National Planning Statement to make building homes in Donegal ‘easier and fairer’
“These updated guidelines are a pragmatic step ensuring locals can remain anchored in their own native areas” - McConalogue
Donegal Minister of State Charlie McConalogue says the new Draft National Planning Statement on Rural and Gaeltacht Housing will make building homes in Donegal easier and fairer.
Commenting on the draft National Planning Statement agreed by the government, the Minister of State for Sport and Postal Policy said the new approach to rural and Gaeltacht housing aims to provide clearer, fairer, and more consistent planning rules.
“People with genuine local social or economic ties will continue to be supported to build homes in rural communities across Donegal. Crucially, rural workers in sectors such as farming, forestry, equine, and other essential local services will be formally recognised in the planning process.”
“A more flexible approach will apply in many rural areas, while stronger protections will remain in areas under urban pressure and in scenic or sensitive locations. The framework also introduces greater support for appropriate infill and backland development, with less reliance on rigid rules such as minimum road frontage or limits on the number of houses in a row,” Minister of State McConalogue added.
To combat urban sprawl, there will be dedicated measures to support the regeneration of rural towns and villages and enable more housing choice in smaller settlements. Additional provisions are also being implemented to strengthen the vitality of Gaeltacht communities.
Noting the government’s commitment to sustaining local populations in Donegal, he said: “Fianna Fáil is determined to prioritise vibrant rural communities by delivering a balanced approach that supports local families to live in rural Ireland.”
Minister McConalogue says the draft National Planning Statement introduces a clearer national approach to rural housing, with more consistent planning rules, reduced unnecessary local restrictions, and updated guidance on local housing need.
It also supports the renewal of rural towns and villages by encouraging the reuse of vacant and derelict homes alongside appropriate new housing.
The Draft Statement will now undergo environmental assessment before returning to government for final approval. Once adopted, it will replace the Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines that have been in place since 2005.
“These updated guidelines are a pragmatic step, ensuring locals can remain anchored in their own native areas, and I am glad to see them published. The next step is to complete the process and bring the new framework into effect,” the Donegal Minister of State added.