Steven Matthews (Wicklow, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I will ask the Minister of State for clarification on a matter. To take Deputy Ó Broin's example of a strategic development zone, if an applicant submits something that reasonably complies with the objectives set out in respect of that zone, including the height and densities agreed with the local authority, that applicant will have a reasonably high and proper expectation that he or she will be granted planning permission. However, if the applicant decides to go for something higher or more dense, based on his or her in interpretation of a specific planning policy requirement, SPPR, that is often why we end up in the court situation. Section 23(1)(b) provides not just for national planning statements but also for guidance as to the implementation of policies and measures. I seek clarification on whether that is intended to iron out those previous difficulties, misinterpretations and, maybe, misapplications of SPPRs. Is that section seeking to try to rectify that?