GALWAY COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2022 2028 - ISSUES PAPER - GALWAY COUNTY COUNCIL
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Galway County Issues Development Plan 2022~2028 Paper
Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
Contents
Contents
Preamble.................................................................................................................1
Making a Submission........................................................................................3
What is a County Development Plan?......................................................5
Context of the Plan............................................................................................7
Core Strategy and Housing............................................................................9
Urban Living and Placemaking.....................................................................12
Rural Place Making and the Countryside................................................14
Economic, Enterprise, Tourism and Retail Development................16
Infrastructure and Transport..........................................................................19
Environment, Renewable Energies and Communications.............21
Architectural and Archaeological Heritage.............................................23
Social, Community and Cultural Development....................................25
The Galway Gaeltacht......................................................................................27
Natural Heritage, Landscape and Green Infrastructure....................29
Agriculture, Fishing Marine and Forestry.................................................31
ii iii
Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
Preamble
new development and further growth with the need to protect both the
concerns of residents and communities while preserving the distinctive
heritage and environment of the towns and rural areas of County Galway.
The Development Plan making process includes periods of consultation
where participation from members of the public is invited and welcomed.
The County Development Plan will be adopted following full consideration
by the Elected Members of the Council.
The publication of this Issues Paper is the first step in the making of the
new County Development Plan. This consultation document presents an
overview of the main planning and development issues in Galway and seeks
to encourage public debate on what broad issues should be considered in
the new County Development Plan.
The issues highlighted in this Issues Paper and subsequent short videos are
relevant, but they are by no means exhaustive. It is vitally important that
Preamble as many individuals and groups are involved in this process as possible
so that the final County Development Plan reflects public concerns and
aspirations whilst having regard to national and regional policies and
Galway County Council commences the preparation of the 2022-2028 County
guidelines. Everybody is entitled to give an opinion on any aspect of the
Development Plan on the 18th June 2020. This Plan-making process must
County Development Plan. At this stage we are particularly interested in
be completed within two years by May 2022. The Regional Spatial Economic
encouraging submissions on strategic and ‘big picture’ issues.
Strategy (RSES) came into effect on the 24th of January 2020. A series of
short videos have been prepared and will be published on social media and More detailed issues such as requests for the zoning of land should be left
on our website to stimulate public participation in this process while adhering to the Draft County Development Plan consultation phase or be dealt with
to social distancing. The consultation period of the Issues Paper will run during the preparation of the Local Area Plans which cover a number of
for an extended period of 12 weeks rather than the statutory 8 weeks. The towns in the County.
consultation dates for this Issues Paper are 18th June 2020 – 10th September
We look forward to hearing from you.
2020 (inclusive). Please review these short videos and Issues Paper at:
www.galway.ie/cdpreview
The review and preparation of the Galway County Development Plan
is one of the most important functions of the Council. The new County
Development Plan will set out the strategy for the future planning and
sustainable development of County Galway up to 2028 and beyond. The Kevin Kelly (Interim Chief Executive)
County Development Plan review has come at a time of change globally,
nationally and locally.
The needs of Galway’s population must be considered in this review
process by creating sustainable communities through housing delivery, job
creation, enterprise promotion, tourism support, provision of services and
community facilities within the context of a healthy well planned natural
1 and built environment. The Council seeks to balance the need to facilitate
2
Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
When making a It is necessary for the Council to collect some
Making a Submission
personal information in order to process your
submission please note: submission. Legally we can process this
In accordance with Section 19 of the Planning information in the exercise of official authority
and Development (Amendment) Act, 2018 all vested in the Council. The protection of your
valid submissions received by the Council shall personal data is a key priority for the Council
be published on the Galway County Council and your data will be processed in line with
website within 10 working days of its receipt our Privacy Policy which is available at www.
Making a Submission by the Council. The planning process is an
open and public process and therefore your
galway.ie or in hard copy from our offices
at Galway County Council, Áras an Chontae,
submission (in part or in total) will be available Prospect Hill, Galway.
to view online at www.galway.ie
Please include your name, address, email, The staff from the Forward Planning Policy Should you have any questions about our
contact number and where applicable, details Unit will be available to take your call if you Galway County Council is subject to the privacy policy or the information we hold
of the organisation or group you represent. have queries on the process and on the making requirements of the Freedom of Information about you please contact us by email at
Further information on this process and a submission, call 091 509382, 091 509311, 091 Act, 2014; the Data Protection Act, 2018 and forwardplanning@galwaycoco.ie or write to
updates are available on www.galway.ie/ 509533 or 091 509121 to talk to us directly. the General Data Protection Regulations us at Data Protection Officer, Galway County
cdpreview. There is an online form available (GDPR). Council, Áras an Chontae, Prospect Hill,
In addition staff will be available to meet
for you to complete with your viewpoints. See Galway.
Wednesday afternoons by appointment only Please be aware that in order to process
link below:
for pre-arranged meetings in County Hall, submissions that may contain GDPR Special
www.galway.ie/cdpreviewsubmissions
which will last up to 15 minutes in duration. Categories of Data/Sensitive Personal Data
This form will be sent directly to us and will be Call 091 509121 to schedule a meeting. as defined by Article 9 of the GDPR, explicit
taken as your submission/observation. consent to the processing of the special
Submissions/observations can only be
categories of data must be provided by the
If you would prefer to send your viewpoints made between 18th June 2020 and the 10th
person to whom the data refers.
via email, see link below: September 2020.
forwardplanning@galwaycoco.ie
The deadline for receipt of all submissions is
Please note that requests or proposals for 4PM on Thursday the 10th September 2020.
the zoning of particular land for any purpose
PLEASE NOTE THAT SUBMISSIONS
cannot be considered at this stage of the
RECEIVED AFTER THIS DATE CANNOT BE
process.
ACCEPTED.
Where do I send my Submission/Observation?
You may submit your submission/observation by one of the following methods:
In writing to: Administrative Officer, CDP Review, Forward Planning Policy Unit,
Áras an Chontae, Prospect Hill, Galway.
Or
Email: forwardplanning@galwaycoco.ie
VIEW TO
K
CLIC
Or
Online form: www.galway.ie/cdpreviewsubmissions
VIEW TO
K
CLIC
Please send your submission/observation through one medium only, either electronically or hard
3 4
copy.
Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
What is a County
What is a County Development Plan?
Development Plan?
The County Development Plan sets out the new Development Plan 2022 - 2028. Every 6
overall strategy for the proper planning and years a Planning Authority is legally obliged to
sustainable development of the County over make a new County Development Plan under
a six-year period, within the context of the the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as
national and regional framework of strategies amended). This Plan will set out the strategic
and guidelines. Galway County Council is now spatial vision and future direction for the
commencing the process of preparing the County from 2022 - 2028.
Stages of a Development Plan Issues Paper
There are various stages involved in the preparation of a The Issues Paper is
Development Plan. This current stage is considered to be AFTER ALL, intended to encourage
Stage 1 ‘Pre-Draft’ and includes for the preparation of an dialogue on the key
Issues Paper. During this and the subsequent stages, as
IT’S YOUR topics important to the
County of Galway, as well
outlined below, the Planning Authority will consult with the PLAN as promote and support
public to encourage and facilitate public participation in the
your involvement at this
preparation of the new Development Plan. early stage.
Stage Stage Stage
1 2 3
AFTER ALL, IT’S YOUR PLAN
With your active help and guidance, the new
Galway County Development Plan can create
a more attractive, inclusive, competitive and
Pre-Draft
ublic Consultation
P
Draft Development
Plan
Amendments to Draft
ublic Consultation
P
sustainable County.
The new Plan should reflect the needs and
Play
(Issues Paper)
hief Executive’s Report
C
on Consultation
ublic Consultation Draft
P
Plan
hief Executive’s Report
C
(Amendments)
hief Executive’s Report
C
on Submissions
ambitions of all communities in the County
of Galway, so it is essential that you have
your say right from the start. Galway County
Your
irection from Elected
D
Members
reparation of Draft
P
on Submissions
onsideration of Chief
C
Executive’s Report by
onsideration of Chief
C
Executives Report by
Elected Members
Council welcomes the views of individuals
or groups on the content of the new County
Development Plan. We really want to know
Part
Development Plan Elected Members doption of New
A
Development Plan what you think the main issues facing the
aterial Amendments
M
5 County of Galway in the future. 6
being Prepared
Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
Key Challenges We Face!
Context of the Plan
Context of the Plan
eveloping a unique identity and building
D roviding sufficient physical and social
P
on the strengths of the County. infrastructure to support economic
National and Regional North-West came into effect on 24th January
rowing the metropolitan area and other
G
development and to enhance our quality of
2020 and includes a Metropolitan boundary life.
Policy encompassing Oranmore, An Bearna and Baile
settlements within the County to achieve
Compact Growth. romoting town and village centre
P
The Government have published Project Chláir. It is envisaged that these areas as key vibrancy and vitality with multi-functional
iving in the future and how it will be
L
Ireland 2040 (National Planning Framework uses including entertaining, living,
economic drivers within Metropolitan Galway different.
gathering, working, shopping etc.
and National Development Plan 2018 – 2027). will accommodate significant population educing our carbon footprint and
R
uilding on the provision of high-quality
B
Galway now forms part of the North West increases and jobs within the lifetime of this achieving the national target of zero
employment and economic opportunities
Regional Assembly. The Regional Spatial emissions by 2050.
new Galway County Development Plan 2022 at appropriate and sustainable locations.
and Economic Strategy (RSES) for the – 2028. iving sustainably without compromising
L
elivering a balance between social and
D
future generations.
private housing.
ccommodating the needs of an ageing
A
population.
EU, National National Planning Local
Legislation Framework Authority
Policy (NPF)
balance
Local Economy between social
EU Directives Community Plan & private
(LECP) housing provision of
Developing high-quality
Regional, Spacial & a unique employment
Planning Economic Strategy Identity & economic
Legislation Housing Strategy opportunities
(RSES)
Ministerial
Guidelines Capital Programme Growing the Promoting town
metropolitan & village centre
area & other
Government
settlements Key vibrancy &
vitality
Policy County
Development Challenges
Climate Change
Capital
Plans
we face!
infrastructure
Programmes Local Area Plans to support
Living in
economic
the future
development &
to enhance our
quality of life
The diagram above illustrates the position of the Development Plan in the Irish Planning system
hierarchy. This Issues Paper is the first step in the preparation of the new Development Plan. The Reducing
ageing
County Development Plan must be consistent with national and regional policies and guidelines our carbon
population
footprint
and objectives.
Living
sustainably
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Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
How and where we plan to meet our housing
Core Strategy and Housing
Core Strategy and Housing
Galway County Galway County Galway County
targets must be set out in the Plan’s Core Population Population Population
Strategy and Housing Strategy. We need to
153,025 175,085 179,390
ensure sufficient housing is available in the
+ 12.6% + 2.4%
The Planning and Development Act 2000 the provision of appropriate infrastructure in right places, with good infrastructure, services
(as amended) introduced the requirement areas identified for growth. The Core Strategy and amenities, if we are to improve the quality
for an evidence based ‘Core Strategy’ to will respond to, and be consistent with other of life for our citizens. We must also provide
be included in County Development Plans. policy documents, guidelines and plans such for the right type and mix of housing to reflect
The Core Strategy of the Galway County as Project Ireland 2040, the Regional Spatial the different requirements of all of our citizens
Development Plan will aim to identify where and Economic Strategy (RSES) and the which can change at the different stages of
future residential development should be Water Framework Directive for example. The their lives. Galway has a diverse housing stock
prioritised and reserve an appropriate amount ‘Settlement Hierarchy’ will form part of the located in a wide variety of areas, both urban Census Census Census
of land in those locations to meet housing and
population targets. The Plan will support this
Core Strategy of the Development Plan, which
will provide a framework for the development
and rural. The towns, villages and rural areas
have their own character which influences
2006 2011 2016
Core Strategy through a range of services and of the settlements in the County. where people choose to live. Providing
an appropriate scale and type of housing
development which respects and enhances Key Questions
the character of our urban and rural areas will ow best can the County
H
Development Plan cater for the
179,390
be a key challenge.
*Galway projected population growth in the
Metropolitan Area
Galway County had a total population of County over the lifetime of the plan?
(Bearna/Oranmore
Galway County Garraun/Ardaun) 179,390 in 2016, 2.4% higher than at the last here should the increase in
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had a total Hub Town Census (2011). Galway County’s population population within the County be
population of TUAM directed?
County Town
was 12.6% higher than a decade earlier (2006),
179,390 evelopment land is a limited
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BALLINASLOE a greater increase than occurred nationally
in 2016 valuable resource. How best do
**Key Towns /Other Towns (12.3%). The National Planning Framework we maximise the development
Loughrea, **Oranmore, Athenry, Gort, (NPF) and the Regional Spatial and Economic of appropriate land to create
Clifden, Portumna, Maigh Cuilinn sustainable communities?
Strategy (RSES) for the North-West sets
***Other Villages target populations for Galway County. The ow can Council policy protect
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Baile Chláir, Oughterard, Headford, Mountbellew, Ballygar, An
Cheathrú Rua, Dunmore, Glenamaddy, Craughwell, Kinvara, areas within the County currently
Corofin, Moylough, Clarinbridge, An Spidéal, Ardrahan, new County Development Plan will be in under severe pressure for one-off
Kilcolgan,An Tulaigh/Baile na hAbhann, Cor an Dola,
Woodlawn, Kilconnell,New Inn,Ballymacward.
accordance with the NPF and RSES. dwellings?
here in the County should
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population growth be directed to
Other Selements & Rural Area achieve balanced growth as per the
RSES?
Briarhill, An Carn Mór, Lackagh, Turloughmore, Abbeyknockmoy, Cluain Bú,
Is there a deficit in the provision of
Eanach Dhúin, Ahascragh, Aymon, Monivea, Eyrecourt, Banagher, Aughrim, Caltra, Clonfert,
a particular type of housing that
Kiltormer, Menlough, Lawrencetown, Fohenagh, Killoran,Castleblakeney, Ballinamore Bridge,
should be addressed eg. apartment,
Gorteen, Cappataggle, Willimastown, Kilkerrin, Barnaderg, Belclare, Kilbennan,
duplex etc?
Briarfield, Newbridge, Ballymoe, Milltown, Kilconly, Caherlistrane, Brownsgrove, Sylane, Lavally, Foxhall, Newbridge,
Cashla, Kiltevna, Glinsk, Ballyglunin, Laragh More, Woodford, Killimor, Ballymana, Esker, Carrabane, Kiltullagh, hat contributes to an attractive
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Derrydonnell Beg, Ballinderreen, Kilchreest, Ballinakill, Moyglass, Peterswell, Killeenadeema, Drim, Kilconieran, Labane,
Where in the residential environment?
Tynagh, Kilreekil, Abbey, Bullaun, Castledaly, Coose, Newcastle, Cooloo, Shanaglish, Na Forbacha, An Cnoc, Na Minna, Development
County should ow can the plan best address
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Ros an Mhíl, Rosscahill, Tulaigh Mhic Aodháin, Leir Móir, Cill Chiaráin, Cill Rónáin, Roundstone, Carna, Tully/Renvyle, land is a limited increased residential densities?
Glinsk, Leir Mealláin, Béal an Daingin, Tullycross, Rosmuc, An Fhairche, Leenane, Cleggan, Leerfrack, Casla, Corr na Móna, population
valuable
Ballyconneely , Sraith Salach, Claddaghduff, An Mám, Maam Cross, An Aird Mhóir, Maree, Kilbeacanty, Cloghanover, Camas. growth be ow should social housing be
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resource
directed? delivered and do we have the right
balance between social and private
9 housing? 10
Galway CDP 2015~2021
Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
Urban Living and Placemaking
Urban Living and Placemaking
The National Planning Framework (NPF) states Small Growth Towns and the villages
that provision will be made for a Metropolitan collectively support the sustainable economic
Area Strategic Plan (MASP) that will focus and social development of the county. They
on delivery of population and economic act as local development and service centres
development. Within County Galway; facilitating development commensurate with
Oranmore, Baile Chláir and Bearna now form the nature and extent of the existing settlement
part of the (MASP) area. The metropolitan and availability of public services and facilities.
area straddles the boundary with Galway City Other villages and towns in County Galway will
Council which will require close collaboration be addressed in the main body of the County
in delivering housing and jobs within the Development Plan with appropriately focused
metropolitan area. policies and objectives
Development on brownfield and greenfield sites The current Galway County Development
closely integrated with public transport and Plan 2015-2021 contains thirteen chapters
other key infrastructure will be a priority. The and has through variation’s integrated the
quality of the urban places in County Galway Galway Transport Strategy and the Bearna
listed above will be imperative in delivering and Gaeltacht plans. It is now envisaged that
economic growth and regional development. certain Local Area Plans (Populations less
The Plan must ensure that there is a range of than 5,000 persons) and settlement plans that
quality places where people will choose to live, had previous plans in situ will be incorporated
work and invest. into the new Plan. These areas are county
wide and have the necessary infrastructure
The Key towns of Ballinasloe and Tuam play
to accommodate the growth as per the Core
an important role in particular to the East and
Strategy.
North East of the county in the delivery of key
commercial, retail and higher order important
services such as Portiuncula University Hospital
which serves a regional population. A strategic Key Questions
aim in this new County Development Plan will ow can the plan support the delivery of
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be that these Key Towns develop as attractive, a robust (MASP)?
liveable, vibrant, and well-designed locations ow can we make our urban places more
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that ensure a high quality of life, which will attractive for people to live and work?
promote a sense of place and personal well- hat parts of the urban places
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(Metropolitan areas, Town and villages)
being. Other towns such as Loughrea, Athenry
are most suitable in your view for people
and Gort are key service centres and drivers of to live and work?
growth for their immediate and surrounding ow can we make our urban places
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areas, each having a high degree of self- (Metropolitan areas, Towns and villages)
sufficiency. more attractive and connected for
pedestrians and cyclists?
hould we facilitate a better mix of
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employment and housing in our urban
11 places? 12
Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
Rural Place Making
Rural Place Making and the Countryside
and the Countryside
It is anticipated that the remaining population The County Development Plan will try to
targets will be directed towards small balance the need to accommodate rural
settlements and the rural areas. There are generated residential development for a
numerous small settlements, which are growing population, support communities
predominately rural in nature and have limited and increased rural based commercial
capacity to service the local community activities against the equally important need
through their existing facilities such as post to protect its countryside from excessive and
office, schools, small retail outlets and public inappropriate development.
houses.
Key Questions
ow should the countryside be
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protect the enhanced through better design?
countryside ow can the County Development Plan
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promote improvement in the quality of
from excessive the built environment in rural areas?
& inappropriate ow can the County Development Plan
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ensure that development is appropriate
development to its location?
ow can rural housing be designed to a
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high standard?
How can the new County Development
Plan support development within the
smaller settlements that do not have
zoning plans?
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Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
Economic, Enterprise, Tourism and Retail Development
Economic, Enterprise, Tourism
and Retail Development
65% of Galway farms
are involved in beef
65 % production
Galway has a strong and diverse economic The agri-food sector has become a very
base which is characterised by high levels of important industry in Galway, which accounts
investment in areas such as Medical Devices, for almost 36% of the national agricultural
IT, agriculture, tourism and culinary, retail, arts output. The agri-food sector includes primary
and craft. production (agriculture or farming), forestry,
fishing, food, drink and wood-processing.
The Medical Devices and ICT Industries are
Galway has the highest number of farms in the
a significant contributor to employment
West of Ireland with an average farm size of
and economic activity in Galway. According
25.8 hectares. 65% of these farms are involved
to the 2016 census, the Industry sector is
in beef production, with limited dairy farming
significantly more important to employment
activity taking place.
in Galway County than nationally, 16.3% of
all employment compared with 11.4%; the The West of Ireland, and in particular County
fourth highest share working in Industry of all Galway, is one of the most unique parts of
15 16
counties. Ireland. Galway is the regional capital for theGalway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
North-West Region and has a very successful
The agri-food
Economic, Enterprise, Tourism and Retail Development
brand domestically. The Wild Atlantic Way
has been a successful tourism initiative for
the counties along the Atlantic seaboard. The sector in Galway,
Wild Atlantic Way stretches almost 2,500km
from Donegal to Cork, and includes almost accounts for
700km of Galway’s coastline. This tourism
initiative has been very effective in marketing almost 36% of
the national
and promoting tourism, in particular Galway
City, Conamara, including Oileáin Árann
agricultural
and Inishbofin, resulting in tourist numbers
increasing annually.
output
36 %
The retail
national
agricultural environment is
output changing with Key Questions
significant hat are County Galway’s strengths and
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migration to weaknesses regarding future enterprise
and employment growth?
online sales
ow can the County Plan support
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inward investment and job creation
in the County and where should it be
directed?
A key tourism infrastructural requirement The retail environment is changing and ow can the Plan best support new and
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for the county would be the delivery of the significant migration to online sales is posing evolving work patterns which reduce the
demand to travel to work, including e
Dublin to Clifden Cycleway. The Conamara significant challenges to all High Streets. business and home-based activity?
Greenway - a section of the cycleway between This change in the retail environment, in
hat areas of the County have the
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Ballinasloe and Clifden, spans approximately combination with the limited opportunities potential to become sustainable key
84 kilometres. This greenway will for the most for modern ‘living over the shop’ type housing tourism attractions?
part utilise the former Clifden to Galway rail may be at the heart of increases in dereliction hat areas within Galway have
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line which closed in 1935. A 6km section of the and reductions in footfall in many towns the potential to form part of the
development of a comprehensive tourist
greenway from Athry to Cloonbeg opened in throughout Ireland. As such it is important trail within the County?
2018. It runs close to the route of Ballynahinch to develop quality retail and commercial
hat policies should be introduced to
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Castle and Ballinafad graveyard, north of environments that will improve the vibrancy further support town centre retailing
Cloch na Rón. To the east of the county there and enhance traditional on street experiences and commercial activities that enhance
the vitality and vibrancy of our town and
is untapped potential for the development in all our towns.
village centres?
of the Lakelands brand, which comprises of
ow can the Plan policies help integrate
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Lough Derg and an interconnected lake system enterprise land uses with other uses
on the Shannon and the Hidden Heartlands such as residential, transportation and
17 tourism, etc? 18
tourism brands.Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
Key Questions ow can the plan best promote walking,
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Infrastructure and Transport
Infrastructure and Transport
cycling and the use of public transport?
ow can the plan support agencies in the
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provision of Water and Wastewater? ow can rural transport and accessibility
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be improved?
re there significant factors leading to
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deterioration in the quality of groundwater ow can the concept of “Smarter Travel”
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or rivers and how can these be addressed? be incorporated into the plan to reduce
dependence on the private car?
hat towns and villages should be
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prioritised for water/wastewater hould parking standards for new
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improvements? developments reflect the need to reduce
car dependency?
ow can the County Development
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Plan make sure that there is a better ow can the safety of vulnerable road
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co-ordination between land use and users (cyclists/ pedestrians) be improved?
transportation facilities in order to achieve
more sustainable development?
The new
N6 Galway
City Ring Road
(N6 GCRR) is
The provision and maintenance of high-quality within and through the County. The provision currently at
service infrastructure is vital to attracting of transportation infrastructure including planning stage
and retaining economic development and road and rail together with public transport
improving the quality of life in the County. projects must be integrated with a sustainable
Population growth will be identified in areas settlement strategy.
with public services and facilities. Close
The provision of road and rail infrastructure
collaboration with Irish Water in relation to
has improved greatly in recent years. The
the investment and upkeep of these facilities
main transportation corridors from the South
will be a key aim contained within the new
to the North and the West to the East of the
Development Plan.
country pass through Galway and includes
The Regional Spatial Economic Strategy the M6 and M17/M18. The new N6 Galway City
(RSES) lists a number of infrastructural Ring Road (N6 GCRR) is currently at planning
projects in the county, which Galway County stage, when constructed will enhance the
Council are fully supportive i.e the progression accessibility to Galway city and surrounding
and development of the East Galway Drainage areas.
Scheme. Investment in new or additional
The railway infrastructure with the Galway-
capacity in water services will be informed
Dublin and Galway-Limerick line provides
by national, regional and local planning policy
improved links to the east and the south from
and addressed through Irish Water’s Capital
Galway. Increased train frequency, especially
Investment Plans.
on the Galway to Athenry trainline will require
County Galway has undergone significant dualling of the tracks as identified as a growth
growth over the last 30 years which has enabler in the National Planning Framework.
19 resulted in a major increase in travel demand 20Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
The existing Wind Energy Strategy for
Environment, Renewable
Environment, Renewable Energies and Communications
County Galway will be replaced with a
2050
new Local Authority Renewable Energy
Energies and Communications Strategy (LARES) as part of this County
Plan process. LARES will form an appendix
of the County Plan providing details on the
The County Development Plan must ensure on the climate change actions as per the CAP. various renewable energy options available
greenhouse gas
that a balance is achieved between land This can be achieved by examining how best in County Galway and it will identify the emissions net zero
use and development and the protection to provide for sustainable living across the most suitable locations for renewable energy target by 2050
of our environment. It is critical that the County. This may be achieved by supporting across the County. Guidance and options for
natural environment is protected and adverse large populations with sustainable transport incorporating renewable energy systems into
impact on climate change is minimised. services which would reduce the level of existing and new residential development will
The County Development Plan will be subject carbon emissions through reduction of private be included in the LARES.
to Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) car usage.
and Appropriate Assessment (AA) to consider The Council recognises the importance of
Comprehensive consideration of flood risk is Key Questions
its potential effects on the natural environment the telecommunication sector, including
now a key requirement in the preparation of hat are the main environmental issues
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and on EU protected sites (Natura 2000 its availability, price and quality and
that currently face Galway?
development plans and determining planning acknowledges its role in attracting inward
sites) and their networks. A Strategic Flood hat additional measures should be
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applications. The ‘Planning System and Flood investment. Antennae and support structures
Risk Assessment (SFRA) will also be carried taken to protect the environment?
Risk Management Guidelines’ emphasise the are necessary to facilitate a high-quality
out. ow can the County Development Plan
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importance of identifying areas at risk of communications network. However, their address matters such as adaptation to
The Government’s Climate Action Plan flooding and protecting these areas either by location is an important planning consideration. climate change?
2019 (CAP) recognises that the impact of preventing further development or mitigating The Council will continue to work closely with hat methods should the Council
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greenhouse gas emissions has accelerated against the effects of possible flood events. encourage to maximise renewable
the Department of Communications, Climate
in recent years. Ireland is supporting the Strategic flood risk assessments will be energy provision, both for developments
Action and Environment to implement and individual homes?
ambition that is emerging within the European carried out as part of the preparation of the the National Broadband Plan in Galway. here should wind turbines be
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Union to achieve a net zero target by 2050. new County Development Plan. It recognises that high speed broadband encouraged / discouraged?
County Galway must play its part in delivering is essential as an economic facilitator in a hat should the Council be doing to
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knowledge-based economy. promote bio-energy production from
waste streams, agri-food effluents,
manures, municipal solid waste, sewage
sludge and purpose grown energy
crops?
ow can the plan support the provision
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of telecommunications & broadband
providers?
21 22Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
Architectural and
Architectural and Archaeological Heritage
Archaeological Heritage
County Galway has a rich and diverse array significance of the building in question is not As with Protected Structures, ACA’s are
Key Questions
of historic buildings. Many of these have compromised. Therefore, a balance must assessed and reviewed as part of the County
Is the existing level of protection for
been protected in legislation by virtue of be struck between adequately preserving Plan review process. The Plan must create
Galway’s Protected Structures, ACAs
their inclusion onto the Record of Protected the character and appearance of the historic policies and objectives that will preserve our and archaeology adequate? How can it
Structures (RPS). At present there are in buildings and facilitating modern living, historic towns and villages while ensuring that be improved?
excess of 1,500 buildings on the RPS. Its which includes retrofitting energy efficiency they are an attractive and competitive place in ow can the new County Development
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review and maintenance forms part of measures in old buildings, such as adding which we live, work and visit. Plan promote awareness of the
County’s past which includes Protected
this statutory development plan review solar panels or updating windows. Structures, ACA’s and archaeology?
Archaeological Heritage includes physical
process. The protection and preservation
Architectural Conservation Areas (ACA’s) remnants that remain in place and form part of ow can the new County Plan
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of these historic buildings is of paramount facilitate modern living standards and
protect the character and appearance of historic human activity. Many archaeological
importance. However, credence must be conveniences in some of our older
the wider street scene and not just the features may not be readily recognisable buildings that are Protected Structures
given to the needs of those who own and live
building itself. Very often the setting and or visible as they can be partly concealed located in Conservation Areas?
in Protected Structures. As such, alterations
the surrounding built environment forms an from plain view either underground or due an you name any parts of County
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and improvements to Protected Structures Galway that you would like to see
important feature of a Protected Structure. to foliage growth. Like Protected Structures
should be supported where the historic becoming a designated ACA?
and ACA’s, archaeology forms part of our past
an you identify any older buildings
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and therefore it needs to be preserved and that you are aware of that are worthy of
remembered in this Development Plan review. protection?
ow can we secure the protection of
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our archaeological features including
landscapes into the future?
23 24Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
will be encouraged in the first instance before
Key Questions
Social, Community and
Social, Community and Cultural Development
progressing to development of greenfield
re you satisfied with the provision of
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sites. Co-location of education and childcare
community and cultural facilities in your
Cultural Development
facilities is considered to be the preferred area?
choice among parents. hat kind of community facilities would
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you like to see provided for in the new
County Galway has a long established rich and County Development Plan?
Central to the development of the county’s Where new school buildings are developed varied cultural tradition. The 2020 Capital of
o you think that schools and childcare
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towns and villages are the provision of the multi-use of assembly halls and playing Culture programme sees evidence of this in facilities should be co-located?
adequate community facilities for all sectors pitches will be encouraged, this has previously many of the County’s towns and villages. hat type of facilities in your view
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across society. Community facilities include worked quite well as a valued resource to the would be required in County Galway to
the provision of libraries, schools, childcare local community. support existing communities?
facilities, open space, playing grounds, leisure ow can the multi use of existing
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The county development plan review will community buildings and facilities
facilities and health centres. The development
examine each of the settlements within in your area be facilitated and
of these facilities in our towns and villages will encouraged?
the county and identify suitable areas for
encourage people to live in these locations
community facilities. The expansion and hat type of cultural and arts facilities
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and will also create a sense of social cohesion. are needed in County Galway and how
redevelopment of existing community
can the new county development plan
facilities such as schools and sports facilities deliver these?
The county
development
plan review will
examine each of
the settlements
within the county
and identify
suitable areas
for community
facilities
25 26Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
The Galway Gaeltacht
The Galway Gaeltacht
County Galway has the largest Gaeltacht the area from Bearna to Carna and including
population in Ireland representing 49.7% of Oileáin Árann.
the national Gaeltacht population, where
Chapter 10 - Cultural, Social and Community
49,524 people speak the Irish language daily
Development of the existing Galway County
(based on Census 2016). The Galway Gaeltacht
Development Plan 2015-2021 contains
stretches from Baile Chláir, which is east of
narrative, policies and objectives relating to
the city to Cloch na Rón in west Conamara,
the Gaeltacht. It is envisaged that there will be
a distance of approximately 100km, and from
a chapter relating specifically to the Gaeltacht
Oileáin Árann northwards to the Mayo border.
in the new Galway County Development Plan
The language and culture of the Gaeltacht
2022 - 2028. A number of settlements in the
is a unique and precious inheritance, which
Galway Gaeltacht have settlement plans in
it is a National aim to preserve and protect.
situ and these will appear in the Appendix
This aim is now enshrined in the Planning and
referred as ‘Settlement Plans’. A very small
Development Act, 2000 (as amended). The
part of the Country is designated as being in
strongest Irish speaking community in the
the Gaeltacht and it must be preserved and
country is located in County Galway, mainly in
promoted linguistically.
49.7%
Key Questions
ow can we manage our cultural
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resources to ensure that the Gaeltacht
County Galway economies and communities prosper in a
has the largest sustainable manner?
Gaeltacht ow do you think that the Plan can
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population in support the Gaeltacht area?
Ireland
27 28Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
GI such as greenways is usually carried out the community through active participation,
Natural Heritage, Landscape
Natural Heritage, Landscape and Green Infrastructure
by collaboration and agreement between knowledge and understanding of our natural
landowners. The benefits of GI can be far heritage.
and Green Infrastructure reaching. The new Plan must seek to support
GI where possible as it offers a valued type of
The review of the County Development Plan
will also seek to promote and protect our
recreation and amenity. Buildings within the
County Galway as the second largest county a measured approach to changes in the biodiversity and natural heritage as required
towns and villages along with public urban
in Ireland has some of the most unique landscape must be maintained. by the NPF.
parks and squares, provide communities with
landscape types in the country, which are of
The NPF now requires the integration of a valued focal point for various events which Galway has the highest number of Natura
great variance from the coastal landscapes in
planning for Green Infrastructure (GI). The provides alternative recreation and amenity 2000 sites which include Special Areas of
the west, bog lands to the north to the fertile
review of the County Development Plan will options. Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection
plains in the east.
include an analysis of the (GI) that exists Areas (SPA). It is important to recognise the
Biodiversity includes the variety of plant and
The existing Landscape Character Assessment across the County and how it can be improved. value of these protected habitats that form
animal life in County Galway which are to
(LCA) for County Galway will be reviewed as This will result in a GI Strategy that will form the natura network. Therefore, the review
be considered important and desirable. The
part of the County Development Plan maling part of the new County Development Plan. of the County Development Plan must give
Heritage and Biodiversity Action Plan for
process. The Landscape Strategy examines For reference GI includes the parks, walkways careful consideration to County Galway’s rich
County Galway 2017–2022 places heritage
the various landscape character types across and trails, any green corridors and spaces biodiversity and wide ranging habitats and
and biodiversity at the heart of public life. This
the County and how they were formed. The that can be used to the benefit of the local species that exist.
would be achieved through the promotion of
landscape is divided into regions, character community. GI can also provide a solution
awareness of biodiversity and heritage within
types and units. Scenic routes and a sensitivity to flooding with open green spaces doubling
rating will also be defined. The protection up as a place that can retain flood water. It
and preservation of these landscapes needs also protects our biodiversity. It is important
Key Questions
The Heritage ow can the new County Plan protect and enhance Galway’s
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to be balanced against the reality that these to note that not all GI is publicly available.
and Biodiversity existing natural heritage and biodiversity?
are living and working landscapes. Therefore, Delivery of large expanses of publicly available Action Plan for
ow can the new County Development Plan tailor its policies
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County Galway and objectives in a manner that will continue to protect
2017– 2022 places the natural heritage including landscape while supporting
heritage and sustainable development?
biodiversity at the
re there any pieces of GI that you are aware of in County
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heart of public
Galway that could be developed further to benefit the
life community?
How can the existing GI in County Galway be improved?
29 30Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028
Agriculture, Fishing Marine
Agriculture, Fishing Marine and Forestry
and Forestry
Agriculture makes an important contribution Combined the development of agriculture, contribution to the economy has been
Key Questions
to the County’s rural economy. As such this fishing and forestry industries will not only calculated at €2.3 billion annually with some
ow can the Council support
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industry is of great value to our economy sustain rural employment but also contribute 12,000 jobs dependent on the sector in 2012. sustainable means of agriculture fishing
and therefore merits protection and support to driving the national economy, a sentiment In the case of County Galway that has a and forestry related activities?
where possible. However, the agricultural that it’s expressed in the NPF. quantum of land that would not be suitable to ow can the County Development
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industry must adapt to the challenges that are agricultural production, for example, this has Plan support and encourage the
NPO 39 of the NPF seeks to support the development of the agri-food and
posed in a competitive international market. been found to be suitable for afforestation.
sustainable growth and development of the related sectors?
The exit of the UK from the EU is one of the There are environmental benefits to forestry
maritime economy and continue to invest in ow can the new County Development
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biggest challenges facing the agriculture development as it contributes to our carbon
the seafood sector and our Fishery Harbour Plan encourage the use of land for
industry. The preservation of the environment sequestration potential which is welcomed afforestation where appropriate?
Centres, particularly in remote rural coastal
and designated sites across the County is and supported by national government as we an you identify areas within County
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communities and islands. This is of particular
also something that those directly involved are required to reduce our level of greenhouse Galway that you would consider
relevance to County Galway given our appropriate land for afforestation?
in agriculture are required to consider. This gas emissions. However, increased planting
extensive coastline. This is a great asset to the ow can the new County Development
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requires careful planning and innovative ways can only be achieved as existing agricultural
rural economy which provides communities Plan manage County Galway’s maritime
of working around certain parameters. land that is not economically viable becomes resources ensuring a balance is
across the county the opportunity to become
available for forestry use. maintained between social, economic
The continued development of the agri-food involved in maritime related industries. and environmental issues?
sector is supported and encouraged as it is
The forestry industry makes an increasing
becoming increasingly important to the rural
contribution to the rural economy of County
31 economy. 32
Galway. Nationally the direct and indirectIts Your Plan,
Have Your Say...
Submissions/Observations can only be made between
18th June 2020 – 10th September 2020. The deadline for receipt of all
submissions is 4PM on Thursday 10th September 2020.
Where do I send my Submission/Observation?
In writing to Administrative Officer, CDP Review, Forward Planning Policy Unit,
Áras an Chontae, Prospect Hill, Galway
or
Email: forwardplanning@galwaycoco.ie
or
Online form: www.galway.ie/cdpreviewsubmissionsYou can also read
