Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 March 2026
1007. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his plans if any, to adapt a one nation national minimum standard approach for all housing types similar to the 2025 design standards for apartment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18522/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Sustainable Residential Development and Compact Settlements Guidelines for Planning Authorities, “the Settlement Guidelines”, were issued as Ministerial Guidelines in January 2024, under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). Under the provisions of Section 28 of Act of 2000 Planning Authorities are required to have regard to Ministerial Guidelines in performing their functions and to apply any Specific Planning Policy Requirements (SPPRs) contained within the Guidelines. Section 5 of the Settlement Guidelines sets out policy and guidance in relation to development standards for housing, including separation distances (SPPR 1), private open space (SPPR 2), public open space, car parking (SPPR 3), bicycle parking (SPPR 4) and daylight.
The Design Manual for Quality Housing, published by my Department in 2022, provides comprehensive guidance for designing high-quality housing. Although the Manual primarily applies to social housing and is not a statutory planning document, its use more broadly is encouraged. The Manual includes a range of standards and design templates relating to the size, layout and internal configuration of houses (and apartments). Critically the Manual facilitates ease of adoption of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) which can speed up delivery and reduce costs.
