COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

MOTION NO. 1

MOTION: Councillor E. Higgins

"That this Committee writes to the relevant Minister explaining that the filing system of legacy planning files means that protected structures are not being protected by planning legislation." 

REPORT:

It is understood that the Motion relates to a requirement for Planning Authorities to keep all planning application files in perpetuity.  This presents an enormous challenge in respect of storage and retrieval which the Planning Section does it's utmost to meet.  The Council has availed of all available storage in addition to microfilming and digitising these records.

Planning files can go back to 1964 and it is inevitable that over this time period that some files may go missing.  In very rare circumstances a microfilm or digitised record is not accepted in lieu of a missing file and this position is beyond the control of the Planning Authority.  This rare circumstance can only be overcome if a missing file comes to light or the acceptability of microfilmed, digitised record or other alternatives is clarified.  This would be outside the control of the Planning Authority.

If the motion is approved, a letter will be issued to the Minister,  and when a reply is received, the Committee will be notified accordingly.