PUBLIC consultation events for major planning applications are being suspended to allow construction projects to move forward during the coronavirus lockdown.
Stormont infrastructure minister Nichola Mallon said the requirement will be lifted for five months from May 1 to prevent applications becoming invalid.
The move, which aims to help prevent the spread of coronavirus, will see applicants provided with alternative suggestions on how the public can provide input into the planning process.
Ms Mallon said: "The planning system will have a critical role in supporting our future economic and societal recovery from the Covid-19 crisis.
"It is vital that the process continues to function, keeping an eye to the future and to keep Northern Ireland moving forward at this difficult time."
She added: "This is an essential step that will help unlock significant major planning applications across the north.
"If legislation is not implemented this would result in the application process being invalid, leading to a backlog of major applications which could hinder our economic recovery after Covid-19 restrictions are lifted."
