Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I propose to withdraw amendment No. 24. Amendment No. 28 involves a longer conversation but a question does arise. These are big-ticket items, of 500, 800 or 1,000 units. They can change an entire town or area, often very much for the better, but it is a matter of having the arrangement I describe. It is a little different when talking about very large moving pieces or an LRD, potentially with attached developments that make up 30% of the overall project, because such developments can absolutely change the tenor of an area. The local area development plan is one part of the process but, instead of being afraid of the public, as we sometimes are, we need more proactive and positive engagement. It is good if people engage with the planning process. It is good to have checking in and consultation, including on what is meant for local schooling, for example. While planners in the council may have some insight, there are times when it is appropriate to have the consultation I advocate.