The key reforms in the latest phase of the Act’s commencement relate for the most part to local authority development plans and local area plans.

Development plans will now have 10-year lifespan instead of six, which the government says will create greater sustainability and consistency, as well as certainty for developers and other stakeholders.

There will be a more efficient process for updating development plans to match new or revised National Planning Statements, for example to allow local authorities to rapidly translate updated national housing targets and population data into local zoning.

The minister will also issue urgent directions requiring changes in certain circumstances.

Local area plans are replaced by three types of area-based plans: urban area plans, for regional growth centres and key towns identified in the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy; priority area plans for parts of towns or cities with potential for major housing or other development; and coordinated area plans jointly prepared by two or more local authorities.

Another reform which has now commenced is the establishment of a new advisory board to oversee and assist the Office of the Planning Regulator.

Housing, local government and heritage James Browne said: “These changes mark another important step on the path towards a more straightforward, robust, and transparent planning process.

“As a government, we are responding to a nationwide housing crisis, and these changes will ensure that this sense of urgency filters down to our regional and local authorities.

“The reforms being commenced in this phase will allow for a more joined up approach to planning and development from the top-down and the bottom-up.

“Development plans at local level will now be able to operate in lockstep with national strategy to ensure a better use of resources and more strategic zoning in response to both local and national requirements.

“This will not only allow us to deliver more homes at the scale and pace that is needed, but also help ensure balanced regional development and sustainable growth in urban areas.

“It will also allow us to preserve the vitality of our rural areas and protect and enhance our environment and heritage, while also incorporating the best possible design standards.”

John Cummins, minister of state with responsibility for local government and planning, added: “I am very pleased to see these much needed reforms coming into effect.

“These changes will allow local authorities to co-ordinate much more efficiently with national policy and help unlock the delivery of housing and infrastructure that is needed to meet the needs of people throughout the Country.

“We know that our planning system has presented challenges in the past, but these reforms will provide the clarity and certainty required to support sustainable growth, attract investment, and deliver better outcomes for communities across Ireland.

“This is a very large piece of legislation that is both broad and ambitious in its scope, but as minister of state for local government and planning, I am eager that we implement the remaining reforms as fast as possible and today marks another milestone on that journey.”