Status and Relationship to Planning Policy Framework

SPG represents non-statutory planning guidance that supports, clarifies and/or illustrates, by example, policies included within the current planning policy framework, including development plans and regional planning guidance. The information set out in this SPG should therefore be read in conjunction with the existing planning policy framework, most notably the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) for Northern Ireland and the Belfast Local Development Plan Strategy. Where relevant to a specific development proposal, this document once adopted will be a material consideration when determining planning applications. Developers should consider the guidance provided in relation to the uses specified within this document at the earliest opportunity when they are formulating their proposals. Early dialogue with the council and other relevant consultees can help identify what the impacts from the uses within this document are likely to be and how they can be properly dealt with through the planning process.