Appendix 10

Sinead Harkin

Executive Planner

Central Planning Unit

Donegal County Council

County House

Lifford

Co

3rd September 2015

Re: Preliminary Consultation on the preparation of a draft LAP for Tier 2 towns.

Dear Sinead

The Planning Committee of City and District Council notes the contents of the Preliminary Consultation on the preparation of a draft LAP for Tier 2 towns ; namely -, , Bridgend, , Donegal Town, and .

From our review, the Committee considers the appropriate role for each tier is a key consideration when planning for the successful and sustainable development of a district. This is especially significant as both Council areas plan for the future to deliver a thriving North West Region overall. We acknowledge the emphasis of the settlement hierarchy is focused on the Gateway role of as the primary driver of growth in , followed by a network of ‘Strategic Support Towns’ – the Tier 2 towns which will play an important role as self-sufficient service centres within the county, providing for the social, economic and community needs of the wider population within their respective surrounding areas. Whilst it is recognised that the designation of the towns to tiers is done in the CDP itself, it is noted that is not a Tier 2 town; this is particularly noted in relation to its ‘twin town’ status with Strabane and its location on the main A5 / N14 transport corridor.

The NI Regional Development Strategy (RDS 2035) recognises the primacy of Derry-Londonderry as the key centre of the North West, as well as its role as a linked Gateway with Letterkenny. Accordingly, it is anticipated that our new Local Development Plan (LDP 2015-30, which is shortly to commence formal preparation) will seek to reinforce the primacy of Derry City and this can be expected to be supported by constraint on our satellite towns and villages in the immediate vicinity of Derry – thus building the City’s ‘critical mass’ and concentrating development in the City as the most sustainable location in relation to infrastructure and environment. It is therefore respectfully suggested that it would be appropriate to show restraint on settlements such as Bridgend – in support of the growth of Letterkenny and of Derry.

Specifically, consideration needs to be given to the wisdom of permitting significant amounts of retailing, employment land and housing in this close proximity to Derry City. Additionally, the need for a visual and functional separation between the two settlements needs to be considered. In summary, it is suggested that it is a critical opportunity for the two Councils to demonstrate ‘joined up’ planning rather than back-to-back developments, to promote co-operation rather than competition. A liaison meeting to discuss such matters with relevant officers may be useful at this stage.

I trust that you find these comments useful as you continue the preparation of the LDP for these Tier 2 towns. This Committee looks forward to continuing liaison with as we plan for the future of our adjoining Council areas and a thriving North West region.

Yours sincerely

Kieran McGuire

Planning Committee (Chair)

Derry City and Strabane District Council