Inside Ireland’s Planning Reforms: Updates and Outlook for 2026

The Irish planning system is navigating one of its most transformative periods, requiring professionals to rapidly implement complex legislative, policy, and institutional changes while tackling the urgent national housing and infrastructure crises. A managed, plan-led transition is essential to maintain a stable, functioning system as the new Planning and Development Act is rolled out alongside aggressive government housing targets.

This episode delves into the practical realities of implementing the Planning and Development Act 2024, the government's focus on residential zoning and judicial review, the new National Planning Statements for critical infrastructure and housing, and the expanding influence of EU policy as Ireland prepares for its 2026 Presidency.

Joining host Dr. Sean O’Leary is Claragh Mulhern, Principal Planning Advisor in the Planning Division at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. With nearly 20 years of experience in both Irish and UK local government, including 11 years with Westminster City Council, Claragh has a central role in preparing and overseeing national planning policy.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

Claragh's planning journey and influences.

Phased rollout of the Planning Act 2024.

The urgency of residential zoning updates

Planning's role in critical infrastructure delivery.

Balancing public interest with system efficiency.

QUOTES

It's a consistent approach to decision making, not consistent decisions, you know. - Claragh Mulhern

We all, I think, need to acknowledge that everything is changing, and we also need to be willing to change and adapt and look at areas for improvement, innovation in efficiency. - Claragh Mulhern