European Union: Construction & Planning

Matheson's quarterly construction bulletin examines recent developments in Ireland's construction and infrastructure sectors, including a simplified Building Energy Rating scale...

The Critical Infrastructure Act 2026 is commenced, as we outline in our Insights blog post: Critical Infrastructure Act 2026 commenced. Several projects have been designated as critical infrastructure projects, as we outline in our public procurement section.

Ireland's Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2026 introduces significant reforms to judicial review procedures and planning law, while new EU packaging regulations and climate action consultations signal major environmental policy shifts. Key court decisions address wind turbine noise nuisance and water quality obligations under EU directives.

Buying property in Cyprus involves significant financial commitment and hidden legal risks that extend far beyond what's visible during property viewings. Understanding the legal status, contract terms, and planning regulations is essential for protecting your investment and avoiding costly mistakes that could emerge after purchase.

On 13 May 2026, the German federal cabinet approved the following draft legislation: Act Amending the Building Energy Act; Amending the Building Electromobility Infrastructure Act; and Amending Further Provisions in the Heating Sector. Its centrepiece is the new Building Modernisation Act. The federal government's original target of entry into force by 01 July 2026 now appears unlikely given the parliamentary process ahead. 

The Cypriot real estate market is experiencing a profound structural crisis extending beyond administrative delays to fundamental questions of legality and planning compliance.

The recent placement of warning notices on residential buildings in Germasogeia, calling on occupants to vacate their homes due to structural danger, has once again brought to the forefront the issue of dangerous...

Finland's land use planning system is undergoing a major overhaul with the proposed Land Use Act, introducing significant changes to regional plan authority, planning processes, and renewable energy project requirements. The reform aims to streamline administrative procedures while imposing new distance requirements for wind turbines and planning obligations for solar power plants that will fundamentally reshape how developers approach renewable energy projects.

The Irish Government has published the Critical Infrastructure Bill, a legislative initiative designed to tackle persistent delays in infrastructure approval processes. This development promises to streamline licensing, consenting, and planning procedures for critical infrastructure projects across Ireland.