Episode
Permission & Progress: John Spain on Irish Planning
- Podcast
- IPI Planners Podcast
- Published
- Sep 14, 2025
- Duration seconds
- 3148
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://share.transistor.fm/s/e490ee78
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Summary
In this episode, planning consultant John Spain reflects on over three decades shaping Ireland’s built environment — from the stagnation of the 1980s to the high-speed growth of the Celtic Tiger, and today’s complex challenges around housing, infrastructure, and viability. Host Seán O’Leary talks with Spain about founding his own practice, navigating major legislative shifts, and why timelines, trust, and viability are now the critical levers in planning. They explore the impact of judicial reviews, investor confidence, and the need for smarter transition policies. Spain also offers grounded advice for those entering the profession today — and a candid view on what it will take to actually meet Ireland’s housing targets. Whether you’re in public or private practice, this is a must-listen for anyone who wants a clear-eyed view of planning in Ireland: where it’s been, and where it needs to go. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT · What viability really means in a planning context – and why it matters · How delays and uncertainty scare off investment · Why housing permissions aren’t translating into homes · The quiet infrastructure issues no one’s fixing · What it takes to build — and sustain — a planning practice · Planning through legislative change and goalpost shifts GUEST DETAILS John Spain is the founder of JSA and now holds the role of Consultant at JSA having held the position of Managing Director until March 2025. John has over thirty years of experience in planning and development in Ireland and the UK. In that time he has represented a large number of private and public sector clients and has been involved in a wide range of diverse projects. Prior to establishing JSA, John was Associate Director of Hillier Parker, a leading UK firm of chartered surveyors and planning consul…