A review of exempted developments is currently being undertaken as part of the implementation plan for the Planning and Development Act 2024.

The review is nearing completion and draft updated regulations will be published for a four-week public consultation over the summer, housing minister James Browne said today.

The minister said: “Housing is a key priority for this Government and we are determined to leave no lever unused.

“The ability to expand and improve existing planning exemptions to allow for the appropriate adaptation of dwellings to changing needs is a key area for consideration.

“Furthermore, if we can have more exemptions, this would take many applications out of the system that really don’t need to be there — freeing up local authority planners’ time and allowing more resources to be focused on larger projects.”

He added: “However, public submissions will be extremely important as we move forward as it is recognised that, especially in urban areas, some exempted developments may have unintended impacts on neighbouring properties.

“Therefore, any proposed exemptions in relation to housing can only be improved by having full public consultation and I would encourage anyone with something to say to engage with the process when it opens up for contributions.”

Under the current review, proposed planning exemptions to allow for the adaptation of dwellings to changing may include:

• Attic conversions (including rooflights);
• Subdivision of existing dwellings;
• Conversions and extensions for the purposes of providing housing options for older people;
• Current design limitations of extensions to existing buildings – pitched rooves etc.;
• Detached modular type buildings which may be used as habitable space within the boundary of a primary dwelling.

John Cummins, minister of state for planning, said: “I have made my views clear on providing planning exemptions for modular-style homes at the rear of a dwelling. I believe it is a common sense and practical measure that will provide housing options for people where appropriate.

“Coupled with this, there are opportunities across many areas to streamline the planning consent process to facilitate reasonable exemptions which in turn will free up planning resources within local authorities.

“I look forward to the consultation process commencing later this month to hear the views of the public on a range of changes which are being proposed following extensive dialogue with other government departments and I value the positive feedback I received so far.”

Kieran O’Donnell, minister of state for older people, added: “I would encourage the public to take part in this public consultation on planning permission exemptions.

“The programme for government commits to bringing forward a range of practical housing options for positive ageing.

“With the right types of planning exemptions, we can simplify and make it easier to convert houses into separate living spaces, allowing older adults to continue living in familiar surroundings while adapting to changing needs.”