To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, further to the recent passage of the Climate Change (No.2) Bill and the publication of the Energy Strategy, whether she plans to review the planning system to streamline applications for renewable energy projects.

I published the first Report on the Review of the Implementation of the Planning Act (NI) 2011 on 27 January 2022. While the scope of the review was not a detailed examination of the operation or performance of the overall new two-tier planning system, it did culminate in 16 recommendations which, will deliver significant, and tangible improvements to the planning system overall. I am committed to developing the policy proposals around these recommendations at the earliest opportunity.

Actions which require amendment to current primary legislation will need to be taken forward through the NI Assembly Bill Process. Other Actions which require secondary / subordinate legislation will also be undertaken in accordance with best practice, and in conjunction with the Committee and Assembly where appropriate. Other actions may be addressed through new or revised guidance.

In addition, I am taking forward a review of strategic planning policy on renewable and low carbon energy, to ensure that policy is up to date, fit for purpose and furthers sustainable development in the long term public interest. My Department has also been working on a number of other fronts to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the planning system, including the establishment of a cross-departmental Planning Forum; a new regional planning IT system that will allow for the more efficient processing of applications; and a Planning Engagement Partnership to improve the planning system and people’s experience of the planning system.

I have no doubt that all of the improvements coming from this work will benefit proposals for renewable energy projects in the future.