Large-scale Residential Development

What is Large-scale Residential Development (LRD)?

The Large-scale Residential Development (LRD) process was introduced on 17th December 2021 to replace the Strategic Housing Development (SHD) process. This restores the two-stage planning process, with decision making for LRD applications returning to the local planning authority in the first instance, with the subsequent right of appeal to An Coimisiún Pleanála. An Coimisiún Pleanála considers LRD appeals under section 126. Section 126A and 126B into the principal 2000 Act provides mandatory timeframes for An Coimisiún Pleanála to decide LRD appeals. 

The nature of the LRD developments is similar to that provided for under the SHD system e.g. (100 or more houses, 200 or more bed spaces for student accommodation or 200 or more bed spaces for shared accommodation units).

Making Observations on Large-scale Residential Developments

Members of the public can submit observations online through the specific case page for a current large-scale residential appeal application, from which the uploader can be accessed. To locate the relevant case page, please refer to our case search facility here.

Any person can make an observation if they are not already a participant in the appeal. You can only make an observation if someone has made a valid appeal on a planning authority’s decision on a planning application.

LRD Observation Form and Guide