Minister gets tough on planning breaches

The Northern Ireland Environment Minister Dermot Nesbitt has said he intends to introduce prison sentences for those who flaunt planning laws.

The Minister highlighted his intent to introduce the tough new legislation today during the first Assembly debate on the Planning (Amendment) Bill 2002.

It is proposed, for the first time, that a person found guilty of an offence involving demolition or alteration of a listed building may be given a term of imprisonment.

The Minister also said he proposes to increase fines from £5,000 to £20,000 for non- compliance with enforcement notices, stop notices, and hazardous substances contravention notices.

Mr Nesbitt said he would also be proposing legislation giving DoE representatives the power to ‘spot list’ sites which are of architectural or environmental importance.

“This power will allow the Department to move quickly in circumstances where buildings are at risk and provide breathing space when it is needed,” he said.

The Department recently came under fire after they were unable to prevent the demolition of poet Seamus Heaney’s former home in south Belfast.

“My position is clear, for those who operate within the law, I wish to see speedy and effective planning decisions. For those who flaunt the law I wish to see equally speedy and effective sanctions applied,” Mr Nesbitt said.

“On devolution, we inherited a planning service that was under-funded, under pressure and under-performing. It was, and still is, the subject of much criticism by the public and elected representatives. It has needed more resources and a complete overhaul of its policies, processes and powers. Since becoming Minister I have viewed this matter as one of utmost importance.

“The provisions in the Bill will significantly improve how the planning system operates. Importantly, the Bill will enhance the Department’s enforcement powers and will enable enforcement action to be taken more quickly and more effectively.”

(AMcE)