Plans allowing people to build on family land and stay in community welcomed.

NEW planning guidelines relaxing rules around rural one-off housing have been given a broad welcome in West Cork.

A major policy change to allow people to build on their own land had been mooted for some time in the wake of protests from families who were refused planning permission for one-off properties.

Housing Minister James Browne has indicated that the rules governing the construction of one-off rural homes will be changed by the summer.

He said the new guidelines aim to liberalise the current stringent system and will be mandatory for all local authorities.

The proposed changes are expected to make it easier for people to build homes in rural areas, addressing long-standing concerns about restrictive planning rules.

Macra, which has campaigned for reforms to rural housing policy, highlighted the challenges many young people face in building homes and creating lives in the communities where they grew up.

Its national president Josephine O’Neill said the organisation strongly welcomes the government’s commitment to reviewing the current guidelines.

‘Macra has long recognised that young people will play a key role in ensuring rural vibrancy and social sustainability in local communities.

However, many young people experience significant challenges in building their own home under the current guidelines, so we welcome the promise of these guidelines being relaxed,’ she said.

Macra has consistently argued that current planning restrictions can make it extremely difficult for young people, particularly those from farming families or those working in rural areas, to secure planning permission to build a home on family land.

The organisation believes more flexible and consistent national guidelines will help support the sustainability of rural communities, emphasising that young people living and raising families in rural areas is essential for maintaining vibrant communities, supporting local economies and ensuring the long-term future of the agricultural sector.

‘The relaxation of this guideline is a positive step, but we now need the delivery of the Rural Planning Guidelines to ensure there is a clear pathway to planning for young people,’ said Ms O’Neill.

Cork South West Fine Gael Senator Noel O’Donovan also welcomed the proposed changes which he said would provide a ‘long overdue boost’ for West Cork families.

He added: ‘Many people from rural communities have faced unnecessary barriers when trying to build a home on family land. These expected changes represent a practical and balanced approach that recognises the realities of life in rural Ireland.

‘West Cork is built on strong communities and deep family roots. Young people should have the opportunity to remain part of those communities if they wish to do so. Allowing local people with genuine connections to build in their own areas is simply common sense.’