The latest commencements on Thursday provide the statutory basis for both the National Planning Framework (NPF) and Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies (RSESs) under the new Act, and the replacement of section 28 ministerial guidelines with national planning statements.

Regional assemblies are now required to commence the review of their Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies (RSESs) to reflect the revised National Planning Framework (NPF).

This will strengthen planning alignment with national objectives, relating to priority areas such as housing, infrastructure and renewable energy, the government says.

National planning statements, to be approved by government, will provide clear, consistent national planning policies that all regional and local authorities must follow.

This is intended to ensure better alignment with government priorities and more effective delivery of housing and infrastructure nationwide.

A review of existing ministerial guidelines is now underway, with plans to replace them with national planning statements.

The government says the commencements will drive a more coordinated approach between regional assemblies and local authorities, to accelerate housing delivery, optimise the use of zoned land, and strongly align infrastructure investment with housing needs.

Housing, local government and heritage minister James Browne said: “Planning reform is essential for us to move the dial on the delivery of much-needed homes.

“We know there are challenges in this space, and I have been driving the reform agenda forward since I began as minister early this year. This is another key measure as part of my work.

“I’m interested in a robust, transparent process here that leads to quality homes being built. This action will align our government priorities and what is planned for, on the ground, across each local authority from Dublin to Wexford to Clare.

“As a government, we are responding to a nationwide housing crisis, and that is the same priority I expect from our regional and local authorities.”

He added: “As minister, national planning statements can and will now be issued so that there is far greater certainty, coordination, and therefore delivery of homes. I want all levels to act in step with this urgent need.

“I want joined up approaches, with better use of the land we have already zoned and the land we are about to zone, so that homes are delivered at pace and at the scale urgently needed.

“Infrastructure is at the heart of housing delivery, so it must be linked locally, regionally and nationally.”

John Cummins, minister of state with responsibility for local government and planning, said: “These reforms are a significant step forward, enabling regional assemblies to update their strategies and giving government the means to provide further clarity and direction on key sectors like housing and renewable energy.

“This will unlock delivery and support infrastructure coordination.

“These reforms provide the clarity and certainty needed to support sustainable growth, attract investment, and deliver better outcomes for communities across Ireland.

“As minister of state for local government and planning, I am keen that we implement the remaining parts of this important new legislation as fast as possible and today marks another milestone towards that objective.”