Inside Ireland’s Planning Reforms: Updates and Outlook for 2026

The Irish planning system is navigating one of its most transformative periods, requiring professionals to rapidly implement complex legislative, policy, and institutional changes while tackling the urgent national housing and infrastructure crises. A managed, plan-led transition is essential to maintain a stable, functioning system as the new Planning and Development Act is rolled out alongside aggressive government housing targets.This episode delves into the practical realities of implementing the Planning and Development Act 2024, the government's focus on residential zoning and judicial review, the new National Planning Statements for critical infrastructure and housing, and the expanding influence of EU policy as Ireland prepares for its 2026 Presidency.Joining host Dr. Sean O’Leary is Claragh Mulhern, Principal Planning Advisor in the Planning Division at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. With nearly 20 years of experience in both Irish and UK local government, including 11 years with Westminster City Council, Claragh has a central role in preparing and overseeing national planning policy.THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTClaragh's planning journey and influences.Phased rollout of the Planning Act 2024.The urgency of residential zoning updatesPlanning's role in critical infrastructure delivery.Balancing public interest with system efficiency.QUOTESIt's a consistent approach to decision making, not consistent decisions, you know. - Claragh Mulhern We all, I think, need to acknowledge that everything is changing, and we also need to be willing to change and adapt and look at areas for improvement, innovation in efficiency. - Claragh Mulhern And it's really, I suppose, that the importance of bringing all of the stakeholders together in a very coordinated approach that looks at prioritising, you know, what is the scale of ambition in these locations and what's required in order to deliver it? - Claragh Mulhern GUEST DETAILSClaragh Mulhern is the Principal Adviser in the Planning Division at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, having worked there since 2019. Previously, she worked in the local government sector in the U.K. for 15 years, including 11 years at Westminster City Council in Central London. Claragh has extensive experience in the preparation of national planning policy, including the National Planning Framework, and advising on Government policy in relation to housing and renewable energy development. She is a Registered Member of the Irish Planning Institute.Connect with the Irish Planning Institute:Website: ipi.iePodfollow: podfollow.com/ipiSearch podcast player: "IPI Planners Podcast"PODCAST HOST DETAILSDr. Sean O'Leary MIPI is a highly respected Senior Planner at the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) and a key voice in the field of Irish planning. With extensive experience and a deep understanding of planning policy and practice, Dr. O'Leary brings a wealth of knowledge to "The Planners' Podcast." Professionals and enthusiasts alike seek to navigate the complexities of urban and rural development in Ireland.As a member of the Irish Planning Institute (MIPI), Dr. O'Leary demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of the planning profession. Find out more: https://ipi.ie/ABOUT THE IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTEThe Irish Planning Institute (IPI) is the all-island professional body for planners in Ireland, dedicated to advancing the field of physical, spatial, and environmental planning for the common good. Established in 1975, the IPI plays a vital role in shaping sustainable development across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Through its diverse membership, which includes professionals from public, private, and academic sectors, the IPI offers a unified voice on critical planning issues.The Planners Podcast is produced for IPI by dustpod.ioKEYWORDS#PlanningAct2024 #IrishPlanning #HousingSupply #CriticalInfrastructure #EUPresidency