Government launches public consultation on building control

The government has launched a public consultation on its proposed new building control regulations. Environment minister Phil Hogan announced the new rules last year following the high profile failure of the Priory Hall development in Dublin to meet fire regulations, but details have just been released.

The rules propose a number of new initiatives including the introduction of mandatory certs confirming a building complies with building regulations, the lodgment of drawings showing how a building will comply, "more efficient pooling of building control staff and resources", and "standardised approaches and common protocols" so building control is more consistent across the country.

However, the new regulations are unlikely to satisfy those who have demanded a dramatic increase the number of on-site building inspections. Local authorities currently have a target to inspect 12-15% of new buildings.

The closing date for submissions is Thursday, 24 May. Further details are available on the department website. A separate consultation on how to improve fire safety in apartment blocks was held earlier this year.