Compulsory Purchase Orders Explained

1. Introduction

This update highlights changes in the procedure for the compulsory acquisition of land as enacted by the Planning and Development Act 2000 (the "Act"). Essentially, the Act transfers the functions of the Minister for the Environment and Local Government (the "Minister") to An Bord Pleanala, the Irish planning board (the "Board"). The procedure by way of public enquiry has been replaced by oral hearing by an inspector appointed by the Board. The transfer of the Minister's functions to the Board involves all necessary powers previously within the Minister's remit, including those concerning rights of access to land, the modification or revocation of planning permissions, and all other powers generally necessary to ensure that the Board can carry out its functions efficiently and effectively.