Rural Northern Ireland (The Rural Strategy)

A Planning Strategy for Rural Northern Ireland, (PSRNI) published in September 1993, primarily provides a compendium of planning policies. The Rural Strategy is progressively being replaced by the RDS, up-to-date PPSs and also by current Area Plans. Policies of the Rural Strategy will remain a material consideration in the determination of planning applications until replaced by these documents.

Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG)

The Department has published a range of supplementary planning guidance over the years. These include:
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