Press release

Friends of the Earth's report into the planning system reveals a crisis of confidence

14 December 2011

Queen's University Belfast today (14 December 2011) launched a report on the Northern Irish planning system at Rosemary Street Presbyterian Church, Belfast. The report entitled Public and Stakeholder Opinion on the Northern Ireland Planning System, outlines the results of a survey conducted from 31st May - 31 August 2011.

The report summarises the findings of the first ever survey of public and stakeholder opinion into the planning system and received 544 responses from individuals, developers, politicians and planners.

The report's author, Dr Geraint Ellis of the School of Planning, Architecture and Civil Engineering, stated :

"There is a very strong view that the planning system serves the people of Northern Ireland poorly or very poorly - a view held by 80% of respondents. What is quite remarkable is that these views are broadly held and include the views of the planners themselves."

He added :

"The survey also provided a clear message that a large majority would like to see greater environmental protection and improved enforcement as well a strong perception that we need to take the politics out of planning".

James Orr, Northern Ireland Director for Friends of the Earth, said:

"It is difficult to avoid the conclusion from reading the report that there is a crisis in public confidence in the planning system. If there is a positive note it's the fact that the report reveals a clear set of policies that people want to see addressed as part of a new programme of planning reform."

Read the report. 

Notes

1. Friends of the Earth believes the environment is for everyone. We want a healthy planet and a good quality of life for all those who live on it. We inspire people to act together for a thriving environment. More than 90 per cent of our income comes from individuals so we rely on donations to continue our vital work. For further information visit www.foe.co.uk

2. Reforming the planning system is one of three major campaigns led by Friends of the Earth Northern Ireland. FOE believes the planning system needs to be improved and strengthened to meet the challenges of energy transition, the low carbon economy, working withing environmental limits and social inclusion.

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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust