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 consultants. John has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Studies from Trinity College Dublin and a Master’s Degree in Regional and Urban Planning from University College Dublin.
John is a past president and Fellow of the Irish Planning Institute and a current Council Member of Property Industry Ireland. He is also a Member of the Society of Chartered Surveyors and the Royal Town Planning Institute. John is also a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
QUOTES
Viability is a critical issue. And if planners want to achieve their objectives — which is to meet their housing needs — you have to consider viability. – John Spain
Timelines are everything. Investors can deal with a ‘yes’ or a ‘no’ — but what they can’t deal with is not knowing when. – John Spain
At the peak, we had 82,000 housing units applied for. Now we’re down to 46,000 — and we need to double that just to meet our targets – John Spain
Policy change is necessary, but you can’t keep moving the goalposts mid-game. That’s when confidence breaks down – John Spain
We don’t have a delivery mechanism for the small stuff — the road, the pipe, the access — and that’s what’s stalling entire developments – John Spain
PODCAST HOST DETAILS
Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI is a highly respected Senior Planner at the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) and a key voice in the field of Irish planning.
With extensive experience and a deep understanding of planning policy and practice, Dr. O'Leary brings a wealth of knowledge to "The Planners' Podcast."
His insights are invaluable for professionals and enthusiasts alike seeking to navigate the complexities of urban and rural development in Ireland.
As a member of the Irish Planning Institute (MIPI), Dr. O'Leary demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of the planning profession.
Through his work with the IPI and his engaging contributions to the podcast, he helps to demystify planning concepts, explore current challenges, and highlight innovative solutions. His authoritative presence significantly enhances the podcast's value, making it an essential resource for anyone interested in the future of planning in Ireland.
Find out more: https://ipi.ie/
ABOUT THE IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTE
The Irish Planning Institute (IPI) is the all-island professional body for planners in Ireland, dedicated to advancing the field of physical, spatial, and environmental planning for the common good. Established in 1975, the IPI plays a vital role in shaping sustainable development across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Through its diverse membership, which includes professionals from public, private, and academic sectors, the IPI offers a unified voice on critical planning issues.
As the publisher of "The Planners' Podcast," the Irish Planning Institute demonstrates its commitment to fostering informed discussion and professional development. The IPI actively works to raise planning standards, articulate expert opinion, contribute to planning education, and promote environmental awareness. By providing a platform for leading voices like Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI, the IPI ensures that its podcast remains a leading resource for insights into Irish planning policy, challenges, and future directions.
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The Planners Podcast is produced for IPI by dustpod.io
