Purpose, Vision and Values

Purpose 

As an integral part of the planning system, we will deliver robust, independent, and impartial decisions in a fair, efficient and transparent manner that promotes sustainable development and proper planning.

Vision

To be a trusted, effective and progressive national planning body delivering for the common good. 

Values

We will be guided by these values: 

Efficiency and Effectiveness: We are timely, professional and robust in our decision making and our operations. We understand the impact of our role in the planning process as a decision-making body.

Integririty: We perform our functions with the highest standards of professional behaviour and ethics. We protect the independence and impartiality of our decision making.

Transparency: We are open and accountable in our decisions, systems, and processes. We are clear and honest in our communication and actions. We are proactive in our engagements with stakeholders.

Innovation: We are agile and collaborative. We continually seek to improve our systems, processes and how we work together and with others.

Respect: We recognise the value and dignity in everyone. We are clear on the right of fair, accessible participation for all in the planning system.

Who we are and what we do

An Coimisiún Pleanála is Ireland’s national planning body with responsibility for making independent, timely, quasi-judicial decisions on appeals of planning authority decisions and direct applications for strategic infrastructure projects. We are also responsible for deciding on proposals for compulsory acquisition of land by local authorities amongst a range of other planning-related functions. 

An Coimisiún Pleanála operates under complex national and EU planning legislation. It is not a policy making body, nor is it an enforcement body. Our role is set out in statute. We were established on 18 June 2025 under Part 17 of the Planning and Development Act 2024 and were formerly An Bord Pleanála (established 1977).

An Coimisiún Pleanála’s structure consists of three distinct but interdependent elements, each accountable and responsible for the delivery of our mandate in a fair, equitable and timely manner.

The Governing Board is responsible for the overall governance and sets the strategic direction and performance objectives of An Coimisiún Pleanála. The Governing Board is also responsible for the monitoring and attainment of those objectives. The Governing Board cannot be involved in considering or determining any planning case, as that decision-making function is solely reserved to the Planning Commissioners.

The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for management of the day-to-day administration and business. The CEO is not involved in any case decision-making and so can engage in more external communication to increase transparency, public trust and confidence in the organisation.

Planning Commissioners are responsible for independent decision-making on all appeals and direct application cases and they are overseen by the Chief Planning Commissioner.

Our experienced and professional staff are responsible for supporting and delivering on the organisation’s objectives and functions.