Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 December 2025
276. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the planning exemption for change of use from commercial to residential will be extended beyond 31 December 2025; when it will be extended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73465/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra309. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he plans to further extend the Article 10(6)(a) exemptions under the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), which are due to end on 31 December 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73121/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 276 and 309 together.
Planning and Development Act (Exempted Development) Regulations 2022, provides an exemption from the requirement for planning permission for the conversion of certain types of vacant commercial property into residential use, such as ‘living over the shop’ accommodation and conversion of vacant pubs, up to a maximum of 9 residential units. Article 10(6) of the 2001 Regulation sets out the provisions exempting change of use from vacant commercial units to residential units.
Regulations providing for an extension until 31 December 2028, of the exemption for conversion to residential use set out under S.I. No. 75 of 2022, were before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Housing on 09 December 2025. Following the anticipated receipt of positive resolutions of both Houses of the Oireachtas, as required under section 262(4) of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, I, as the Minister of State with responsibility for Planning, will sign the regulations into law at the earliest opportunity once finalised.
