Planning committee resumes

The committee will meet, remotely, on June 2 with video conferencing technology in place to allow applicants and objectors the opportunity to address the meeting.

The committee normally meets monthly but has not met since lockdown measures were introduced more than eight weeks ago.

Despite the committee not meeting, Council has received over 133 planning applications in that timeframe, the majority of which relate to housing with the remainder focused on shops, industrial premises, tourism and recreation schemes, agricultural buildings, waste facilities a quarry and other minor developments.

During the same period, a further 110 applications were progressed to decision under delegated authority. At present there are are currently 831 planning applications under consideration.

Speaking as the decision to hold the meeting was announced, Chair of Mid Ulster District Council’s planning committee, Councillor Cathal Mallaghan said he is keen for meetings to resume.

“It is now more important than ever that we do all we can to help protect and safeguard our economy.,” said Councillor Mallaghan.

“In Mid Ulster, the manufacturing and construction sector accounts for almost 30 per cent of all jobs in the district. It is therefore vital that the planning service continues to operate and provide the necessary decisions so that the economy can be supported.

“I must commend the planning staff who have worked tirelessly, even in these difficult circumstances, to continue to provide this important service for the public.

“The monthly meetings commencing again in June is a welcome development which will see further positive outcomes for the district, our residents and our economy.”

The agenda for the meeting will be available on the Council’s website from May 26 for anyone who wishes to check if their application is listed. For this, and other planning information, visit www.midulstercouncil.org/planning.

Adam Morton , Local Democracy Reporting Service