Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney has received confirmation that updated rules on one-off rural housing are expected in the second half of the year, after raising the issue through a Parliamentary Question to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
Deputy Cooney sought clarity on the timeline for revised planning regulations governing one-off housing, pointing to ongoing uncertainty for individuals and young couples seeking to build in rural parts of County Clare.
In response, Minister for Housing James Browne confirmed that updated national planning policy for rural housing is expected in the second half of 2026, as part of the Government’s wider planning reform agenda. This will guide how local authorities apply planning criteria for one-off housing in rural areas.
He also indicated that a new National Planning Statement on Rural Housing will follow, setting out more detailed criteria for inclusion in local authority development plans.
The Minister said the approach will build on existing policy, including National Policy Objective 28, which distinguishes between rural areas under urban influence and more remote or structurally weaker rural areas. He said social and economic need will continue to be considered in certain planning decisions.
He added that current Rural Housing Guidelines, last issued in 2005, remain in place alongside more recent policy updates, and will continue to apply until replaced under the Planning and Development Act 2024.
Deputy Cooney said the lack of clarity around one-off housing rules is having a real impact on rural communities in County Clare.
“Too many young people are being effectively prevented from building homes in their own local areas, and that is pushing people away from rural communities rather than supporting them,” he said.
“I also hear time and again from people who want to return home to their communities, to live and raise their families, but are finding it increasingly difficult to secure planning permission. That is not sustainable.”
He said clear, fair and workable planning rules are essential to support rural communities and ensure they remain vibrant into the future.