To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any plans she has to review planning policy to better facilitate the passage of green energy-generating developments through the planning system.

I am fully committed to improving the planning system for all stakeholders and as a key enabler to support a green recovery following the Covid pandemic. You will be aware that I announced my decision on 21 April 2021 to review strategic planning policy for renewable & low carbon energy, which will ensure that my Department’s regional planning policy for this important subject area continues to be robust and fit for purpose.

You will also be aware that my Department has taken a number of steps to make the system more efficient and effective for all stakeholders in the North, including facilitating the passage of appropriate green energy-generating developments through the planning system. This includes the work of the Planning Forum, the ongoing review of the implementation of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, the Planning Engagement partnership and work to take forward a new regional planning IT system.