Limerick Chamber has said that the commencement of a consultation process for strategic planning and development framework for Ireland between now and 2040 paves the way for the most important conversation to bring about economic balance across the nation.
Director of Policy with Limerick Chamber, Caroline Kelleher, said: “We welcome the recognition by the Government of the need to tap the underutilised potential of our regional cities with focused policies and investments to act as a counterbalance to Dublin. The previous National Spatial Strategy with numerous destinations for gateways and hubs was ineffective and failed to achieve balanced regional development.
“It must be recognised that cities have a key role in the development of their hinterlands and driving growth for the wider region. While hard choices will have to be made, it is imperative that the Government now utilises policy and resources to promote higher performing regional cities.
“It is positive to see the Government recognise the need to equip the regions with the right mix of physical and social infrastructure and further recognises the need for a coordinated approach to implementing the forthcoming Framework with particular emphasis on drawing together Government initiatives such as Rebuilding Ireland, the Action Plan for Rural Development and the Action Plan for Jobs among others.”
If we want to be serious about obtaining balanced regional development, we must recognise the need for consistency between capital investment plans and strategic planning, she added.
“Capital investment influences patterns of development and economic growth by boosting long run potential output. It is imperative that there are clear linkages between the forthcoming National Planning Framework and the Mid-Term Review of the Capital Plan.
“This discussion must advance the case of a number of key projects, not least the M20 motorway between Limerick and Cork, which will create a seamless motorway from Cork, taking in the cities of Limerick and Galway. This will act as a key conduit for economic development along a corridor that can be a powerful counterbalance to Dublin and, indeed, support Dublin by taking pressure off the capital.
“It must also focus on making sure the environment is right for airports to grow as there’s a direct link between airport growth and regional development. The more that Shannon can grow, the more region stands to grow.”
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