Opportunity to Contribute to Ireland's First National Planning Excellence Framework
Researchers are being invited to contribute to the development of Ireland's first National Planning Excellence Framework (NPEF), a new initiative designed to promote excellence, consistency, and quality across the Irish planning system. The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has published a Discussion Paper below as part of the framework's development and is seeking feedback on the proposed attributes that will underpin the NPEF.
The framework represents a significant milestone for Ireland's planning system, establishing for the first time a shared vision of what planning excellence should look like across planning authorities nationwide. The initiative also aligns with the phased implementation of the Planning and Development Act 2024.
The Department is seeking perspectives from a broad range of stakeholders on six key attributes outlined in the Discussion Paper. Feedback is welcomed on what excellence means in practice, the challenges facing the planning system, how performance can be measured effectively, and how continuous improvement can be supported across the sector.
This consultation provides an important opportunity for the research and innovation community to contribute evidence-based insights that can help shape future planning policy and practice. Expertise in areas such as governance, performance measurement, sustainability, community engagement, data and digital innovation, and public policy can provide valuable perspectives on the development of the framework.
Following a review of submissions received, the Department will prepare a draft National Planning Excellence Framework for full public consultation.
Organisations wishing to contribute should submit a single consolidated response. Feedback may be provided using the Department's Stakeholder Feedback Form below or in an alternative format.
The deadline for submissions is 3rd of July 2026.
For further information, or to submit feedback, contact the Strategic Performance and Innovation Unit at planningexcellence@housing.gov.ie.
Discussion Paper - National Planning Excellence Framework.pdf
Stakeholder Feedback Form - National Planning Excellence Framework Discussion Paper.pdf