Govt to publish law to fast-track infrastructure schemes

The Government is reportedly due to publish planned new legislation today aimed at fast-tracking major infrastructure projects.

Reports this morning said the legislation would allow developers of schemes such as incinerators, roads and airport facilities to bypass the local authority planning process.

Instead, they would have to lodge planning applications with a new division of An Bord Pleanála that would deal exclusively with such developments.

Environment groups and heritage campaigners have already expressed concern about the proposed law, which they believe would be used to force through unsuitable and controversial infrastructure schemes.