This course is tailored for legal professionals, planners, environmental consultants, and civil servants involved in planning, environmental law, and commercial litigation.

Throughout the day, we delve into recent developments in environmental and planning law, including new legislation and hugely significant court decisions. Participants will explore key topics such as environmental assessment, measures for renewable energy development and climate litigation. We will also examine topics such as development plans, the new planning and Development Act 2024 and other miscellaneous updates. Limited places are available, so book now to secure your spot.

"Very useful, should be mandatory for senior council staff in planning and environmental departments" – Kim O’Meara, Offaly County Council

“Excellent presenter, good pace and very informative” - Paula Kearney, Biodiversity Officer

Course Content‍

Module 1: Overview of the Planning and Development Act 2024

• Overview of structure
• Plan types, plan hierarchy and plan making
• Development Consents
• Alterations and extensions of planning permission
• Reform of An Bord Pleanála
• Judicial Review and costs
• Enforcement mechanisms
• Implementation timelines
• Additional updates

Module 2: Developments in Environmental Assessment

• Screening for AA and Stage II AA
• Mitigation measures – Heather Hill Management Company, Sweetman v An Bord Pleanála & IGP Solar, Highlands Residents, Eco Advocacy
• Project splitting and assessments – Holohan, Mount Juliet
• Derogation licences – Hellfire Massey

Module 3: Strategic Housing and Development Plans

• Interpretation of Development Plan
• Material contravention of zoning
• Large scale residential development updates
• Remittal and intervention by Notice Parties – Ballyboden and Crofton
• National Planning Framework

Module 4: Renewable Energy Updates

• Renewable Energy Directive III
• European Union (Planning and Development) (Renewable Energy) Regulations 2025
• Windfarms and nuisance

Module 5: Developments in Climate Change Law

• Climate change and legislative intervention – climate action and low carbon development (Amendment) Act 2021
• Climate Action Plans
• Climate Cases

Who Should Attend

Public sector, private sector and in-house solicitors working in the areas of conveyancing and planning, commercial litigation, and environmental law. This course is designed for individuals seeking to stay up-to-date with recent legal developments and enhance their understanding of complex legal issues in the context of environmental and planning law.

Certification

On completion of this one-day training course, you will receive your Certificate of Attendance. Please note certificates are issued at the close of the training course to participants on completion of the course.

This course may qualify for CPD points. Please check directly with your association or awarding body to see how many points they will award.

Cost

An ‘Early Bird’ discounted rate of €535 is currently available. This training course normal rate is €635. Places are limited and are allocated on a first come first served basis. PLEASE NOTE THE EARLY BIRD RATE CLOSES 3 WEEKS PRIOR TO COURSE DATE. The course cost includes all course documentation and Certificate of Attendance.