"The economy and the environment are not mutually exclusive and there are shared benefits to be had; not least in the growth of our green economy.
"I urge the Minister to keep the Assembly fully up to date with his proposals and seek as much input as possible."
Shadow Minister for Business, Nick Ramsay AM, said:
"It should not be forgotten that in England – where similar planning relaxation has been proposed today – Labour is busy criticising it outright.
"While the economy must rightly come at the top of everyone’s agenda in the current climate, great care must be taken in maintaining sustainable development and finding the correct balance."