Mick Clifford: Planning rows show local development plans are at odds with reality 

Turning down planning permissions on the basis of targets that are known to be insufficient is a nonsense, writes Mick Clifford

In at least two proposed developments in the greater Dublin area in recent months, An Bord Pleanála has refused planning permission largely because the system is so slow in catching up with prevailing reality. File picture

The housing crisis is replete with both big problems and silliness. The big problems take a lot of thought, resources, and a little imagination. There is no excuse for the silliness.

Two weeks ago, this newspaper reported on the silliness around disputes between government departments that held up plans since last September to advance social and affordable housing.