The County Donegal Development Plan 2024-2030 sets out a strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of Donegal from 2024-2030. It guides future planning decisions around housing, urban regeneration, transport, economic development, and built heritage.  The Plan also contains Area Plans for key settlements in Donegal. 

The Proposed Variation (No. 1) to the CDP 2024-2030 to be published for public consultation in January 2026 proposes to add new Area Plans for An Clochán Liath, Bridgend, Ballyshannon, Carndonagh, Donegal Town and Killybegs to the plan, make Residential Zoned Land Tax (RZLT) related zoning changes, and make other minor changes to the Buncrana, Ballybofey/Stranorlar and Letterkenny Area Plans. 

Separately in June 2024 the Minister of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage issued a Draft Ministerial Direction.  This has the effect of freezing the parts of the development plan highlighted in yellow in the plan and on otherwise on land use zoning maps (all other parts being in effect). Following public consultation, the Minister is still considering a recommendation from the Office of the Planning Regulator to issue the Direction with minor amendments.