Controversial SHDs to officially end in February 2022, ABP says

An Bord Pleanala has confirmed that the highly controversial Strategic Housing Development scheme will come to an end in February 2022.

The decision was announced at a Public Accounts Commitee meeting by ABP chairperson David Walsh.

Fianna Fail TD Paul McAulifee said the news is welcome.

“The SHD process has bypassed local authority development plans and has eroded local democracy.

“There has also been a significant increase in legal challenges against SHD decisions by An Bord Pleanála which are often very costly.

“There was a clear government commitment in the Programme for Government that the Strategic Housing Developments will not be extended beyond their legislative expiry in 18 months’ time.

“This will now come to fruition when it expires in February next year”