Roche draws up new fast-track planning proposals

20/05/2005 - 07:39:09
Environment Minister Dick Roche has reportedly drawn up proposals that would see major infrastructure projects like roads and incinerators fast-tracked through the planning process.

Reports this morning said the measures were included in a new Infrastructure Bill that Mr Roche is due to present to the Cabinet next Tuesday.

A previous Infrastructure Bill was also brought before the Cabinet last year, but opposition to fast-track planning proposals led to it being withdrawn.

This morning's reports said that Mr Roche was proposing a separate division of An Bord Pleanala to deal with infrastructure projects in place of the previous proposal for the establishment of a new planning authority to oversee such schemes.