Record level of planning appeals causing backlog

The number of planning appeals is running at an all-time high of 13%, according to An Bord Pleanala.

Publishing its latest annual report today, the body said the number of cases being processed within 18 weeks has fallen to 53% this year compared to 78% in 2005.

An Bord Pleanala says the high number of appeals is creating a backlog in the system.

It has also accused some local authorities of being biased against granting planning for apartments, resulting in a situation where a small apartment can be more costly than a house.