Latest news with #SHD
Extra.ie
11-05-2025
- Business
- Extra.ie
Over 12k proposed homes stuck in planning system for years will not be built
An Bord Pleanála has rejected plans for almost 7,000 new homes stuck in the planning system for years, has learned. Applications for a further 5,500-plus new units in developments initially earmarked to be fast-tracked under the Strategic Housing Development (SHD) scheme have also been controversially 'withdrawn'. And the national planning authority has yet to decide on a further 19 developments with a combined 6,600-plus new homes, despite the fact that they have been clogging the planning system for several years. James Browne. Pic: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos The huge number of rejections and delays sparked a political backlash last night as the Government is under mounting pressure to reverse a significant decline in new builds driven by infrastructure problems. It also comes amid deepening tensions between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael over the botched appointment of Minister James Browne's top candidate for housing 'tsar'. Latest figures show An Bord Pleanála (ABP) has 'refused' permission for 23 developments with a combined 6,885 units from the SHD planning list. These include a development of 881 apartments in Dundrum, south Dublin. Some 1,018 of these rejections were made in the first four months of this year. The planning authority confirmed it has 'withdrawn' a further nine applications with a total of 5,518 new homes, including a proposal for a 2,567-home development in Belcamp, Dublin. ABP confirmed that as of the end of last month, the fate of a further 19 SHD applications with 6,658 units is still 'not decided'. Dublin (3,059) accounts for the largest amount of SHD schemes that remain lingering in the system, followed by Cork (1,579); Bray, Co. Wicklow (694); Kildare (744); Offaly (349); and Wexford (233). Over the past year, just eight SHD developments with 2,399 homes have been given the green light. The majority (1,050) are in Dublin, with the rest in Cork (563) and Bray, Co. Wicklow (586). An Bord Pleanála has rejected plans for almost 7,000 new homes stuck in the planning system for years, has learned. Pic: Shutterstock The planning applications for more than 20,000 new homes were in stalled developments earmarked to be fast-tracked under the SHD. Under the scheme, introduced in 2017, decisions on large-scale developments would be made within 16 weeks by ABP and bypass local authorities. It prioritised those with 100 or more houses and student accommodation units. In 2021, applications made under the scheme ceased after the Government terminated the SHD planning arrangements and replaced them with different arrangements. In October that year, ABP secured 117 new staff to help it implement reforms and clear the backlog. Since then, the agency has been slowly working through the planning applications submitted to the SHD. The updated figures were published on April 17 after the list detailing the scale of rejections and delays mysteriously disappeared from the ABP website for almost a month without notification or explanation. On April 2, Independent Senator Victor Boyhan wrote to the planning authority requesting they 'please forward me the current SHD list', adding: 'I always downloaded the same on the ABP website, but understand it's been removed.' Catherine Connolly. Pic: Arthur Carron/Collins Photos Six days later, in a Dáil question to Minister James Browne, Independent TD Catherine Connolly requested the number of properties on 'the current outstanding SHD planning application list'. In his response, Mr Browne simply stated, 'my Department does not hold the information requested' and referred her to an ABP email address for further information. On April 22, Senator Boyhan received an ABP response informing him: 'The SHD list, which had been on the Board's website, was removed at the end of March 2025 following queries which brought to the attention of the Board that the list had not been updated. 'A newly revised list will be on the Board's website by the end of this week. In the meantime, please see the updated list (as of the 17th of April) attached.' Senator Boyhan told the figures – and ABP's responses to his queries – are 'a prime example of the urgency for the Minister to get on with An Bord Pleanála reform'. He added: 'The Minister will have to explain why all the SHD plans for housing units are not being built out and why the Board appears to be so slow, in an emergency, in passing plans. The Minister must now move swiftly to making real changes in devolving powers to councillors and give councils the money to build houses.' Rory Hearne. Pic: Colin Keegan/Collins Dublin Social Democrats' housing spokesman Rory Hearne called the planning figures a 'mess' and pointed the finger of blame at the Coalition parties. He told the MoS: 'They haven't resourced local authorities with sufficient planners. This Government is continuously acting like it hasn't been in Government for years. This is typified by Fianna Fáil who, after holding the housing ministry for five years, have suddenly discovered 'bottlenecks'… despite claiming misleadingly in the election they had turned the corner on housing.' Sinn Féin housing spokesman Eoin ? Broin said a lack of staff at the planning authority is to blame for the backlog in applications. 'The Board has received sanction for extra staffing, but these positions have still not all been filled,' he added.'They need another 50 staff to clear the backlog, and this must be done swiftly.' In response to queries, An Bord Pleanála said a key factor in the delays occurred in 2022 when, 'a number of SHD applications were lodged, where subsequently, a new City or County Development Plan came into force. 'The Board has been making significant progress in addressing a backlog of cases that arose over 2022 and 2023, which included a number of SHD applications. 'It is not possible at this juncture to provide a specific timeframe for each outstanding case.' Mr Browne – facing criticism from the Opposition and within the Coalition amid a significant drop in building commencements this year – will likely not be happy with the number of developments progressed from the SHD list. Speaking at the release of the Revised National Planning Framework (NPF) this week, he said, 'Ireland needs a step change in the delivery of housing' adding: 'I am ensuring that the vital conditions for the accelerated delivery of new homes are put in place.' But one Coalition source noted: 'When it comes to that [SHD] list, more house permissions are being disappeared than passed.'
Irish Times
06-05-2025
- Business
- Irish Times
An Bord Pleanála failure to decide on applications delays up to 6,000 apartments
Planning for some 6,000 'fast-track' apartments has stalled for more than three years, delaying construction after An Bord Pleanála failed to decide on 18 applications from 2021 and 2022. New figures show the planning body has still not overcome the legacy of the 2022 governance scandal that halted decision making on key files. These included strategic housing development (SHD) plans, a 2017 process that was supposed to accelerate apartment building. Applications went directly to An Bord Pleanála, bypassing local councils in contentious measures that later led to dozens of High Court cases. The planning board paid out €1.43 million in fines for not processing 143 SHD applications on time. But it has since made 'significant progress' clearing a large backlog of SHD and other planning files that accumulate in 2022 and 2023. READ MORE But records show 18 SHD schemes in Dublin, Cork, Kildare, Wicklow and Wexford are 'not decided', years after the window for applications closed in early 2022. One further Co Offaly case 'cannot be decided' as it is subject to a legal order. Independent Senator Victor Boyhan , who pressed An Bord Pleanála to publish the data, said developers made big gains from flaws in the SHD regime. 'The SHD process, hailed as an opportunity by the Government, failed to deliver housing units at scale. In fact, the majority of permissions granted were not built out. The developers gained in terms of site value as a result of An Bord Pleanála approval,' said Mr Boyhan. 'I am in favour of a use-it-or-lose-it [rule in] these so-called fast track SHD permissions, after a period of three years. Priority was given by the Government through the SHD to deliver new homes. It was never intended to aid and enhance site values, which is what has happened.' Asked about SHD delays, An Bord Pleanála replied: 'Legal complications arose in 2022 due to the fact that a number of SHD applications were lodged where subsequently a new city or county development plan came into force.' A 2024 Supreme Court ruling 'provided some clarity on this matter', prompting the planning board to establish a special team of inspectors to deal with outstanding SHD files. 'Since January 2024, the board have disposed of 36 cases and there are a further four cases at board level, due to be decided shortly. It is not possible at this juncture to provide a specific time frame for each outstanding case. 'However, there are a further 15 cases currently on hand and it is envisaged that these will be decided by the end of the [second quarter of the year],' it said. Another 16 SHD cases have been sent back to the board after litigation. 'These cases will require further consideration by the board and new inspectors' reports will need to be prepared to take account of the significant changes in planning and development law, county and city plans and ministerial guidelines that have occurred in the intervening time.' Citing the need to balance priorities, the agency said it expects to dispose of those cases by the end of 2025. An Bord Pleanála was rocked by turmoil in 2022 when then deputy chairman Paul Hyde resigned after questions were raised about his work. He received a suspended prison sentence in 2023 for failing to declare certain personal interests. The disruption prompted a breakdown in board decision-making on big housing and infrastructure files. New laws followed to overhaul An Bord Pleanála and planning. The restructured institution will work under a new name, An Coimisiún Pleanála.
Gulf Today
28-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Sharjah Heritage Days to take place from Feb.12-23
Gulf Today, Staff Reporter The Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIH) hosted a press conference at the Arab Heritage Centre to unveil the details of the 22nd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days (SHD), set to take place from Feb.12 to 23, 2025. This year's edition promises an exceptional experience under the theme 'Roots,' highlighting the authenticity of Emirati heritage and showcasing the deep cultural and historical connections that bridge the past and present. Through a diverse array of activities and events, the festival will celebrate traditions, customs, and cultural heritage, reinforcing national identity and fostering intergenerational dialogue. The festivities will extend across seven cities in the emirate of Sharjah, starting in Sharjah City from Feb.12 to 23, before moving to Khorfakkan, Mleiha, Hamriyah, Al Dhaid, Kalba, and Dibba Al Hisn. This expansion offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage in diverse environments across the emirate. Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, emphasised that Sharjah Heritage Days reflects the vision of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, in preserving heritage and strengthening cultural identity for future generations. He highlighted how the event has grown beyond a traditional celebration of Emirati heritage to become an international platform for cultural dialogue and the preservation of global heritage. Al Musallam explained that this edition aims to offer a more immersive and interactive experience for visitors by introducing new event spaces, launching unique cultural projects such as the 'Book Market' and the 'Library Centennial Celebration,' and expanding participation from folk groups, artisans, and artists. He further noted that the increasing international presence at the festival reflects Sharjah's role as a cultural hub and a leader in heritage preservation on a global scale. Abu Bakr Al Kindi, General Coordinator of Sharjah Heritage Days, emphasised that SHD continues to evolve into a knowledge platform that honours the past, engages the present, and embraces the future. He invited the public to participate in this vibrant and enriching celebration, which seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, reinforcing Sharjah's status as a cultural capital that values its heritage while shaping the future. This year's edition will feature participation from over 26 countries, including GCC nations, as well as Morocco, Palestine, Iraq, Egypt, Syria, China, Russia, Germany, France, Georgia, and the Netherlands. This broad international engagement reinforces Sharjah's commitment to cultural exchange and collaboration, further solidifying its reputation as a global capital for culture and heritage. More than 30 governmental, academic, and cultural institutions will be involved, including ministries, heritage organisations, and international entities such as UNESCO, ICCROM-Sharjah, the International Organisation of Folk Art (IOV), and the International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals (CIOFF). This institutional backing highlights the festival's growing prestige, attracting global experts and scholars in the field of heritage preservation. One of the major highlights of this edition is the inauguration of 'Al Soor Square,' a newly dedicated venue for cultural activities, alongside the centennial celebration of Sharjah's first library, established in 1925. Additionally, the event will feature the launch of the 'Book Market,' bringing together over 12 libraries and six publishing houses, offering a platform to celebrate literary heritage. The festival will also showcase live demonstrations by 150 artisans from around the world, along with the largest Al Ayyala folk performance, featuring 300 folk artists. The artistic programme includes the 'Palm Symphony' operetta, the play 'Mawa'id Arqoub,' and the children's theater production 'Island of Wishes.' The 8th GCC Dama Championship, a traditional strategy board game competition, will be hosted during the event. Additionally, three major exhibitions will take place, including the 'Roots' Exhibition, which explores Sharjah's historical milestones in education, traditional markets, and medical practices. The 'Scents Through the Ages' Exhibition will document the evolution of perfumery across civilisations, while the 'A Century of Libraries' Exhibition will highlight Sharjah's literary and archival heritage dating back to 1925.
Sharjah 24
27-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
SIH unveils 22nd Sharjah Heritage Days with global participation
This year's edition of the Days promises an exceptional experience under the theme "Roots", highlighting the authenticity of Emirati heritage and showcasing the deep cultural and historical connections that bridge the past and present. Through a diverse array of activities and events, the festival will celebrate traditions, customs, and cultural heritage, reinforcing national identity and fostering intergenerational dialogue. The festivities will extend across seven cities in the Emirate of Sharjah, starting in Sharjah City from February 12 to 23, before moving to Khorfakkan, Mleiha, Hamriyah, Al Dhaid, Kalba, and Dibba Al-Hisn. This expansion offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage in diverse environments across the emirate. Introducing new event spaces, launching unique cultural projects His Excellency Dr. Abdul Aziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage , emphasised that Sharjah Heritage Days reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, in preserving heritage and strengthening cultural identity for future generations. He highlighted how the event has grown beyond a traditional celebration of Emirati heritage to become an international platform for cultural dialogue and the preservation of global heritage. Dr. Al Musallam explained that this edition aims to offer a more immersive and interactive experience for visitors by introducing new event spaces, launching unique cultural projects such as the 'Book Market' and the 'Library Centennial Celebration,' and expanding participation from folk groups, artisans, and artists. He further noted that the increasing international presence at the festival reflects Sharjah's role as a cultural hub and a leader in heritage preservation on a global scale. Evolve into a knowledge platform that honors the past, engages the present, and embraces the future Abu Bakr Al Kindi, General Coordinator of Sharjah Heritage Days, emphasised that SHD continues to evolve into a knowledge platform that honors the past, engages the present, and embraces the future. He invited the public to participate in this vibrant and enriching celebration, which seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, reinforcing Sharjah's status as a cultural capital that values its heritage while shaping the future. Participation from over 26 countries This year's edition will feature participation from over 26 countries, including GCC nations, as well as Morocco, Palestine, Iraq, Egypt, Syria, China, Russia, Germany, France, Georgia, and the Netherlands. This broad international engagement reinforces Sharjah's commitment to cultural exchange and collaboration, further solidifying its reputation as a global capital for culture and heritage. More than 30 governmental, academic, and cultural institutions More than 30 governmental, academic, and cultural institutions will be involved, including ministries, heritage organisations, and international entities such as UNESCO, ICCROM-Sharjah, the International Organisation of Folk Art (IOV), and the International Council of Organisations of Folklore Festivals (CIOFF). This institutional backing highlights the festival's growing prestige, attracting global experts and scholars in the field of heritage preservation. Centennial celebration of Sharjah's first library One of the major highlights of this edition is the inauguration of "Al Soor Square," a newly dedicated venue for cultural activities, alongside the centennial celebration of Sharjah's first library, established in 1925. Additionally, the event will feature the launch of the "Book Market," bringing together over 12 libraries and six publishing houses, offering a platform to celebrate literary heritage. The festival will also showcase live demonstrations by 150 artisans from around the world, along with the largest Al-Ayyala folk performance, featuring 300 folk artists. The artistic program includes the "Palm Symphony" operetta, the play "Mawa'id Arqoub," and the children's theater production "Island of Wishes." 8th GCC Dama Championship The 8th GCC Dama Championship, a traditional strategy board game competition, will be hosted during the event. Additionally, three major exhibitions will take place, including the "Roots" Exhibition, which explores Sharjah's historical milestones in education, traditional markets, and medical practices. The "Scents Through the Ages" Exhibition will document the evolution of perfumery across civilizations, while the "A Century of Libraries" Exhibition will highlight Sharjah's literary and archival heritage dating back to 1925. 27 folk groups The festival will bring together 27 folk groups, including seven Arab groups, 15 Emirati groups, and five international groups from India, Russia, Georgia, Macedonia, and Montenegro, representing the diverse range of folklore traditions worldwide. Rich intellectual and cultural programme A rich intellectual and cultural program will accompany the festival, featuring 14 academic lectures and 15 book launches, alongside cultural café discussions and the International School of Storytelling, providing scholars and researchers with an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions on heritage and contemporary cultural issues. To ensure a seamless visitor experience, 500 additional parking spaces have been added, along with a dedicated Heritage Days Train to transport guests across the venue. A comprehensive logistical support system, including security, medical assistance, and emergency response teams, has been put in place to accommodate the high number of attendees. The 22nd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days promises to be a unique celebration of tradition and innovation, offering visitors a deeply immersive experience in heritage, culture, and artistic expression. Through its diverse and dynamic programming, the festival continues to position Sharjah as a global leader in heritage preservation, fostering dialogue and understanding between cultures, and celebrating the richness of human history in a contemporary setting.
Khaleej Times
27-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
UAE's oldest heritage festival returns with 400-year-old perfumery, train, book market
Residents in the UAE will be able to explore a 400-year-old perfumery, a book market and enjoy a ride in the heritage train during the Sharjah Heritage Days exhibition (SHD) next month. The 22nd edition of the UAE's oldest heritage festival – from February 12 to 23, 2025 – will showcase true Emirati heritage. Three major exhibitions will take place, including the 'Roots' exhibition, which explores Sharjah's historical milestones in education, traditional markets, and medical practices. The 'Scents through the ages' exhibition will document the evolution of perfumery across civilisations, while the 'A century of libraries' exhibition will highlight the emirate's literary and archival heritage dating back to 1925. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Another major highlight of this edition is 'Al Soor Square', a new venue for cultural activities, alongside the centennial celebration of Sharjah's first library, established in 1925. Additionally, the event will feature the launch of the 'book market', bringing together over 12 libraries and six publishing houses, offering a platform to celebrate literary heritage. A dedicated 'heritage days train' will transport guests across the venue. The entry is free to make it a more family-oriented exhibition. 'Sharjah Heritage Days is the oldest heritage festival in the UAE. This year our slogan is 'Roots' because we want to focus on Emirati and GCC countries' heritage. We added more space to the festival area as we have a new square – Sharjah Old Wall Square. One of the most important aspects is the French perfumes exhibition where people will see the first production of perfumes dating back to 400 years. People will also get to see old bottles of perfumes,' said Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage. 'People will enjoy all five senses – smell, taste, sight, touch and hear at the exhibition. Everything will be traditional and old-style. We are also using new technologies – like Metaverse – to attract the new generation.' 'We all need to go back to our roots. We are trying to showcase our real roots of heritage to attract youth in the UAE. In addition to GCC countries, we have 124 countries participating through their folk music. Expats in the UAE have their folk music groups who will be taking part in the exhibition,' Dr Al Musallam told Khaleej Times in an interview on Monday. The festival will feature 14 academic lectures and 15 book launches, alongside cultural café discussions and the International School of Storytelling. The exhibition will run in seven cities, starting in Sharjah City from February 12 to 23, before moving to Khorfakkan, Mleiha, Hamriyah, Al Dhaid, Kalba, and Dibba Al-Hisn.
