Laois Fine Gael TD and Leas Cathaoirleach of the Committee on Agriculture, Willie Aird, has welcomed the introduction of new planning exemption regulations, which come into effect last week.
These measures will allow farmers to increase slurry storage capacity and construct additional housing for cattle without the need to seek planning permission.
Deputy Aird said: “I very much welcome that the Minister of State for Planning and Local Government, John Cummins, has signed new regulations that will reduce red tape, lower costs, and enable farmers to invest quickly in meeting environmental standards.
“These particular agricultural exemptions are a significant step forward.
“Updating the Exempted Developments — which have not been revised in almost 25 years — is a practical and timely move that will support farmers in modernising their facilities while protecting our environment.”
Outline of the changes are below:
- To increase the size of animal housing under Class 6 of Part 3 of Schedule 2 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, as amended by 50%. 200 sqm to 300sqm for a structure to house animals.
- To increase the aggregated total from 300 sqm to 450 sqm for animal housing per farm holding.
- To allow for a stand-alone slurry storage tank of up to 1000 cubic metres, subject to a total farm storage of 1500 cubic metres.
Deputy Aird said: “Adequate slurry storage is critical for protecting water quality and improving nutrient management.
“Likewise, modern and well-designed animal housing supports higher standards of animal welfare.
“I must stress that these changes do not remove oversight or responsibility. All developments will still be required.”
Continuing his remarks, Deputy William Aird said: “In addition, there will be a planning exemption for stand-alone slurry storage and an increased threshold for animal housing of 50%.
“This will support farmers investing in their enterprises to improve water quality and animal welfare while reducing administrative burden.”
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