Local Authority Journal - Autumn 2023 by Ocean Publishing

Local Review of Planning and Infrastructural Projects in Ireland

Journal

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT BILL 2023 A BLUEPRINT FOR MAJOR REFORM

IPI AWARDS FOR INNOVATION AND EXCELLENCE IN PLANNING DUBLIN COUNCILS HAVE ‘SITES’ SET ON SOCIAL HOUSING STOCK INCREASE SEAI PARTNERS WITH LOCAL AUTHORITIES TO REACH 2030 DECARBONISING TARGETS

CONTENTS

NEWS UPDATE

IRISH PLANNING AWARDS

between now and the end of 2027 (the current EU funding period), with calls for the delivery of high-level priorities to support balanced regional development and to reduce regional inequalities in Ireland in its Pre-Budget Submission.

This year’s Irish Planning Awards, including the President’s Award (won by Limerick City and Council), were presented by the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) on 28 September, to all category winners for the diverse range of projects and plans at local, county and regional levels.

SUSTAINABILITY PARTNERSHIP

PLANNING LEGISLATION

DUBLIN HOUSING SCHEME

NORTH-WEST REGIONAL INVESTMENT

SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

LIMERICK HOUSING INVESTMENT

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PLATFORM

MEATH COUNTY COUNCIL

Limerick City and County Council has collaborated with the European Investment Bank in an innovative partnership to drive retrofit investment and to reduce energy consumption and costs in social housing, thereby having a transformative impact on local communities in the region.

The new Planning and Development Bill 2023, which has now received Cabinet approval, is the culmination of a 15-month review of the planning system. The Bill, if enacted, will bring greater clarity, certainty and consistency to how planning decisions are made in Ireland.

South Dublin County Council’s development of 133 new cost rental apartments at Belgard Square North in Tallaght town centre, expected to be completed and occupied in 2025, represents the State’s first standalone cost rental project by a local authority.

Ireland's local authorities have collaborated with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) to reach their decarbonising targets for 2030 under the SEAI’s Public Sector ‘Partnership’ Support Programme.

Autumn 2023

A new property management software solution is being used by local authorities such as Meath County Council, approved housing bodies such as Tuath Housing and Respond, and the Land Development Agency. ‘FairSelect’ aims to make the application process for cost rental accommodation and the selection and management of tenants, fair, unbiased and transparent.

Under a new four-year initiative to support the housing market in the capital. Dublin City Council, Dun LaoghaireRathdown, South Dublin and Fingal County Councils are calling out to housing developers and home builders to help them to activate or complete turnkey residential units.

Meath’s GAA Football Manager, Colm O’Rourke, has been appointed to chair the Meath Economic Development Forum, recently established to oversee the preparation and

The Northern and Western Regional Assembly (NWRA) claims that a stimulus package of €570m should be provided

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CONTENTS

implementation of the new Meath Economic Development Strategy. The Forum of business leaders and entrepreneurs will share their experiences to facilitate economic activity and growth in the county.

EUROPEAN NEWS

EU REGIONAL PROGRAMMES

ZERO CARBON INFRASTRUCTURE

Ireland’s renewable energy integration success has been cited as “an example for other EU Member States” by Seán Kelly MEP, when he hosted a recent conference on ‘Powering up Europe: Unlocking Ireland's offshore wind potential to help achieve EU climate targets,’ at the European Parliament in Brussels.

CROSS-BORDER ENVIRONMENT

Cross-border collaboration, funding, and the greater use of the Good Friday Agreement are key to protecting the environment north and south of the border, according to a new report ‘Linking the Irish Environment’ which found that divergence is likely to make it increasingly difficult for environment NGOs to operate and collaborate.

Autumn 2023

SEA PILOT CONSULTATION PROJECT

A pilot project has examined new approaches to public engagement as part of the Dundalk Local Area Plan 20242030 SEA (Strategic Environmental Assessment) in Louth. It was part of a research project aimed at enhancing SEA public participation in Ireland, funded by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Office of the Planning Regulator.

The Zero Carbon Infrastructure project has set an ambitious goal to support eight cities and regions across Europe in their efforts to develop green transport and zero-carbon infrastructure. Cork City Council has joined seven European partners in this four-year project in a bid to reach the target of being a carbon-neutral city by 2030.

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NEWS UPDATE

SHORTLISTED ENTRIES FOR 2023 LOCAL GOVERNMENT AWARDS Finalists in this year’s Excellence in Local Government (ELG) Awards were recently announced by Chambers Ireland, with 91 local authority projects shortlisted in over 15 categories. Now in its 20th year and held annually in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the awards ceremony will take place on Thursday 23 November at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Santry, Dublin. This year includes the new ‘Urban Revival’ category, which showcases innovative efforts by local authorities to take action in transforming their urban areas. Congratulating the shortlisted entrants, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien, said: “It is vital that the good work done by For the awards shortlist visit https://chambers.ie/press-releases/locallocal authorities is showcased to the wider community, displaying how their essential role contributes daily government-awards-shortlist-announced-2/ positively to the lives of the people who live in the more parts of our urban areas become attractive and vibrant community.” places in which to live, work, visit and invest.” Minister O’Brien said the new ‘Urban Revival’ category this Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland, said that year will exhibit local authorities that bring vitality back to towns the awards showcased the inventiveness and innovation by local and streets through creating sustainable, people-friendly urban authorities. Awards will be presented in 15 different categories, environments. while one local authority will receive the overall award and “This is crucial to supporting government objectives and various named Local Authority of the Year 2023. programmes delivered through my department. This will ensure

LIMERICK’S DIRECTLY ELECTED MAYOR TO HAVE EXECUTIVE POWERS Proposed legislation to create the office for a directly elected mayor for Limerick has been published, with the election to be held alongside the Local and European Elections, between 6-9 June 2024. Having a directly elected mayor with executive functions will enable the people of Limerick to have a greater say over the delivery of services and infrastructure and how the city develops, as they voted for by plebiscite, according to Kieran O’Donnell, Minister of State for Local Government and Planning. The plebiscite in 2019 saw the people of Limerick vote in favour of creating the office. Similar proposals in Cork and

Waterford were defeated, while in 2020 Galway City Council passed a motion calling for a plebiscite on a proposal for a directly elected mayor with executive functions. The Government has signalled plans to potentially hold such a plebiscite in Dublin next June. “A key milestone to having the first directly elected mayor in Ireland, it is also one of the most significant reforms of local government since the foundation of our state, with Limerick leading the way,” the Minister has noted. The Local Government (Mayor of Limerick) Bill, which establishes the office of mayor and its mayoral functions, sets out the governance structures to support the office and provides a code for the mayoral election. It also makes provision for holding plebiscites in other local authority areas on the question of whether or not to have a directly elected mayor. Minister O’Donnell added: “The directly elected mayor will take on many of the executive functions which currently rest with the chief executive, in addition to a host of new functions, supported by a budget to implement the mayor’s programme and priorities. “This legislation provides the Mandate, Structures and Means to deliver on the ambition of the office of the first directly elected mayor of Limerick. It provides a major opportunity for the city to forge an enhanced local government, with huge potential to develop service delivery and accountability locally, adding value for the people of Limerick.”

NEWS UPDATE

PUBLIC CONSULTATION ON EV CHARGING NETWORK PLAN ROLLED OUT A public consultation on the National En-Route EV Charging Network Plan, which has been developed by Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI), is now open and will see EV chargers installed every 60km on major roads. The National En-Route EV Charging Network Plan identifies the level of charging infrastructure required for the national road network to keep ahead of the needs of the quickly growing EV driver population. This includes the steps for implementation and successful delivery, timelines and the potential funding supports to accelerate delivery. Launching the public consultation, the Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan TD, said: “The National EV Charging Network Plan will drive the delivery of charging infrastructure on the National Road Network. The Plan sets out ambitious targets for the level and coverage needed for En-Route charging on our national roads network. “The implementation of this plan through enhanced grid connections, funding interventions and enabling measures will remove barriers and accelerate the delivery of high-powered EV charging. It is the first element of the National EV Charging Network Plan, which will cover all publicly accessible EV charging. “In addition to the En-Route charging infrastructure, ZEVI is also working with local authorities to develop the other elements of this national plan which will include destination and neighbourhood charging.”

The National Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Strategy 2022-2025, launched earlier this year, aims to deliver a national EV charging network across the country. It will support the Transport Chapter of the Government’s CAP ambitions in steps to reduce Ireland’s carbon emission journey towards a fully decarbonised transport sector by 2050. Friday 10 November is the closing date to take part in the public consultation.

DUBLIN TO HOST INTERNATIONAL SOCIAL HOUSING FESTIVAL 2025 Dublin has been selected to host the International Social Housing Festival in 2025, an initiative by Housing Europe, the European Federation of Public, Co-operative and Social Housing, its members and allies across 25 countries. Donal McManus, CEO of the Irish Council for Social Housing (ICSH), said that. “Hosting the event in Dublin is an opportunity to learn from international best practice in terms of public housing delivery, while also demonstrating some of the work underway in Ireland to ramp-up delivery under the ‘Housing for All’ plan.

Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien, accepted the handover to Dublin for 2025, at the closing ceremony of ISHF 2023 in Barcelona in June.

“We’re delighted to have the support from the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’ Brien, the Housing Agency, the Housing Finance Agency, Dublin’s four local authorities, the UCD Geary Institute and Fáilte Ireland.” Tina Donaghy, President of the ICSH, noted that hosting the event in Dublin will allow approved housing bodies and local authorities to demonstrate the progress made under the government’s housing plan. “It is also an opportunity to share ideas and learn from the experiences of our colleagues both in Europe and further afield. Sharing information and solutions is important as we seek to deliver more much-needed homes.” The International Social Housing Festival (ISHF) is an initiative by Housing Europe, the European Federation of Public, Cooperative and Social Housing, and its members and allies, present in 25 countries. The first ISHF took place in Amsterdam in 2017 and was attended by some 1,300 people with a total of 45 events over two days. The second was organised in Lyon in 2019 and involved some 5,000 participants and 70 events over four days. The third, planned for 2021 had to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and finally took place in June 2022 in Helsinki, where about 1,000 people participated in 80 different activities over three days. The 2023 festival took place in Barcelona on 7-9 June. For background information on the festival visit https:// socialhousingfestival.eu/about/

RIVER DODDER FLOOD PROTECTION PROJECT

Flood Protection – Enhanced Environment Civic Amenity

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NEWS UPDATE

CORK CITY COUNCIL MAKES ITS MARK WITH SMARTER TRAVEL AWARD Cork City Council was recently awarded the Smarter Travel Mark (Silver Level) from the National Transport Authority and becomes Ireland's first local authority to receive the mark. The Smarter Travel Mark certification, first announced by Transport Minister Eamon Ryan in May 2023, recognises and celebrates organisations that support active and sustainable travel and a reduction in single-person car usage amongst their staff. All employers from the private or public sectors can apply for the Smarter Travel Mark. Cork City Council has implemented several initiatives to help with the change to active and sustainable travel such as the introduction of an electric car fleet, provision of changing facilities, the use of regular, electric and cargo bikes as well as providing additional bike parking spaces. Over 50% of staff now use sustainable and active travel to travel to and from work. Ann Doherty, Chief Executive of Cork City Council, said “Achieving the Smarter Travel Mark demonstrates that the council prioritises the importance and value of sustainable travel initiatives and the associated environmental benefits. We look forward to implementing further Smarter Travel initiatives to support staff in choosing environmentally friendly transport options.” Anne Graham, Chief Executive Officer at the National Transport Authority said: “The Smarter Travel Mark is a recognition of employerled sustainable travel initiatives. Reducing carbon emissions and alleviating traffic congestion is a priority. I would encourage all employers to be part of the Smarter Travel Mark initiative.”

Ann O’Doherty, Chief Executive of Cork City Council, with John O’Flynn (right), Head of Customer Experience at NTA and Frank Fitzgerald (left), Sustainable Travel & Road Safety Awareness Officer for Sports & Sustainability Section, Cork City Council.

DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL ROLLS OUT IRELAND’S FIRST AUGMENTED REALITY MAP Dublin City Council has launched Ireland’s first augmented and history and we see huge potential to expand this.” reality (AR) mapping feature, which allows users of the Tourists and locals alike can use the app before they visit Dublin Discovery Trails app to open up a 3D map of Dublin the city, or while they are in the city to assist them in learning on their device and allows them to explore the city in a new, more about its extensive history, sights, monuments and streets innovative way. across the capital city. ‘DiscovAR Dublin’ – a first for Ireland in utilising new open Google Maps technology to form an interactive 3D map – enables users to interact with the map to uncover the city’s landmarks, museums and attractions. They can also learn more about the history and significance of locations such as the Guinness Storehouse, EPIC (the Irish Emigration Museum) and 14 Henrietta Street. The project is a collaboration between the Dublin City Council, Smart Dublin and Virgin Media Business alongside Peel X, who developed the feature for the Dublin Discovery Trails app. Launched in 2022, the app is a platform on which the Dublin local authorities can develop new immersive experiences combining the real-world history with smart technologies. Already there are unique experiences published including ‘Doors into Docklands’, in addition to heritage tours in Balbriggan and Castleknock. Jamie Cudden, DCC's Smart City Programme Manager; Lord Mayor of Jamie Cudden, Smart City team leader with Dublin Dublin, Daithi de Roiste; Sarah Costigan, CEO of Little Museum of Dublin, City Council, said, “We’re always thinking about ways and Luke Smith, Head of Technology at EPIC, at the launch of a new to embrace new technologies to enhance how people augmented-reality (AR) mapping feature. For more information visit engage with our city. This app, through its immersive AR technology, is a new way to explore the city’s culture http://dublindiscoverytrails.com

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NEWS UPDATE

LOCAL AUTHORITIES TO USE CCTV IN BATTLE AGAINST ILLEGAL DUMPING The Local Government Management Agency is due to launch codes of practice, which will enable local authorities to use CCTV and other technologies to detect and tackle illegal dumping, under legislation which was brought into law last year. The Circular Economy and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2022 provides for the GDPR-compliant use of a range of technologies, such as CCTV, for waste enforcement purposes to support efforts to tackle illegal dumping and littering, while protecting the privacy rights of citizens. The Act was signed into law by President Michael D Higgins in 2022. However, local authorities across Ireland are still waiting on the green light to use CCTV to tackle illegal dumping and littering. This is because the Government is yet to receive codes of practice from the LGMA on the topic, and until such time as these codes of practice are examined and signed off on by the Government, CCTV cannot be used by local authorities to tackle these issues. “Local authorities have sought to be in a position to make use of CCTV as an option in tackling illegal dumping and pollution for some time, and worked, through the County and City Management Association, with the Data Protection Commission and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications to progress this,” the LGMA noted in a statement. It added that the Circular Economy Act provides for the use of CCTV and other technologies to support waste management. Section

22 of the Act requires that to ensure a standard and compliant approach by the 31 local authorities, the LGMA develops codes of practice for approval by the Minister. The Agency said that a working group has been established and the codes of practice are well advanced and are now being legal [sic] reviewed.” “It is expected that draft codes will be prepared for consultation with the relevant bodies as required under the Act, once the legal review is complete. This consultation will inform a final draft, which will be submitted

GOVERNMENT ROLLS OUT €150M FUND FOR LOCAL AUTHORITY HOUSING SCHEMES Details of a €150m fund to end long-term vacancy and dereliction in towns and cities were recently announced by the Taoiseach, Tánaiste, Ministers Eamon Ryan and Darragh O’Brien, as part of the quarterly ‘Housing for All’ progress update. The funding will be available to local authorities for towns and cities eligible for the Urban Regeneration Development Fund (URDF). Local authorities, when applying for the funding, have indicated that they could identify projects generating 4,850 residential units.

Local authorities will receive a grant for the entire 100% cost of acquiring suitable properties identified within their communities, reflecting the high priority the Government has placed on boosting accommodation and tackling dereliction It complements several existing schemes to tackle vacancy and dereliction. The Taoiseach, Tánaiste, Minister Ryan and Minister O’Brien also signalled their commitment to boost innovation and capacity in the construction sector, by publishing a ‘Roadmap for Increased Adoption of Modern Methods of Construction in Public Housing Delivery’. Modern Methods of Construction have the potential to improve construction sector productivity, innovation, speed of delivery, sustainability and ultimately costs. The quarterly review revealed that work has started on 13,000 new homes since January, with large numbers buying their own home, boosted by schemes such as ‘Help to Buy’ and ‘First Home’. During the second quarter, planning permission was approved for over 2,500 homes on state lands, €104m in funding was allocated to build 853 social and affordable homes at Oscar Traynor Road in Dublin, with €62m in funding allocated for more than 1,000 student accommodation beds. The first contract was signed under the Croí Cónaithe (Cities) Scheme to activate building of homes for owner-occupiers. A review of the National Planning Framework has started, along with a public consultation on the future of the rental sector in Ireland and the development of a new action plan to promote careers in construction.

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NEWS UPDATE

YOUR VOTE WILL COUNT WHEN IT MATTERS – REGISTER ON VOTER.IE Dublin’s four local authorities – Dublin City Council, Fingal County Council, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and South Dublin County Council – are now calling on all residents of the capital to register to vote or to update details on www.voter.ie. Recent changes in legislation underscore the importance of maintaining accurate voter information. For existing registered voters, local authorities have advised to update personal details, including current address and Eircode, Date of Birth and Personal Public Service Number (PPSN). These updates enable local authorities to cross-reference and verify voter information, reinforcing the integrity of the voting system and upholding the principles of fairness and transparency. This campaign has been rolled out across radio, outdoor, print and digital channels. Local authorities in Dublin will also undertake activities in their local areas to encourage people to get their details up

to date in advance of upcoming elections. The www.voter.ie digital portal offers all residents living in Dublin (aged 18 and over), an accessible way to engage in the democratic process and ensure their voice is heard in upcoming elections.

People aged 16-17 can pre-register to vote now. This means that when they turn 18, they will be automatically eligible to vote. This will simplify and modernise the process for new voters and reduce the possibility of missing registration.

REDUCTION IN GAS EMISSIONS, MUCH MORE WORK TO BE DONE – EPA The EPA’s provisional greenhouse gas emissions for 2022 revealed a reduction of 1.9 per cent compared to 2021 with a drop across all key sectors except transport. However, the environmental watchdog says that much more work remains to be done and the decrease in emissions needs to be significantly ramped up. The report highlights that 47 per cent of Ireland’s Carbon Budget for 2021-2025 has been used in the first two years. An extremely challenging annual reduction of 12.4 per cent is required for each of the remaining years if Ireland is to stay within the Budget, it notes. The figures reveal that Ireland exceeded its 2022 annual limit under the EU’s Effort Sharing Regulation (EU 2018/842). These annual limits have been reduced further from 2023

onwards as Ireland’s Effort Sharing commitment showed a 30 per cent reduction on the 2005 level by 2030 to a 42 per cent reduction. Laura Burke, EPA Director General, noted that it’s been encouraging to see the impact of action across key economic sectors. “Drivers for this reduction were higher fossil fuel prices and associated behavioural change, more renewable energy and the impact of regulation such as the nationwide ban on smoky fuels in home heating.” However, she pointed out that the decrease in emissions also needs to be significantly ramped up. “We need faster progress on the actions set out in national climate action plans to decarbonise and transform all sectors of Ireland’s economy, to stay within National Carbon Budgets and reduce our Greenhouse Gas emissions by 51 per cent by 2030.” Reacting to the EPA emissions figures for 2022, the Chief Executive of Friends of the Earth, said it was “only a dip and not yet the dramatic reductions” needed. Oisín Coghlan noted that it was good to see that policy change can cut pollution, with the impact of the much-discussed smoky fuels ban evident in the EPA figures. “This is just one year and not yet a trend. Overall, we’ve used half of our carbon budget from 2021 to 2025 in the first two years. We need much braver policy change, faster and more disciplined implementation across all government departments and state agencies if we are going to stay within our legally binding limits on pollution to 2025 and 2030.

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2020 Overall Na onal Winner at Excellence in Placemaking Awards for excep onal developments at Honeypark & Cualanor Winner 2013

Winner 2016

Energy Efficiency Award

Community Benefit Project

WINNER 2015

Winner 2014 - 2016

NEWS UPDATE

NATIONAL COMMUNITY HOUSING AWARDS 2023 A total of 30 projects ranging from energy optimisation to social integration in rural and urban settings throughout Ireland have been shortlisted for this year’s Irish Council for Social Housing (ICSH) Community Housing Awards. The Community Housing Awards serve to showcase housing association and local authority public housing schemes at their very best, in delivering projects which are seen to be innovative ‘whole of community’ responses to a nationwide housing crisis. Projects shortlisted for the ICSH Allianz Community Housing Awards 2023 will also compete in the Public Choice Award 2023, to give members of the public an opportunity to support a project that they feel deserves due recognition. Donal McManus, ICSH Chief Executive, said that this year’s award entries demonstrate the scale of the social and affordable housing development work ongoing throughout the country that often remains unseen. “Entries from local authorities, AHBs and co-operative housing bodies exemplify the collaborative work taking place to deliver housing to those who need it most and during very challenging times,” he added. Now in its 20th year, the ICSH Allianz Biennial Community Housing Awards will celebrate family housing projects and those focusing on homelessness and supported housing that recognise the needs of disabled people and evolving supports for older people. Regeneration schemes are at the forefront this year, while projects delivering both affordability for middle income

Donal McManus, ICSH Chief Executive pictured with RTÉ's Anne Cassin, who will present the awards at the ICSH Biennial National Social Housing Conference on 18 October in Clayton Whites Hotel, Wexford. households and solutions that address energy poverty and lower carbon emissions are newcomers to the 11 Community Housing Awards categories.

HOUSING ALLIANCE LAUNCH NEW REPORT ON DECARBONISING SOCIAL HOUSING The Housing Alliance – a collaboration of six of Ireland’s largest Approved Housing Bodies – has launched a new report on decarbonising social housing. The publication entitled ‘Providing environmental leadership in social housing to advance Climate Action Goals’ was commissioned by the Housing Alliance to identify the issues, challenges and opportunities for delivering a decarbonised housing sector.

The report sets out recommendations to enable the Housing Alliance members – Clúid Housing, Circle Voluntary Housing, Co-operative Housing Ireland, Oaklee Housing, Respond and Tuath Housing – to work together to tackle climate challenges. Clúid Housing’s National Sustainability Manager Susan Vickers said that the one of the nine key recommendations from this report is the establishment of a Climate Action Working Group in the Housing Alliance. “This will deal with the many complex issues and challenges involved in meeting our climate goals and providing environmental leadership.” The Housing Alliance has since established this working group, and she was encouraged with the positive response she received on presenting the terms of reference of this new Climate Action Group at the launch of the report in September. Steven Matthews, TD and Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage, launched the report at the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (RCPI) alongside a panel of experts who discussed how social housing can lead the way in environmental leadership for climate action. The Housing Agency funded the report’s research, which was conducted by Sustainability Works.

Pictured outside the RCPI following the launch of the report (l-r): Steven Matthews, TD and Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Ad Hereijgers from consultancy agency Ritterwald, Clúid Housing’s Susan-Vickers and Mervyn-Jones from Savills UK.

To read the full report visit https://housingalliance.ie/ decarbonising-social-housing/

IRISH PLANNING AWARDS 2023

IPI REWARDS INNOVATION AND EXCELLENCE IN PLANNING The category winners of this year’s Irish Planning Awards, including the President’s Award, which was won by Limerick City and Council, were announced by the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) at the awards gala on 28 September, to acknowledge the diverse range of projects and plans taking place at local, county and regional levels around the country.

his year’s President’s Award, which was presented to Limerick City and Council at the IPI Planning Awards 2023 ceremony on 28 September in Dublin’s Clontarf Castle, served to highlight examples of excellent public participation and best practice. Limerick’s ‘Young Person Participation in Land Use Planning’ project formulated trailed and implemented a school consultation programme to engage young people in the preparation of the development plan and local area plan processes. The President’s Award was presented by Kieran O’Donnell TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Local Government and Planning. IPI President Mary Mac Mahon said that the awards serve as a testament to the invaluable role of planning in Irish society. “They celebrate our diverse, dynamic, and sustainable projects, showcasing the positive impact of planning on Pictured at the presentation of the President’s Award to Limerick City & County our communities. Council were (l-r): Vincent Murray, Limerick’s Director of Planning, Environment “As President, it’s been my privilege to and Placemaking; Kieran O’Donnell TD, Minister of State with responsibility for elevate the profile of planning and to honour the Local Government and Planning; Mary Mac Mahon, IPI President; Maria Woods, achievements, diversity, and potential within our Senior Planner; Siobhan O'Dwyer, Executive Planner; Karen Burke, Senior sector. With entries spanning the island, all our Executive Planner, and Cllr Dan McSweeney, Limerick’s Deputy Mayor. winners exemplify excellence.” A total of 24 entries recognised out of 48 THE CATEGORY WINNERS FOR 2023: entries submitted, which included public and private sector organisations from Dublin, Kildare, • President’s Award – Limerick City and County Council – Young Person Participation in Land Use Planning Limerick, Cork, Antrim, Tipperary, Meath, Clare, Louth, Galway, Offaly and Donegal. • Plan Making – Kildare County Council – The Athy Local Area Plan 2021-2027 This year’s judging panel comprised Mary Mac and the Development of a New Generation of Local Area Plans for Kildare Mahon MIPI (IPI President), Charlotte Sheridan MIPI • Employment & Enterprise – County Kildare Leader Partnership CLG – (RIAI President), Henk van der Kamp FIPI (Secretary Barrow Blueway Economic Plan General of the ECTP-CEU – the umbrella organisation • Urban Regeneration and Heritage – Donegal County Council – for spatial planning institutes in Europe and past Ballyshannon Historic Towns Initiative Project president of the IPI), Terry Prendergast MIPI (former • Climate Action Biodiversity – EirGrid – The Celtic Interconnector – Good board member of An Bord Pleanála) and John O’Hara Practice linking Planning, the Planner & Climate Change MIPI (former Dublin City Council Planning Officer). The Department of Housing, Local Government, • Sustainable Communities and Placemaking – Meath County Council – and Heritage was the main awards sponsor, in Kilcloon Community Development addition to Wave Dynamics Acoustic Consultants and • Research and Innovation – EMRA on behalf of the three regional Uisce Éireann. assemblies of Ireland – Regional Development Monitor (RDM) and joint The individual categories of 'Climate Action and winner South Dublin County Council – ‘Instantaneous Data’ – A South Biodiversity' and 'Research and Innovation' were Dublin Approach to Active Land Management sponsored by FuturEnergy Ireland and the Office of • Workplace of the Year – South Dublin County Council – #Making it Work the Planning Regulator (OPR) respectively. @ SDCC_Planning 16

IRISH PLANNING AWARDS 2023

Mary Mac Mahon, President of the Irish Planning Institute (IPI), presented awards to the other seven category winners.

Plan Making - Kildare County Council

Employment & Enterprise - County Kildare Leader Programme

Urban Regeneration & Heritage - Donegal County Council

Climate Action and Biodiversity - Eirgrid (award sponsored by FuturEnergy Ireland)

Sustainable Communities & Placemaking - Meath County Council

Research & Innovation - Joint Winner EMRA on behalf of Ireland's three regional assemblies (award sponsored by the OPR)

Research & Innovation - Joint Winner South Dublin County Council (sponsored by the OPR)

Workplace of the Year - South Dublin County Council

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SUSTAINABILITY PARTNERSHIP

LOCAL AUTHORITIES RENEW SEAI PARTNERSHIP ON SUSTAINABLE GOAL TARGETS The County and City Management Association (CCMA) has collaborated with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland under the SEAI’s Public Sector ‘Partnership’ Support Programme to enable local authorities to reach their decarbonising targets for 2030.

artnership will enable local authorities to access expert advice on energy efficiency and energy-related decarbonisation including bespoke supports as needed. The SEAI has a long-standing relationship with local authorities focusing on their energy efficiency and now this decarbonisation journey. Within the Public Sector ‘Partnership’ Support Programme, the SEAI will provide all partners with a Partnership Support Manager (PSM), to assess their status against four criteria identified by the SEAI as ‘critical’ to achieving their targets. These are Energy Management, Project Pipeline, Strategy and Overall Performance. Upon assessment, the SEAI then recommends actions and areas targeted for improvement. The programme also liaises the SEAI Pathfinder programme which brings capital to bear for building deep retrofit projects. William Walsh, CEO of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), said that partnership with local authorities will be critical to enabling the delivery of Ireland’s climate obligations. “Local authorities are key to supporting the role that citizens, communities, businesses and the public sector will play in the sustainable energy transition. “Living within our carbon budgets is essential, and local authorities are pivotal to influencing systemic change in the way we do things nationwide. The impact of our partnership will support a continued commitment to achieving 2030 targets.”

delivering Ireland’s national climate action ambitions. “The local government sector leads communities, integrating energy efficiency and emission reduction across our operations.” He added that with the continued support of the SEAI, local authorities will remain committed to meeting the challenge of sustaining, if not increasing, business operations and services for Ireland’s growing population, while aiming to deliver net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. “As we design and implement local climate action plans, we look forward to continuing to build on the achievements we have made to date in substantially reducing energy use, with the valuable support and advice of the SEAI.” Local authorities currently account for 10 % of public sector final energy consumption and 11% of emissions. To achieve these targets for 2030, local authorities will need deep retrofit of their leisure centres and large offices and to decarbonise their fleets. While the CCMA Chair acknowledged that the public sector faces challenging targets and that the journey to achieving this will not be easy, he said that the partnership with the SEA will be very helpful.

CLIMATE ACTION AMBITIONS According to Frank Curran, Chair of the County and City Management Association (CCMA), the councils are key to

Frank Curran, Chairperson of the County and City Management Association (CCMA) pictured with William Walsh, CEO of Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), in LGMA offices on Ushers Quay, Dublin where the partnership agreement was signed.

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PLANNING LEGISLATION

NEW BILL TO PROVIDE A BLUEPRINT FOR PLANNING REFORM Major reforms in Ireland’s planning system are now afoot following recent government approval of the Planning and Development Bill 2023, following a comprehensive 15-month review. The proposed legislation aims to bring greater clarity, certainty and consistency on how planning decisions are made, and to make the system more coherent and user-friendly.

he Planning and Development Bill 2023 (the third largest Bill in the State’s history) represents the largest reshaping of the planning system in Ireland in over two decades since the Planning and Development Act 2000 was enacted. The Government says that it will take a number of weeks to prepare the Planning and Development Bill 2023 for publication due to its size. The Bill runs to almost 700 pages and is the product of a 15-month review by the Office of the Attorney General and extensive stakeholder engagement, to ensure that the new Bill is fit to serve the planning systems and meet today’s challenges and those to come in future decades. Once published, the Planning and Development Bill 2023 will then proceed before the Houses of the Oireachtas, subject to its timetable. The Bill will be enacted on a phased basis, alongside supports and resources for the planning sector and the public to support a smooth transition to the new system. It contains several changes from the Draft Bill published earlier this year, which include more detail on statutory mandatory timelines for consent processes, including for the first time decisions for An Bord Pleanála. It also introduces a significantly revised corporate structure for An Bord Pleanála, which will be renamed An Coimisiún Pleanála, with a separation of corporate, decision making and governance functions. Policies and guidance will be more consistent throughout all tiers of planning, from national to local. Ministerial guidelines and policy directives will be upgraded to National Planning Statements, approved by Government.

PLANNING LEGISLATION

The Bill includes related reforms such as the roll out of e-Planning and a programme of resource review to underpin the many reforms contained in the legislation.

KEY REFORMS IN THE PROPOSED LEGISLATION: • New ten-year Development Plans for local authorities.

• Revision of Environmental Assessment provisions to ensure full compliance and alignment with EU Directives. • Inclusion of further detail regarding changes to the • Increased alignment among the tiers of planning. processes and parameters of planning Judicial Review, such • Significant restructuring of An Bord Pleanála, to be renamed as the removal of the application for leave stage, and the An Coimisiún Pleanála. introduction of a new Environmental Legal Costs Scheme. • Further refinement of detail of the full organisational • Mandatory timelines for decision-making by An Coimisiún restructure of An Coimisiún Pleanála. Pleanála. • The new Bill contains provision for Urban Development Zones • Reform of Planning Judicial Review, including the introduction (UDZs) which will empower local authorities to designate areas of an Environmental Legal Cost Scheme. with significant potential for development, including housing. • New provisions for Urban Development Zones. These areas will be a focus for State investment in key enabling infrastructure to ensure the potential for development can SOME KEY CHANGES FROM ORIGINAL BILL: be realised in a timely manner, with critical land required for infrastructure identified early in the process. • Revision of the plan-making provisions across all tiers of planning for operational consistency and a longer time for completion of development plans, taking on board stakeholder feedback. • Statutory timelines across all consenting processes have been reviewed – including for the first time for An Coimisiún Pleanála. These range from between 18 and 48 weeks depending on the type of application or appeal, with a system of proportionately escalating measures in place if the Commission does not make decisions within the mandatory time limits detailed in the Bill. 23

PLANNING LEGISLATION

TEN-YEAR DEVELOPMENT PLANS The lifespan of development plans will be extended from six to ten years, with a review after year five, and they will be more strategic in nature. The cycles of these plans will align to the cycle of Census data availability, to be reviewed by local elected members every five years. The Bill also reforms aspects of planning judicial review, with changes such as removal of leave for application; refinement of grounds; clarification of sufficient interest and the introduction of a new Environmental Legal Cost Scheme. The Bill builds upon the review undertaken by the Office of the Attorney General and scrutiny by the Joint Oireachtas Committee for Housing of the draft Bill published earlier this year. The key time periods will range from 18 weeks for appeals of decisions of planning authorities to 48 weeks for strategic infrastructure developments. These will be introduced on a phased basis. The headline period for planning authorities to make decisions will remain at eight weeks, with an additional four weeks allowed for applications that require an environmental assessment. If ABP fails to make decisions with these timelines, it will face “proportionately escalating measures”. These include mutually agreed time extensions, public notification and reporting, fines and intervention by the Minister for Housing in the form of a review.

FROM PLANNING BOARD TO PLANNING COMMISSION An Bord Pleanála will be renamed An Coimisiún Pleanála, as part of a significant restructure. Under a new structure the organisation will have three central pillars. * Planning Commissioners: Responsible for all decision-making regarding appeals and applications made and they will be overseen by a newly created position of Chief Planning Commissioner * Governing Board: Responsible for the governance and organisation * Corporate Spine: Provision of support to all the organisations and functions will be overseen by a Chief Executive Officer Statutory time periods will be introduced for decision making for all consent and appeal processes of An Coimisiún Pleanála, delivering increased

CHANGES TO JUDICIAL REVIEW PROCESS The Bill also sets out planned changes to the judicial-review (JR) process for planning decisions. It proposes to remove the application-for-leave stage, to reduce time spent in court and legal costs, while it also limits the ability of applicants to bring amended grounds beyond those originally filed in their applications. On announcing Cabinet approval for the new Bill, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said: “We need faster planning decisions, more timely judicial reviews and fewer of them. It’s currently taking far too long for applications to get through the system and it’s in all our interests to make sure the planning system is resourced properly.” He noted that the Planning and Development Bill will bring more certainty and consistency to the planning process and make it more coherent and userfriendly. “We have much to do – from housing to renewable energy, to regional development – and this legislation will be a real step change. So, let’s get it done.” The new Bill also requires all JR 25

certainty for both the public and stakeholders involved in the delivery of key infrastructure. It is intended these timelines will be introduced on a phased basis, starting with those for Strategic Infrastructure Developments (including energy and transport projects). A new recruitment process will be rolled out for full-term board members, while interim temporary board members will continue to be appointed as vacancies arise. An Bord Pleanála has received Exchequer allocation of €26.9m for 2023 (an increase of €4.7m on last year’s allocation. When all approved posts are filled, over 300 people will be employed by ABP – over 50% increase in the agreed staffing levels since 2021. The total number of Board members serving in An Bord Pleanála is now 15, the maximum now provided for under the legislation.

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PLANNING LEGISLATION

applicants to have “exhausted any available appeal procedures or any other administrative remedy available in respect of the decision or act concerned”.

many reforms contained in the legislation.” The Minister is now developing a Ministerial Action Plan, in consultation with relevant stakeholder groups, to address the resourcing challenge across the planning system and the shortage in the local authority planning service, to enable it to deliver on both current statutory obligations more effectively and efficiently and those set out in the Planning and Development Bill 2023.

HOUSING SUPPLY INCREASE Tánaiste Micheál Martin said: “Housing is the single most urgent and important social issue facing our country at this time. This Bill will bring about fundamental improvements to our planning laws, meaning we can get on with the job of delivering Housing for All’s objectives and our other major infrastructure plans.” Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan added that while the Bill is both welcome and timely “It will future Byrne and Byrne has been building high quality homes for over thirty years. Based in proof our planning Bunclody, Co. Wexford, the company has gained a reputation for understanding the needs system whilst balancing key pillars of the Irish of the modern homebuyer, offering a professional, customer focused service, using best planning system such practice methods to create homes with superb finishes right down to the finest details. as public participation and access to justice, We have an extensive portfolio of developments throughout the South East. We are also environmental considerations currently developing extensive social housing with local authorities and housing agencies. and delivery of key Not limiting ourselves to residential work we also carry out many commercial contracts. infrastructure such as public transport, housing and renewable energy. This Bill can be a cornerstone to our sustainable and balanced development as a country.” Emphasising the importance of the Bill for the delivery of more homes, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien said the reforms will facilitate increased housing supply and critical infrastructure. “It is vital we embed structural changes to our planning system to help tackle the many challenges we have, and this Bill represents a major step in achieving this, along with related reforms. These include the roll out of e-Planning and a programme of resource review to underpin the

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DUBLIN HOUSING SCHEME

DUBLIN COUNCILS SET THEIR SITES ON AFFORDABLE AND SOCIAL HOUSING STOCK INCREASE Dublin’s four local authorities are calling on all home builders and housing developers to offer a range of houses and apartments with planning permission in unbuilt or partially commenced developments, under a scheme which provides for the advance purchase of turnkey residential units for social and affordable housing.

nder a new joint initiative to support the housing market in the capital, Dublin City Council, Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, South Dublin County Council and Fingal County Council are calling out to housing developers and home builders to help them activate or complete housing sites with planning permission in unbuilt or partially commenced developments. The four Dublin councils will consider turnkey residential units in completed developments, or in developments due for completion over the next four years. They will also be open to joint venture arrangements that include delivery of social and affordable homes with Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs). AnnMarie Farrelly, Fingal County Council’s Chief Executive, who chairs the Dublin Housing Delivery Group, said that priority will be given to high-quality

The social housing scheme on Sean Foster Place on North King Street in Dublin City Centre was launched towards the end of 2021. projects that can be delivered quickly and also provide value for money. “We estimate that there are over 55,000 houses and apartments on about 280 sites across the Dublin region that have planning permission but have not been started and there are more that are incomplete,” said Ms Farrelly. Under this scheme the four local authorities will purchase the homes in advance to activate or reboot the project. Once the homes are completed, they will be allocated to people on the housing list, sold as affordable homes, or made available for cost rental as part of an affordable housing scheme.

Large-scale housing development in Fingal, with new homes built at one of the council’s flagship developments in Church Fields, Mulhuddart, Dublin 15. 29

JOINT VENTURE ARRANGEMENTS The capital’s local authorities will also consider proposals to split developments

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DUBLIN HOUSING SCHEME

into phases and to take homes across multiple schemes. Following the announcement of the scheme in July, Dublin City Council’s Chief Executive Owen Keegan at the time said they were “open to sitting down with builders and developers to hear their proposals, because the aim of this scheme is to increase local authority housing stock as well as the amount of affordable homes available for sale or through cost rental”. The Chief Executive of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Frank Curran, said they want to sign contracts with developers and builders that “will allow us to get construction underway and thereby secure additional supply of social and affordable homes over the next two to three years.” Colm Ward, Chief Executive of South Dublin County Council, said: “Housing is the biggest issue for

South Dublin County Council delivered affordable housing at Kilcarbery Grange in Clondalkin.

Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown’s housing development in Ballyogan Square.

citizens in Dublin and this scheme is part of a concerted effort on behalf of Dublin's four local authorities to increase the supply of social and affordable homes by providing a high degree of certainty that will allow a builder or a developer to get onto a site to build the houses and apartments for which they already have planning permission.” Applications to each council will be assessed under certain criteria. These will include the delivery programme, with the priority on the early delivery of completed houses and apartments; suitability and need for social and affordable housing at a location; value for money; and quality of design and construction in accordance with Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage requirements.

LINK UP WITH DUBLIN’S LOCAL AUTHORITIES For further information from each of the four local authorities:

• Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council www.dlrcoco.ie/ are-you-landlord-or-developer/expressions-interest-turnkeydevelopments

• Dublin City Council www.dublincity.ie/residential/housing/ strategies-policies-and-initiatives/housing-turnkey

• South Dublin County Council www.sdcc.ie/en/services/ housing/leasing-initiatives/expressions-of-interest-housingprovision/

• Fingal County Council www.fingal.ie/council/service/callhome-builders-and-housing-developers

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NORTH-WEST INVESTMENT

€570M STIMULUS NEEDED For Northern And Western Region – NWRA The Northern and Western Regional Assembly (NWRA) claims that a stimulus package of €570m should be provided between now and the end of the current EU funding period of 2027, with calls for the delivery of high-level priorities to support balanced regional development and to reduce regional inequalities in Ireland in its Pre-Budget Submission.

he gap in disposable income per head of population between the Northern and Western Region and the Eastern and Midlands Region was 25 percentage points in 2021, compared to 10 percentage points in 2010. The region is also underperforming compared to Irish and European counterparts in areas key to developing high-valued economic growth; for example, it ranks 218th out of EU 234 regions in terms of infrastructure.

NWRA’s Pre-Budget 2024 submission outlined high-level priorities to support the delivery of balanced regional development and to reduce regional inequalities in Ireland.

A LEGACY OF UNDERINVESTMENT John Daly, NWRA’s Economist, said that a legacy of underinvestment continues to inhibit the growth ambitions of the Northern and Western Region. "Without access to modern road, public transport, health and port services, our region will never be able to provide a meaningful counterbalance to the rapid expansion of the Greater Dublin Area and avoid the overconcentration of population in the east of Ireland. “Our proposal for this €570m stimulus package would support projects and initiatives to stimulate high-value economic activity in the region. It would help to ensure our region becomes smarter in how we educate and train people, more specialised in the types of enterprise we attract and more urban in how we grow our housing stock.” NWRA Director Denis Kelly commented: “It’s important that the Government recognises the specific economic challenges faced in the region as well as the opportunity that such a stimulus package would present in terms of rebalancing development for the benefit of the whole country. Failure to do so, will see population and employment to be overly concentrated in the Greater Dublin Area, to the detriment of the rest of the country.” Cllr John Naughten, NWRA Cathaoirleach, noted that for decades the region has suffered from underinvestment in critical enabling infrastructure. “This time we cannot afford to have history repeat itself. An economic stimulus would give the region a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reverse economic malaise and give our young people hope for a better future, in this region.”

HIGH-LEVEL PRIORITIES FOR NORTH-WEST 1. Provision of stimulus package amounting to 2% of the NWR economy; to amount to €570m provided between now and the end of the current EU funding period of 2027. 2. Policy of ‘positive discrimination’ for National Development Plan, achieved by: * Prioritising the delivery of infrastructure projects in the Northern and Western Region currently identified and committed to in the NDP. * Increasing the level of capital expenditure committed to under the NDP to deliver other projects of scale for the Northern and Western Region. * Reform the public spending code in a manner that reflects the comparative disadvantage of the Northern and Western Region, having regard to legacy underinvestment and the need to address its weak urban structure. 3. Explore how greater regional autonomy can be delivered in Ireland: Budget 2024 should ensure sufficient resources are made available to examine how a process of regional decentralisation can take place, ensuring greater regional autonomy implemented in Ireland from a public policy perspective. The Oireachtas could develop a Citizens Assembly to examine how greater levels of regional autonomy could be implemented in Ireland. 33

REMCOLL MODULAR INTERNATIONAL

REMCOLL TRANSFORMS HOUSING INTO A VISION FOR TOMORROW

THE STRENGTH OF OUR TEAM At Remcoll Modular International, our team is our greatest asset. We employ skilled architects, engineers, and technicians who collectively contribute to building and delivering homes across the country. We believe in the power of Continuing Professional Development for all our staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. As staunch advocates of equality, we are an equal opportunity employer and value the abilities of our staff above all else. We are always on the look-out for individuals who share our dedication to perfection and take immense pride in their work.

t Remcoll Modular International, we build homes that resonate with quality, efficiency, and sustainability. However, we are more than just a manufacturing company; we are your partner in creating affordable, high-quality housing solutions that stand the test of time. Our commitment extends to local authorities, approved housing bodies, building firms, and the general public, ensuring that everyone has access to exceptional prefabricated modular homes tailored to their unique needs and preferences. MODERN APPROACH TO HOUSING Our approach is a fusion of innovation, quality, and efficiency. We've harnessed the power of cutting-edge manufacturing methods to produce modules that are not just functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Our homes are designed to meet and exceed regulatory standards, ensuring safety and compliance with health and safety requirements while setting new benchmarks for quality.

A VISION FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING Affordable housing is at the heart of our mission. We understand the pressing need for accessible housing solutions in today's world. Our commitment extends to creating homes that not only uphold exceptional quality but also remain financially within reach for a broad spectrum of individuals and families. We work closely with local authorities and approved housing bodies, tailoring our solutions to meet specific regional needs. Through partnerships with these organisations, we provide housing solutions that are both cost-effective and finely tuned to local requirements.

EXPERIENCE THE REMCOLL ADVANTAGE When you choose Remcoll Modular International, you're not just choosing a housing solution; you're choosing a partner that cares about your vision and future. We are here to redefine the way you perceive housing, making it more exciting, efficient, and accessible. Join us in shaping a better tomorrow, one modular home at a time.

BUILDING EXCELLENCE AND SUSTAINABILITY: Our track record is a testament to our commitment to excellence. We consistently deliver projects on time, within budget, and at the highest quality standards. However, our dedication goes beyond project completion;

OUR JOURNEY FROM LEGACY TO INNOVATION Remcoll Modular International is the result of a significant merger, where The Remcoll Group embraced the legacy of the LMC Group – a company named after its founders, Lydon and McConnell. The LMC Group has long been recognised as a prominent producer of bespoke bathroom units for residential and hotel properties across the country. OUR LEGACY IN HOUSING AND ACCOMMODATION The Remcoll Group has forged an enduring path in the housing and accommodation sectors within Ireland. Our journey has been marked by a steadfast commitment to delivering affordable housing solutions and exceptional elderly care services for various segments of the community. We have proudly risen to become one of the largest providers of Social Housing in Ireland, a testament to our dedication to societal well-being. 34

REMCOLL MODULAR INTERNATIONAL

we proactively address environmental concerns by reducing our carbon footprint and prioritizing sustainability. At Remcoll Modular International, we're not merely constructing buildings; we're forging a legacy of sustainability. Our steadfast commitment to minimizing our carbon footprint guides every decision we make. We are continuously seeking ways to enhance our environmental responsibility, from optimising our supply chain to implementing energy-efficient practices in our facilities. Our ultimate objective is to create a lasting, positive impact on both the environment and the communities we serve, ensuring a cleaner, healthier planet for future generations to enjoy. INNOVATIVE SUPPLY CHAIN EFFICIENCY: Recognising the pivotal role of an efficient supply chain management system, we've made substantial investments in state-of-the-art technology to optimise our procurement processes. This commitment ensures the highest quality standards for our most esteemed stakeholders – our customers. Our journey from legacy to innovation embodies an ongoing dedication. We allocate extensive resources to research and development, consistently positioning ourselves at the forefront of technological advancements within the construction industry. These investments drive our exploration of novel materials, groundbreaking design concepts, and cutting-edge construction techniques, all aimed at keeping our modular homes at the forefront of innovation.

YOUR ROLE IN SHAPING THE FUTURE As we look ahead, we invite you to join us in shaping a brighter future. Remcoll Modular International is not just a corporation; it is a movement towards a future where affordable, high-quality housing is accessible to all. We believe in the transformative power of collaboration and innovation within the housing industry. Together, we can construct homes that epitomise quality, efficiency and sustainability. Reach out to Remcoll Modular International and become part of crafting a world where housing isn’t merely a necessity but a source of pride and security for everyone.

EMPOWERING LOCAL COMMUNITIES At Remcoll Modular International, our mission extends beyond constructing homes; it's about fostering thriving communities. We actively engage with the regions where we operate, forging partnerships that transcend construction projects. Through community outreach initiatives, we strive to make a lasting positive impact on individuals and families. We believe in giving back to the communities that embrace our projects. Our dedication goes beyond building structures; it encompasses creating vibrant, sustainable neighbourhoods where residents can not only live but thrive.

Contact us today, and let's embark on a journey towards building a brighter future together with Remcoll Modular International.

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OU R PI L L A R S OF E XCEL L ENCE: 1. Quality Craftsmanship: At the heart of our success lies our dedicated and skilled team, paired with top-quality materials. It's this unwavering commitment to excellence that makes Remcoll Modular International stand out in the industry.

4. Hassle-Free Installation: Our pre-built units arrive fully installed with all modern conveniences. Once connected to water, waste, and power supplies, they are ready for immediate use. 5. On-Time Delivery: We understand the value of time in construction projects. Our unique production method allows us to deliver units promptly to your site.

2. Efficient Production: Our state-of-the-art assembly line system, expertly overseen by proficient technicians and supervisors, ensures both speed and precision in every unit we create.

6. Weather-Proof Construction: Our offsite manufacturing approach minimizes potential onsite delays due to weather or skill shortages, offering you a secure and dependable construction program that allows for meticulous planning.

3. Superior Design: Our units are built on a sturdy steel frame and boast 'A' rating insulation, cladding, walls, flooring, and fully equipped kitchen and bathroom facilities. They are the epitome of modern living.

SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

FIRST LOCAL AUTHORITY-LED COST RENTAL SCHEME IN IRELAND South Dublin County Council’s latest development of 133 new cost rental apartments at Belgard Square North in Tallaght town centre, which is expected to be completed and occupied in 2025, represents the State’s first standalone cost rental project by a local authority.

he sod was officially turned earlier this year on South Dublin County Council’s new social housing scheme at Belgard Square North in Tallaght Town Centre by Darragh O’Brien, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the then Mayor of South Dublin, Cllr Emma Murphy. The development will consist of three studio apartments, sixty-four one-bedroom apartments, 60-three two-bedroom apartments and three three-bedroom apartments to be delivered in three blocks, ranging from three to eight storeys together with community space and high-quality communal and public open space. The central location will be ideal for the rental market with proximity to major employment, retail and education centres in addition to transport links and amenities. These include the Work IQ Innovation Centre and the Innovation Square public plaza, both of which are also current SDCC projects. Building contractors JJ Rhatigan have been appointed by South Dublin County Council for the construction works with the development expected to be completed and occupied in 2025. The local authority-funded project is will also receive support through the Affordable Housing Fund from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage under the national ‘Housing for All’ plan. AFFORDABLE RENTED ACCOMMODATION Cost rental housing provides affordable rented accommodation to people on middle incomes who are above the threshold for social housing but may have difficulty affording private rented accommodation. The rent payable by tenants in this development will be directly linked to the cost of building, managing and maintaining the homes, discounted to at least 25% below local market rents through the Affordable Housing Fund subsidy. Speaking at the official sod turning at the site in April, Minister O’Brien had

said that cost rental was now a new form of tenure in Ireland. “It’s where rents are charged which cover the cost of delivering, managing and maintaining the homes only, so they are not driven by profits. They are safe and secure rental homes where people can set down their roots if they want to, safe in the knowledge that the State is backing them.” The Minister added that under the Government’s ‘Housing for All’ strategy at least 18,000 Cost Rental homes have been delivered across the country by Ireland’s local authorities, AHBs and the Land Development Authority. The first local authority-led Cost Rental Scheme in the State aims to provide an affordable long-term rental option to residents in South Dublin who

want to work and live in this community, noted the then South Dublin County Council’s Mayor Cllr Emma Murphy. She said that the event represented a landmark in South Dublin by showing leadership in the provision of innovative housing solutions for the local community. Ger Ronayne, Chief Executive Officer of JJ Rhatigan & Company, said: "We understand the urgency of the need for high-quality affordable housing, and we’re committed to delivering all 133 apartments by mid-2024. Our use of precast concrete and other modern methods of construction will allow us to speed up delivery, and we’re excited to see the positive impact this development will have on the community and wider area into the future.”

Pictured at the sod-turning event in April to mark the development of 133 affordable rental units at Belgard Square North in Tallaght were (l-r): Danny McLoughlin, SDCC’s Chief Executive, Minister for Housing Darragh O'Brien, Cllr Emma Murphy, Mayor of South Dublin, and Padraic Rhatigan from JJ Rhatigan. 36

SOCIAL HOUSING INVESTMENT

LIMERICK COLLABORATES ON UNIQUE SOCIAL HOUSING INVESTMENT PLAN The European Investment Bank has joined forces with Limerick City and County Council in an innovative partnership to drive investment in retrofitting to reduce energy consumption and costs in social housing, thereby having a transformative impact on local communities.

ecognising the need to address the social and economic impact of energy poverty, this collaboration between Limerick City and County Council and the European Investment Bank (EIB) aims to replicate successful investment models from across Europe to further accelerate home upgrades and make a tangible difference to the thousands of households. The new agreement was signed in Dublin by Ricardo Mourinho, EIB’s Vice President, Dr Pat Daly, Chief Executive of Limerick City and County Council, and Darragh O’Brien, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage. Welcoming the initiative, Minister O'Brien acknowledged that the European Investment Bank has been a strong advocate for high-impact housing investment in Ireland. “We applaud their commitment to supporting the construction of new homes. This new collaboration with Limerick City and County Council represents another significant milestone in our collective efforts, this time upgrading existing homes to enhance the lives of our citizens, combat climate change, and revitalise our public finances.” Expressing his enthusiasm about the collaboration, Limerick’s Chief Executive Dr Pat Daly emphasised the transformative impact it will have on local communities. “This partnership is a significant step towards creating warmer, more comfortable homes for Limerick residents. With 177,000 social homes across Ireland, we face considerable challenges in addressing energy poverty. “However, this joint effort not only tackles the social and economic dimensions but also contributes to job creation, as hundreds of employment opportunities are expected to emerge through the upgrading of existing homes.”

European Investment Bank Vice President Ricardo Mourinho pictured with Limerick City and County Council’s Chief Executive Dr Pat Daly, following the announcement in Dublin. REPLICATING THE MODEL ACROSS EUROPE EIB Vice President Ricardo Mourinho said that they are proud to embark on this strategic partnership with Limerick City and County Council to combat energy poverty and enhance the quality of life for vulnerable communities,” “By leveraging the lessons learned from successful initiatives across Ireland, we can accelerate progress in reducing energy consumption and cutting costs in social housing. This model presents an opportunity for replication across Europe, addressing climate action goals, financial constraints, and improving family well-being.” By combining resources and expertise, the EIB and Limerick City and County Council aim to bring about positive change in social housing across Ireland. The partnership's focus on energy efficiency will attempt to alleviate the burden of energy costs and contribute to broader climate action goals. This work is being delivered in close co-operation with Dublin City Council and Co-operative Housing Ireland. Furthermore, the endeavour will stimulate job growth and result in warm, comfortable homes for families in need. In recent years the EIB has provided more than €1 billion for social housing and urban regeneration investment across Ireland, including streamlined initiatives with the Housing Finance Agency, the National Development Finance Agency, local authorities and regeneration of Limerick City Centre.

EIB advisory and financing colleagues and Vice President Ricardo Mourinho pictured with Limerick Chief Executive Dr Pat Daly and Deputy Chief Executive Sean Coughlan (right). 37

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PLATFORM

‘FAIRSELECT’ PLATFORM OFFERS TRANSPARENCY To Affordable Housing Application Process

he ‘FairSelect’ property tech software platform has been developed by Irish technology company Bynaric, which aims to make tenant selection fair, unbiased and transparent, whereby users of the software can process and select tenant applications either on a randomised, lottery-style system, or on a first-come-first-served basis. The official launch of ‘FairSelect’ took place in May uniquely in the same location from where the company first started out in October 2019 – at Dogpatch Labs in Dublin’s CHQ Centre. In his keynote address, Bynaric’s Founder and CEO Aria Pour said that their property management software solution has been designed to automate and streamline the affordable housing application process, whether renting or buying.

The new FairSelect platform is aimed at local authorities and other organisations in the public sector, including affordable housing bodies, as well as private rental providers. Users of the software can process and select tenant applications based either on a randomised, lottery-style system, or on a first-come-firstserved basis, to ensure fairness and impartiality in the selection of applicants, while compliance with GDPR regulations ensures the selection process and results are fully auditable. “The Irish housing market’s growth over the next eight years has been forecasted to build 265,000 properties under the Government’s ‘Housing for All’ plan; and Fair Select will assist families and individuals to access affordable and straightforward housing,” he noted.

Aria Pour, Founder and CEO of Bynaric (centre) pictured with (l-r): Colin Champman, MC and business advisor; Johnny Horgan, MD of BidX1; Eoghan Ó’Muiris, Head of Product at Bynaric and Conn Murray, Chair of Public Sector at BDO Ireland, in Dogpatch Labs in the CHQ Centre at the official launch of ‘FairSelect’ property software platform aimed at local authorities, AHBs and private rental providers. 38

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PLATFORM

Aria Pour, Founder and CEO, Bynaric and Conn Murray, Chair of Public Sector at BDO Ireland pictured at the launch of the ‘FairSelect’ platform.

During the mid-90s he said that the allocation of housing was “ebullient” adding that with such challenges came some other realities. “Ireland’s population has majorly increased since then; our social challenges and the complexity around our planning programmes with the changes that took place in the 60s and 70s, and certainly the noughties with the introduction of the courts and their influence in terms of planning. “The quality of housing has improved enormously, and within the private and public sectors, we have seen both an increase and decrease. During the noughties we saw the private sector move forward in a huge way, and at one stage about 77,000 planning commissions were granted. From a policy perspective, it was always an acceptance that this would provide the solutions. However, when the system crashed, we had to rethink and replan our way out and we’re only now at the beginning of planning our way out of the housing problem.”

“We believe that access to safe, secure and affordable housing is the one fundamental right that everyone deserves; therefore, we aim to make the housing process more efficient and streamlined, empowering developers, management companies and state agents to serve their customers. The challenges facing the housing market are complex, yet we see this as an appropriate opportunity to create sustainable and long-lasting solutions to benefit everyone.”

� The Irish housing market’s growth over the next eight years has been forecasted to build 265,000 properties under the Government’s ‘Housing for All’ plan; and Fair Select will assist families and individuals to access affordable and straightforward housing

�

CHALLENGES AND REALITIES A panel discussion to explore the FairSelect model was moderated by business advisor Colin Chapman, and included Aria Pour along with Conn Murray, Chair of Public Sector at BDO Ireland, Johnny Horgan, MD of BidX1, and Eoghan Ó’Muiris, Head of Product for Bynaric. Conn Murray said that there have been many changes across Ireland’s housing industry over the last 30 years. The former Chief Executive of Limerick City & County Council, said that on a personal level when he bought his first house, interest rates were 21%. “Today we now refer to 5% as a major increase in interest rates! However, during the 1980s an interest rate decrease was worth so much more than a pay increase – that was the reality of life.”

Aria Pour, Bynaric’s Founder and CEO 39

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PLATFORM

HOUSING POLICY CHANGES Murray noted the pendulum has swung a little too far, adding that the growth was coupled with an increase in house prices, and pointed out that greed was taking over within the context of the construction industry.

“The change in policy came in terms of a move towards Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) as the primary deliverer as distinct from the local authorities. This has been followed by the centralisation of decision making in recent years, which has added to the challenges to deliver housing on the ground

‘FAIRSELECT’ SOLUTIONS TO TENANT SELECTION CHALLENGES • Compliance with regulations: FairSelect is designed to comply with relevant regulations and legislation, ensuring that local authorities and approved housing bodies are operating in accordance with legal requirements.

The FairSelect property tech platform provides solutions to the challenges of tenant selection, onboarding and management for landlords and property managers, including problems that may lead to issues under the Equal Status Acts 2000-2015 and GDPR. It can help to address issues by: • Improved tenant management: The system provides a centralised platform for managing tenant data, communications, and maintenance requests, allowing businesses to better track and manage their properties.

• Streamlined tenant selection process: FairSelect can simplify and automate the tenant selection process, saving businesses time and reducing errors. • Fair and unbiased tenant selection: FairSelect is designed to eliminate potential biases in the tenant selection process, ensuring that every applicant is assessed on an equal footing. This is important for the public sector, where there is a need to demonstrate fairness and transparency in decision-making.

• Tenant self-service: FairSelect's tenant self-service feature can enable tenants to manage their accounts, report issues, and pay rent online, freeing up time for property managers to focus on other aspects of their business.

• Customisation: FairSelect can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each organisation or business, ensuring a personalised and effective solution.

• Secure data management: FairSelect uses best practices to keep data safe and secure, reducing the risk of data breaches and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.

For more information visit www.FairSelect.com.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PLATFORM

itself and the diverse and disparate population now looking for a foundation. This has created different challenges within the local communities.” From a pragmatic perspective, as growth of the stock increases, Murray pointed out that a more efficient use of technology and decision making at local level is needed. “The FairSelect scheme could offer a very significant value to operational matters concerning the housing stock itself,” he noted. A SOCIAL INVESTMENT Johnny Horgan, MD of BidX1 (the digital property marketplace platform), said that one of the biggest investments a person will make will be in property. He described renting or buying property as “a whole social investment because people will be emotional since they've invested in a lot of ways”. He noted that the level of transparency brought to the market by the team at Bynaric is important for both landlords and tenants. “Unless you have dual benefits it will not be a success. Bringing transparency and confidence for tenants and occupiers means they will engage more, and for landlords it will be a simplified process. Within our private sector this transparency of the transaction will be key for the future.” With the growth in the rate of online trading and transactions across all industry sectors, Horgan said that the traditional shopfront is no longer needed to lease or sell the property. “In terms of leasing or selling property, most of the work processes had not moved forward for many years, then Daft.ie and other software property platforms came online which transformed the property market. So,

you just need to be digitally enabled and this will be first part of the property journey, particularly in the volume of transactions dealt with by both public and private sectors.” Due to the compliance risks on GDPR to be considered, and in dealing with complex communications and inefficiencies in public and private sectors, Horgan said “FairSelect provides a structured and efficient online way for tenants to apply for housing”.

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MEATH COUNTY COUNCIL

CHAIRPERSON SELECTED FOR MEATH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM Colm O’Rourke, Meath GAA Football Manager, has been appointed to chair the Meath Economic Development Forum, which was established to oversee the preparation and implementation of the new Meath Economic Development Strategy.

he Forum will see business leaders and entrepreneurs sharing their experiences to facilitate economic activity and growth in the county, to build on and increase collaboration within the county to maximise its assets, attract further investment and create additional employment and opportunities. Colm O’Rourke said that he looks forward to working in “collaboration with like-minded individuals” who will invest their energy and time in addressing key challenges and identifying new job opportunities with a view to increasing prosperity and the quality of life for all the citizens of Meath. The Economic Development Forum has been established by Meath County Council to oversee the preparation and implementation of the new strategy. Meath's Chief Executive Fiona Lawless has said that work on the next Economic Development Strategy is due to start later this year or early next year. O'Rourke's appointment by the Council’s Corporate Policy Group follows the summer launch of Meath County Council’s Economic Development Strategy Roadmap, which is set to continue the vision as identified in the current Meath Economic Development Strategy. It has identified several key focus areas and sectoral opportunities for attracting new investment, sustaining existing indigenous business and enterprise and ensuring the long-term and sustainable growth of the county. The aim is to also attract further Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) by marketing Meath to overseas and indigenous investors. ROADMAP FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Fiona Lawless was joined at the official launch of the roadmap by Meath’s Cathaoirleach Cllr Tommy Reilly, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee and Minister for Sport and Physical Education Thomas Byrne at the Council’s Head Office in

Chairperson of Meath Economic Development Forum, Colm O’Rourke, pictured with Meath County Council’s Chief Executive Fiona Lawless, and Director of Services with responsibility for Economic and Tourism Development, Des Foley. Navan at the end of June. Launching the strategy’s roadmap, Minister Helen McEntee had said that Meath Economic Development Strategy set out very clear strategic priorities to deliver on economic growth and new jobs in the coming years. “We must continue to promote Meath, locallyand internationally, support initiatives that enhance the quality of life and finally, continue to further coordinate and to focus development on connectivity, digitalisation and smart initiatives,” the Minister noted. Meath’s Cathaoirleach Cllr Reilly said that economic development will be his priority, noting that the “new innovative 42

strategy will build on the county’s successes to date”. Paying tribute to the work done to date, Fiona Lawless acknowledged the work of the elected members, the Strategic Policy Committee, the Planning and Economic Development teams, the Local Enterprise Office and Meath Enterprise staff on the implementation of the Economic Development Strategy. DUBLIN BELFAST ECONOMIC CORRIDOR Meath County Council has also been working with the other seven local authorities and agencies north and south of the border along the Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor (DBEC), since the

MEATH COUNTY COUNCIL

corridor was set up in 2021 to identify and establish opportunities linked with the DBEC Corridor and promoting this on an international level. The cross-border partnership includes the councils of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council; Belfast City Council; Dublin City Council; Fingal County Council; Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council; Louth County Council; Meath County Council; and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council. The partnership, which includes representation from Dublin City University and Ulster University, aims to develop a regional proposition for economic growth between Dublin and Belfast, with a population of two million. “One of the first aims has been to jointly support initiatives that will boost economic growth throughout the region for mutual benefit. KPMG will conduct a feasibility study on developing regional innovations hubs within the cross-border Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor area," Lawless pointed out. It was created partly in response to the uncertainty in Ireland north and south, following the UK withdrawal from the EU on 31 January 2020. “Brexit created several challenges for businesses in Meath, particularly those in the food and farming sectors. Meath needed to identify its unique circumstances and develop tailored strategies to mitigate the risks and take advantage of new opportunities,” Meath’s Chief Executive noted. UNIQUE SELLING POINTS With the rise of the digitalisation and tech industries now fuelling job creation and innovation in Ireland, added to the increasing importance of sustainability and climate action, she said that Meath remained responsive to these economic trends, ensuring it could anticipate and mitigate any potential risks and opportunities and adjust the strategy accordingly.

Pictured at the launch of Meath Economic Development Strategy Roadmap Meath’s Cathaoirleach Cllr Tommy Reilly (centre) with Minister for Sport and Physical Education Thomas Byrne TD and Meath County Council’s Chief Executive Fiona Lawless, (back row): Meath’s Director of Services Des Foley, General Manager of Finnegan’s Farm John Smith, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee TD, and Meath’s Senior Planner Padraig Maguire.

According to Meath County Council’s Chief Executive, Fiona Lawless, work on the next Meath Economic Development Strategy will commence later this year or early next year. 43

“Meath’s unique selling points are centred around the proximity to national and global markets, availability of a large amount of appropriately zoned lands across the 12 strategic employment sites identified in our County Development Plan, access to a very skilled and educated workforce, together with the good quality housing, and quality of life for inhabitants, with all the recreational, heritage and entertainment facilities.” Overall, the local economy of County Meath is influenced by a complex set of factors, including demographic changes, tourism, agriculture, technology, infrastructure investment and Brexit, she noted. “International supply chain issues and weary investors affect all counties in Ireland indiscriminately. However, Meath remains informed and well-positioned to take advantage of these drivers and to reduce any negative effects. As we look to 2030, Meath County Council remains focused on driving sustainable economic growth and development across a range of sectors.”

STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

NOVEL APPROACHES TO COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MAPPED OUT By Ainhoa González, Riki Therivel, Gloriana Vargas and Turlough King

A pilot project has examined new approaches to public engagement as part of the Dundalk Local Area Plan 2024-2030 SEA (Strategic Environmental Assessment) in Louth. It was part of a research project aimed at enhancing SEA public participation in Ireland, funded by the EPA and the Office of the Planning Regulator.

trategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) aims to not only make plans more environment-friendly, but also to increase public input into such plans, which is not always easy to do. Even when people are given an early and effective opportunity to express their opinions on a plan, as required by the SEA Directive, they may not get involved in the plan-making process until they see that a site near their house has been put forward for development. More so, only the legal minimum plan and SEA public consultation is typically delivered. In a bid to change this, a pilot of novel public engagement approaches involving neighbourhood walks and a mapping workshop took place in June as part of the Dundalk Local Area Plan 2024-2030 SEA in County Louth. It was part of a research project to enhance public participation in strategic environmental assessment in Ireland, led

by UCD and funded by the EPA and the Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR). The event was seen by Louth County Council’s planners as a key part of their plan consultation process and an opportunity for the public to have a meaningful voice in the planning process. As one planner noted: “You read about the lack of public participation in planning. I’m seeing this as a real opportunity to get early engagement with communities. It is particularly exciting to see the consultation focus on the environmental aspects of the Local Plan and see at a high-level what sort of environmental impacts people are concerned about.” ADVERTISING THE EVENT The event was advertised in newspapers, posted in public places such as library, coffee shops and via social media. A StoryMap (https://arcg.is/11rrny) supported the event dissemination.

A video outlining how the public can get involved in SEA was also developed (https://youtu.be/9nWTbZ7wdOE) and this can also be used to inform other SEA consultation processes. More than 7,000 social media views were recorded. NEIGHBOURHOOD WALKS Members of the public are invited to walk through a neighbourhood and to identify existing strengths and weaknesses: they involve a two-way discussion in open spaces and in-situ data collection. The planning team identified four areas within Dundalk which, due to their vulnerability or development potential, are essential for the plan (see Figure 1). Although these areas were selected based on how they fit in with the pre-draft plan issues paper, the SEA public participation focused on key environmental considerations.

Figure 1. Four essential areas ear-marked in the plan.

STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

COMMUNITY MAPPING The workshop on community mapping organised member of the public into small groups and brought them together to examine large-scale maps of the areas to discuss SEA themes such as climate change, water, wildlife and transport. The exercise aimed to identify potential key issues and solutions related to future development.

For each neighbourhood (Figure 1), participants were given a map of the area, including green and red stickers to mark positive and negative aspects of the areas. The project team took notes about the discussions. This provided an opportunity for informal public interaction with the planners and the SEA team, and the exchange of concerns and ideas for the future development of the town. However, despite the apparent interest in the event reflected in the social media views, the turnout was very low with only seven participants in the event.

Figure 3. Community Mapping Workshop The four participants who took part in this event on 13 June, all of whom had also been on a neighbourhood walk, were provided with a table with SEA themes identified with colours, and space for annotations and dot stickers with the same colours. They were asked to identify areas on the map where SEA themes could be impacted by the development of the plan, and to detail in the table the problems and possible solutions. Figure 4 and Table 1 give an indication of the output from the workshop participants.

Figure 2. Neighbourhood Walk

Figure 4. Location of considerations raised in the Community Mapping Workshop.

STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Table 1. Examples of observations raised in the Community Mapping Workshop

SEA Theme Climate Change

Considerations C1. Flood Risk

Observations • The town is at serious risk of flooding. There is a need to enhance and develop the Lord Limerick Embankment to help against flooding. • Good cycling and pedestrian infrastructure are needed throughout the town including cycle lanes on main streets. Dundalk is a small town, so it should be entirely pedestrian and bicycle friendly.

C2. Active Transport

• Consider informal popular cycling routes such as the one between St Malachy's Infants' School and Market Square. Wildlife, Nature, Soil and Land Cover

W1. Green Parks and greenways

• Create a park/nature reserve with pedestrian access from the existing river walk and residential areas off Castletown Road. • Create a greenway/linear park from Point Road to Cú Chulainn's Castle.

Health and Transport

HT2. Risk to pedestrian safety

PARTICIPANT FEEDBACK Despite extensive publicity, the low number of participants was disappointing. This may have been due to the time of day (4:307pm), the unusually excellent weather or, most likely, that consultation on the early stages of a local plan is too distant from people’s day-to-day concerns.

• There are very few ‘proper’, clear pedestrian crossings. There are lots of ‘hybrid’ crossings where it’s not clear who has the right of way.

SUMMARY OF LESSONS LEARNED • The planning process for such events requires time and resources.

• It is important to maintain a degree of flexibility to adapt activities according to the characteristics of the location (e.g. distance of meeting places) and the audience (e.g. people with disabilities).

However, those people who participated were enthusiastic about the event:

• Good teamwork is needed between the SEA and plan-making teams. The active and early involvement of the plan-makers and the SEA team in this pilot helped to ensure a positive approach towards public engagement and integration.

“I really liked this open approach to highlighting good and bad things about Dundalk and learning from each other.”

• Local knowledge is needed to identify the best communication strategy to reach a full range of the public.

“It was interesting to have the opportunity to look at the maps as a starting point for local area planning.”

• The combination of neighbourhood walks to encourage people think about the area, and community mapping workshop to document people’s thinking meant that the resulting comments were location-specific and of high quality.

About the Authors: Ainhoa González is Associate Professor at UCD’s School of Geography; Riki Therivel is Director of LevettTherivel Sustainability Consultants Gloriana Vargas is Research Assistant at UCD’s School of Geography, and Turlough King is a Senior Planner with Louth County Council.

This project has been funded under the EPA Research Programme 2021-2030 and co-funded by the OPR. The EPA Research Programme is a Government of Ireland

initiative funded by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications. For further information visit www.epa.ie and www.opr.ie

“This was a very good opportunity for brainstorming and developing joint solutions to improve the town. It is a shame no more people have turned up.”

The results of this pilot will be used, among other things, to develop tools that enhance Irish public participation practice, including the preparation of ‘Guidance on SEA Public Participation’.

The planning team, who was very active in advertising and running the event, also held the view that despite the low turnout, useful information nonetheless has been gained: “At the end of the day, it’s the community’s plan and it’s important that they feel they have the opportunity to say what they want. Hopefully, they’ll get the outcomes that they want, and the plan supports the overarching theme of sustainable development.”

ALL-ISLAND ENVIRONMENT

CROSS-BORDER COLLABORATION TO PROTECT AN ALL-IRELAND ENVIRONMENT

Cross-border collaboration, funding, and greater use of the Good Friday Agreement are key to protecting Ireland’s environment north and south of the border, according to a new report which has highlighted concerns around environmental governance on the island of Ireland.

he report ‘Linking the Irish Environment’ has found that divergence is likely to make it increasingly difficult for environment NGOs north and south to operate and to collaborate. It was commissioned by the Irish Environmental Network (IEN), Northern Ireland Environment Link (NIEL) and produced by Environmental Justice Network Ireland (EJNI). Aoife Ní Lochlainn, IEN’s Policy Manager, said: “We are living during a climate and biodiversity crisis, and it is important to highlight that the natural world knows no borders – the island of Ireland shares one environment.”

The report highlights three key actions to mitigate these challenges: • A joint political or legal environment commitment between the Irish and UK Governments. • Greater utilisation of the Good Friday Agreement to ensure crossborder collaboration, including the establishment of an all-island civic forum on environmental matters. • Greater funding and resources for NGOs in the environment sector north and south.

Pictured at the launch of ‘Linking the Irish Environment’ report (l-r): Aoife Ní Lochlainn (IEN), Sean Kelly (NIEL) and Ciara Brennan (EJNI). “NGOs working to protect the environment have been collaborating and working together the past number of years to ensure a collective approach in our efforts to protect the environment and implement high standards of environmental governance and protection.” Dr Ciara Brennan, EJNI’s spokesperson who led the research report, described the report as “a practical example of the all-island collaboration that needs to continue and increase to tackle shared environmental challenges, as it captures the difficulties faced by organisations working across the border in carrying out the operations. “It will serve as an important roadmap to increase co-operation across the island of Ireland. We’re calling on governments in Ireland and the UK to take action to support the vital work of environmental NGOs and civil society working together to respond to environmental degradation which impacts everyone on this island.” Sean Kelly, Interim CEO of NIEL, added: “NGOs such as the IEN and NIEL understand what needs to be done to protect our shared environment, but we need support to be able to continue to collaborate across the border.” He added that the report identified clear recommendations, including maximising the mechanisms of the Good Friday Agreement “to explore how we can cement cross-border collaboration; and involve civil society in finding solutions to our shared problems. Progress will only be made through this collaboration and a willingness to support it at all levels”.

The report is available to download at https://ien.ie/linking-the-irish-environment/

The Irish Environmental Network (IEN) as the umbrella network for national Environmental NGOs in Ireland comprises over 30 national ENGOs, working to place environmental issues centre stage in Ireland and internationally. For more information visit https://ien.ie. Northern Ireland Environment Link (NIEL) is the networking and forum body for over 70 organisations interested in Northern Ireland’s natural and built environment. NIEL members are involved in all types of environmental issues at all levels from the local community to the global environment. For more information visit https://www.nienvironmentlink.org/. Environmental Justice Network Ireland was launched in June 2019 as a platform for collaborative working between academics, representatives of civil society and environmental NGOs with the goal of addressing root causes of social and environmental justice deficits across the island of Ireland. For more information visit https://ejni.net/. 47

EUROPEAN NEWS

IRELAND’S RENEWABLES SUCCESS SETS EXAMPLE FOR OTHER EU COUNTRIES – SEÁN KELLY, MEP Ireland’s renewable energy integration success have been cited as “an example for other EU Member States” by Seán Kelly MEP, when he hosted a recent conference on ‘Powering up Europe: Unlocking Ireland's offshore wind potential to help achieve EU climate targets,’ at the European Parliament in Brussels. Alistair Phillips-Davies, CEO of SSE plc and keynote speaker, reiterated Ireland's potential as an offshore wind hub. With the right policies and infrastructure, he said that Ireland can power Europe's energy and climate goals. "Ireland has a vast renewable energy potential and significant ambition to be a global leader in offshore wind. With the right policies and infrastructure in place delivered through co-operation across the EU and the North Seas Energy Co-operation (NSEC) initiative, Ireland can become an offshore wind hub, powering Europe’s energy and climate goals," Phillips-Davies noted. Ireland South MEP Seán Kelly, who is a long-time member of the Parliament’s Energy Committee said that with Ireland’s massive success in integration of renewable energy into the grid, the country can share the solutions to challenges that some member states are yet to experience. "We still face major barriers getting projects to the generation phase. An Bord Pleanála has not approved a wind farm in over 12 months. We can write legislation and set targets all we want, but when facing such delays in the administration phase, the potential is doomed not to be realised. More resources are simply needed for planning authorities,” he said.

Pictured (l-r): Stefano Grassi, Head of Cabinet of Commissioner Simson; Ambassador Barbara Cullinane, Deputy Permanent Representative, Ireland; Sean Kelly, MEP for Ireland South; Alistair Phillips-Davies, CEO of SSE; Sonya Twohig, Secretary General ENTSO-E; Kristian Ruby, Secretary General of Eurelectric; Pierre Tardieu, Chief Policy Officer of WindEurope. Referencing the high volume of legislation coming from the European Commission this term, Kelly pointed out that a huge amount of consequential legislation has been passed, with more in the works. “Most legislation entail 2030 targets; therefore, the next Commission’s mantra should be ‘implementation before legislation’,” Ireland’s MEP noted. Kelly pointed to one notable exception: “For Ireland, there is a major opportunity in the next decade to have virtually no fossil fuels in our electricity system. Gas will not set the electricity price forever, and our market design must incorporate this fact at the right time so that renewables really can flourish and bring in a wave of cheaper electricity.”

COMMISSION SCHEME INVESTS €308M IN IRELAND’S FORESTRY SECTOR Under EU State aid rules, the European Commission has approved a €308m scheme to support the expansion of Ireland’s national forest estate on public and private lands to the end of 2027. The aim of the scheme is to deliver lasting benefits for the climate, biodiversity, wood production, economic development, employment, and quality of life. The target is to reach 18% forest cover in Ireland by the end of 2027 (compared to today’s 11.6%)

by establishing 8,000 hectares of new diverse, multi-functional and climate-resilient forests per year. Under the scheme, the aid will take the form of direct grants, covering up to 100% of the eligible costs. It will remain open until 31 December 2027 to companies of all sizes in the forestry sector. The Commission assessed the scheme under EU State aid rules, in particular Article 107(3)(c) TFEU, which allows member states to support the development of certain economic activities under certain conditions, and the 2023 Guidelines for State aid in the agricultural and forestry sectors and in rural areas. The Commission found that the scheme is necessary and appropriate to support afforestation in Ireland. It will strengthen environmental protection, including biodiversity and climate action, and contribute to achieving the EU's environmental and climate-related objectives, as well as strengthen the socioeconomic fabric of rural areas. It also found that the scheme will have an ‘incentive effect’ as the beneficiaries would not carry out the investments without public support. Furthermore, the Commission concluded that the scheme is proportionate, as it is limited to the minimum necessary, and will have a limited impact on competition and trade between EU Member States.

Companies in the forestry sector have until 31 December 2027 to apply for grant aid under the scheme, which will cover up to 100% of the eligible costs.

EUROPEAN NEWS

CORK SHORTLISTED FOR EUROPEAN RISING INNOVATIVE CITY AWARD Cork is one of six cities to be nominated for this year’s European Rising Innovative City Award, with the chance to win a €500,000 prize and be recognised for its role in creating an innovation ecosystem. The city was listed among 12 cities from 10 countries in this year’s European Capital of Innovation Awards, which is also known as iCapital. These awards aim to recognise the role certain cities play in shaping their local innovation ecosystems. Six cities are listed in the European Capital of Innovation category – Başakşehir, Istanbul, Kyiv, Lisbon, Lviv and Warsaw. Meanwhile, Cork is competing against Bruges, Leiden, Linköping, Linz and Padova in the European Rising Innovative City category. Each city will have a private hearing with a judging jury between September and October before the winner and two runners-up in each category are announced on 27 November. The winner of the European Rising Innovative City category will win €500,000, while the two runners-up will receive €50,000 each. In 2021, Dublin was selected as joint runner-up at that year’s European Capital of Innovation Awards, receiving a €100,000 prize along with Malaga, while overall winner Dortmund received €1m. Dublin was one of four finalists in that category in 2021.

For further information visit https://eic.ec.europa.eu/news Now in its ninth year the iCapital award is one of the five EIC Prizes granted under Horizon Europe, the EU’s research and innovation framework programme, with a budget of more than €95bn to fund scientific endeavours across EU member states and other countries.

EU MEMBER STATES REQUESTED TO FINALISE REVIEW OF RIVER BASIN MANAGEMENT PLANS The European Commission is calling on Ireland and seven other member states (Bulgaria, Cyprus, Spain, Malta, Portugal, Slovakia and Slovenia) to finalise the review of their river basin management plans and has given them a two-month timeframe to take the necessary measures. Both the Water Framework Directive (Directive 2000/60/ EC) (and/or the flood risk management plans) and the Floods Directive (Directive 2007/60/EC) require all EU member states to review, update and report these plans every six years. River basin management plans include a programme of measures to ensure good status of all water bodies. Flood risk

management plans are established based on maps showing the potential adverse consequences associated with flood scenarios. In February 2023, the Commission issued letters of formal notice calling on these Member States to comply with their obligations and to finalise the review of their water plans. However, the states concerned have failed to comply with their obligations under either one or both Directives. Bulgaria, Cyprus, Spain, Malta and Portugal are late in the review, adoption and reporting of the third river basin management plans and second flood risk management plans; Ireland and Slovenia are late as regards the review, adoption and reporting of the third river basin management plans; while Slovakia is late as regards the review, adoption and reporting of the second flood risk management plans. EU water legislation must be fully implemented to reach the EU's circular economy, biodiversity, zero pollution and climate change ambitions. All nine Member States now have two months to respond and to take the necessary measures. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to refer the Member States to the EU Court of Justice.

EU REGIONAL PROGRAMMES

€663M INVESTMENT IN NEW REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME

he Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-27 is co-financed through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) by the EU and the Irish Government and is managed by the Southern Regional Assembly. ERDF aims to strengthen economic, social and territorial cohesion in the EU by correcting the imbalances between its regions. This programme will invest in activities to build research, development and innovation capacity, assist homeowners in or at risk of energy poverty and contribute to the revitalisation of Ireland’s regional towns centres through sustainable urban development. The progamme area has a population of 3.8 million and covers just over half of the country. Counties Limerick, Clare, Cork, Kerry, Waterford, Carlow, Tipperary, Wexford, Kilkenny, Kildare, Meath, Wicklow, Louth, Westmeath, Laois, Offaly, Longford as well as Dublin are targeted as part of the programme area.

Over €663m will be invested in 18 counties across the Southern Region and the Eastern & Midland Region over the next seven years to help create quality jobs, transition to low carbon and to support local authorities, the higher education sector, enterprises and public bodies in delivering balanced regional development. BALANCING REGIONAL DISPARITIES Aligned with the national and regional objectives under ‘Project Ireland 2040: The National Planning Framework,’ it will assist the Government’s aim of promoting balanced regional development by supporting the implementation of the Regional Economic and Spatial Strategies in the Southern and Eastern & Midland regions of the programme’s area. The Southern Regional Assembly (SRA) will lead the roll-out of the programme as the managing authority. According to

David Kelly, SRA Director, “This programme will have a direct impact on balancing regional disparities in Ireland by targeting support at regional level for research and innovation, energy efficiency and sustainable regeneration of our regional towns.” He added that over the past half-century, Ireland’s EU membership has changed how people live, work, study and travel for the better. “This new chapter in the story of ERDF in Ireland will continue to improve our way of life in the Irish regions by addressing key regional challenges,” Kelly noted.

Pictured at the launch of the regional development programme in Kilkenny Castle on 25 April were (l-r): SRA’s Cathaoirleach Cllr Oliver Walsh (2022-2023) and Director David Kelly with Miia Jouppi, European Commission’s Programme Manager of Regional Policy, and Andrew Condon, Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform. 50

EU REGIONAL PROGRAMMES

STRATEGIC PRIORITY AREAS The Programme will target its funding supports through three strategic priority areas: • Priority 1 – The creation of smarter and more competitive regions by enhancing research and innovation capacity and supporting regional enterprise has a total budget of €337m. Six of the country’s universities and two Institutes of Technology are in the targeted programme area, (home to four newly established technological universities). Investing in collaborative research and innovation activities will build capacity within and between the institutions and support the regional innovation ecosystem and knowledge economy. These schemes will be rolled out by the programme’s delivery partners, which include Science Foundation Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and the Higher Education Authority. • Priority 2 – The creation of low carbon, energy efficient regions has a budget of €199m, which will be achieved by supporting investments to improve energy efficiency of residential homes, targeting homeowners in or at risk of energy poverty. Responding to energy challenges, the programme will fund deep retrofitting to ease the burden of homeowners at risk of experiencing energy poverty, reducing the amount they spend on energy consumption and reducing their carbon emissions. These deep retrofits will be delivered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). • Priority 3 – Sustainable & Integrated Urban Development involves taking an integrated strategic approach to the regeneration of Ireland’s towns using a Town Centres First Framework. Funding calls will be managed by the Southern Regional Assembly in partnership with local authorities responsible for implementing the Town Centres First policy in selected towns in the programme area.

“This new chapter in the story of ERDF in Ireland will continue to improve our way of life in the Irish regions by addressing key regional challenges,” noted David Kelly, SRA Director. Aligning closely with the objectives of the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies for the Southern Region and Eastern & Midland Region, the programme will support regeneration of regional town centres as the heart of local communities to live, work and visit. A budget of €90m has been set aside for this work which will be rolled out by the Southern Regional Miia Jouppi, European Commission’s Programme Assembly (SRA) through Manager of Regional Policy. the local authorities in the programme area. many opportunities and challenges that can Jim Conway, Director of the Eastern be addressed together.” and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA), He added that the programme will said that both regions in this programme area have strong opportunities and diverse support targeted investments which will challenges. “While they both have a strong make a real difference to quality jobs and inclusive growth by breathing new life into urban feature, they also each have a rural Ireland’s regional towns and villages. and smaller regional focus and we have

For further information on the list of programmes visit www.southernassembly.ie/euprogrammes 51

ZERO CARBON INFRASTRUCTURE

CORK CITY COUNCIL JOINS EU ZERO CARBON INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT The new Zero Carbon Infrastructure project has set an ambitious goal to support eight cities and regions across Europe in their efforts to develop green transport and zero-carbon infrastructure for their territories. Cork City Council is part of this EU consortium in this four-year project in a bid to reach the carbon neutral targets by 2030.

he European Environmental Agency (EEA) estimates that road traffic constitutes the highest proportion of overall transport emissions. Through the European Green Deal, the EU has now set ambitious targets to decarbonise transport. In 2019, the transport sector emitted 72% of all domestic and international transport Green House Gases (GHGs), with 23% of the EU’s transport GHG emissions coming from urban areas. In Cork City, petrol and diesel vehicles are responsible for 29% of GHG emissions. The Zero Carbon Infrastructure (ZCI) project has been rolled out in a bid to help reach the targets for reducing these emissions. Financed by the Interreg Europe programme, this project has set an ambitious goal to support eight cities and regions in Ireland, Sweden, Finland, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Spain Belgium and Italy in their efforts to develop green transport and zero-carbon infrastructure for their territories. PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS To achieve that goal, the consortium will co-operate, identify and test practical solutions to overcome the challenges they face. Led by the County Administrative Board of Kronoberg (Sweden) and with support from the Erasmus Centre for Urban, Port and Transport Economics in the Netherlands, Cork City Council and its partners will explore solutions for: • Private electric vehicle charging infrastructure. • Sustainable urban logistics. • The business model of sustainable urban mobility – incentives that build customer demand for decarbonised transport solutions. • Transition to zero-carbon mobility – public acceptance and communication.

The European Environmental Agency estimates that road traffic constitutes the highest proportion of overall transport emissions of greenhouse gases. THE CONSORTIUM CONSISTS OF THE FOLLOWING PARTNERS:

1. County Administrative Board of Kronoberg, Sweden (lead partner) 2. Kainuu Regional Council, Finland 3. Business Support Centre Ltd, Kranj, Slovenia 4. Burgas Municipality, Bulgaria 5. Navarra Government – General Directorate on Industry, Energy and Strategic Projects, Spain 6. Cork City Council, Ireland 7. City of Mechelen, Belgium 8. City of Parma, Italy

The ZCI project has a total budget of €2,085,629, with €1,650,049 provided by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Through the European Green Deal, the EU has set ambitious targets to decarbonise transport. For further information visit www.consilium.europa.eu/en/policies/green-deal/

For project details, activities and expected results visit https://interregeurope.eu/zci 52

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