TII outlines land acquisition and greenway strategy updates
Transport Infrastructure Ireland detailed its role and processes regarding compulsory purchase orders impacting agriculture during a recent committee session. The discussion highlighted ongoing reviews of greenway strategies and codes to enhance collaboration with landowners and local authorities nationwide.
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TII & Luas Infrastructure News
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⏱️ 2 min read
Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) appeared before the Joint Committee on Agriculture and Food to discuss the effects of Greenways, railways, and road projects on agricultural land, focusing on the use of Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs). Chief Executive Lorcan O’Connor, alongside Geraldine Fitzpatrick and Mary Flynn, outlined TII’s statutory duties under the Roads Act 1993 and recent ministerial directives assigning them oversight of national and regional greenways. They emphasised the partnership model with local authorities responsible for project delivery and maintenance.
CPOs, a legal mechanism dating back to the 19th century, enable state bodies to acquire private land for public infrastructure. TII clarified that while local authorities apply for CPOs through An Coimisiún Pleanála, the process encourages voluntary negotiations throughout, with arbitration as a last resort. The organisation also highlighted ex-gratia payments such as goodwill and sustainability payments to landowners. Specific agreements with farming bodies ensure fixed compensation rates and dispute resolution options, reinforcing collaborative engagement.
Looking ahead, TII acknowledged concerns raised by landowners and farming groups and is actively working with the Department of Transport to enhance current procedures. A comprehensive review of the National and Regional Greenways Strategy is underway, with consultations planned to conclude in 2027. Concurrently, ongoing evaluations of the Greenways Code of Best Practice and design standards aim to balance infrastructure delivery with agricultural and community interests. TII reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local authorities and safeguarding public investment while promoting sustainable transport infrastructure.
CPOs, a legal mechanism dating back to the 19th century, enable state bodies to acquire private land for public infrastructure. TII clarified that while local authorities apply for CPOs through An Coimisiún Pleanála, the process encourages voluntary negotiations throughout, with arbitration as a last resort. The organisation also highlighted ex-gratia payments such as goodwill and sustainability payments to landowners. Specific agreements with farming bodies ensure fixed compensation rates and dispute resolution options, reinforcing collaborative engagement.
Looking ahead, TII acknowledged concerns raised by landowners and farming groups and is actively working with the Department of Transport to enhance current procedures. A comprehensive review of the National and Regional Greenways Strategy is underway, with consultations planned to conclude in 2027. Concurrently, ongoing evaluations of the Greenways Code of Best Practice and design standards aim to balance infrastructure delivery with agricultural and community interests. TII reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local authorities and safeguarding public investment while promoting sustainable transport infrastructure.
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