Planning Fees Removed For Non-Profits

Planning fees have been removed for non-profit making organisations applying for planning permission for community facilities such as sports grounds and playing fields.

The changes will take effect from 28 May and include removing the fee for applications by non-profit making organisations for the provision of community facilities, cutting fees to 25% for applications to renew planning permission and keeping the inflationary increase to planning fees at 1.3%.

Environment Minister Mark H Durkan said: "This overhaul of the fee structure will provide practical assistance to individuals, developers and non-profit making organisations. Communities will directly benefit. Removing the fees for non-profit making organisations seeking to build community facilities will make it easier for these organisations to put forward proposals like sports grounds and pitches that can be enjoyed by all."

Colm Bradley, Director, Community Places supported the Minister’s decision. He said: "We welcome the proposal that no fee is applicable for non profit making organisations in making applications for community facilities. Not for profit making organisations often have limited financial resources and planning applications made by these organisations often result in development which has significant community benefits."

(IT)