The Northern Ireland Executive has accepted there is no need to introduce guidance requiring full account be taken of the economic implications of planning decisions - because that is something that already happens.
In January the Executive published Draft Planning Policy Statement 24 which proposed introducing the requirement.
But environment minister Alex Attwood now says he accepts full account of such implications is already included in planning applications, something he was persuaded of by responses to the consultation.
"I am determined that planning applications of all sizes with economic benefit, and crucially major benefit, are given every opportunity and a fair wind," he says. "Good planning, quick decisions, balanced by a favourable planning environment are key to economic growth and new jobs. I am determined that DoE planning will work better to achieve this. I will roll out a series of interventions in the coming period to help achieve this goal."
Out of 133 respondents, 103 opposed the move.
"Others who responded to the consultation feared that implementation of Draft PPS24 could compromise sustainable development or conservation objectives, undermine existing planning policies, or prioritise short term financial gain over longer term sustainable growth," said Mr Atwood.
"Some people who supported the policy questioned the need for it."
He said no weight had ever been given to the policy, so no consents need reconsideration.
"But as I have made clear, I aim to create a planning environment which is positive to business and reform planning to make it more fit for business," he said.
