New national planning rules for short-term lets are set to have implications for Waterford City.

The Government has approved a new National Planning Statement aimed at creating a more consistent approach to how local authorities deal with planning applications for short-term letting accommodation.

Under the new policy, planning authorities will generally be expected not to grant new permissions for short-term lets in cities and larger towns with populations of more than 20,000.

That threshold includes Waterford City.

Outside larger urban centres, local authorities will be given greater flexibility to approve short-term lets, with providers in smaller towns and rural areas also being given more time to bring properties into compliance with planning requirements.

The Government says the approach is intended to balance demand for long-term housing with the importance of short-term accommodation to tourism and local economies.

Housing Minister James Browne said too many entire homes are currently being used for short-term letting in areas facing housing shortages.

‘As Minister for Housing, my priority has to be encouraging more homes back into the rental market for people who want to live long term in a particular local area or in their own community,’ he said.

Minister of State for Local Government and Planning and Waterford TD John Cummins said the new statement would provide greater clarity for both local authorities and property owners.

‘This National Planning Statement brings certainty for stakeholders and clarity around the planning process for short-term lets,’ he said.

‘It will also support and guide local authorities deciding on planning applications for short-term lettings while recognising that each application must be considered on its own merits and in the context of the particular circumstances of the case.’

Mr. Cummins said the overall aim was to strike a balance between long-term housing needs and supporting the tourism sector.

Under separate short-term letting legislation, providers will also be required to register with Fáilte Ireland and confirm that their properties comply with planning requirements.

The national short-term letting register is due to open on the 1st of December.