Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Independent)
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496. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the existing powers in planning legislation that could be used to prevent fast food outlets setting up in close proximity to schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44818/14]

Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)
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Planning authorities may, when adopting the local area plan for their areas, adopt policies to curtail an excessive concentration of fast food outlets in particular areas.

Under planning legislation the change of use of any premises to a takeaway or fast food outlet would require planning permission. In deciding whether or not to grant permission for a development, the relevant planning authority or An Bord Pleanála must consider the proper planning and sustainable development of the area having regard to the provisions of the development plan, any submissions or observations received, and relevant ministerial or Government policies including any guidelines issued by my Department.

The Local Area Plan Guidelines for Planning Authorities (June 2013) recognise the important role of planning in promoting and facilitating active and healthy living patterns for local communities. For example, the Guidelines outline that the local area plan can promote active and healthier lifestyles by ensuring that, inter alia, exposure of children to the promotion of foods that are high in fat, salt or sugar is reduced through careful consideration of the appropriateness or location of fast food outlets in the vicinity of schools and parks.