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 .

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 as many individuals and groups are involved in this process as possible Preamble so that the final County Development Plan reflects public concerns and aspirations whilst having regard to national and regional policies and Galway 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. by the Council. The planning process is an galway.ie or in hard copy from our offices Making a Submission open and public process and therefore your 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 [email protected] 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). In addition staff will be available to meet Council, Áras an Chontae, Prospect Hill, 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. [email protected] 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: [email protected]

VIEW CLICK TO Or Online form: www.galway.ie/cdpreviewsubmissions

VIEW CLICK TO 3 Please send your submission/observation through one medium only, either electronically or hard 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 dialogue on the key Stage 1 ‘Pre-Draft’ and includes for the preparation of an IT’S YOUR Issues Paper. During this and the subsequent stages, as 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 AFTER ALL, IT’S YOUR PLAN

With your active help and guidance, the new 1 2 3 Galway County Development Plan can create a more attractive, inclusive, competitive and sustainable County. Pre-Draft Draft Development Amendments to Draft Play Public Consultation Plan Public Consultation The new Plan should reflect the needs and (Issues Paper) Public Consultation Draft (Amendments) ambitions of all communities in the County Chief Executive’s Report Plan Chief Executive’s Report of Galway, so it is essential that you have Your on Consultation Chief Executive’s Report on Submissions your say right from the start. Galway County Direction from Elected on Submissions Consideration of Chief Council welcomes the views of individuals Members Executives Report by Consideration of Chief or groups on the content of the new County Elected Members Part Preparation of Draft Executive’s Report by Development Plan. We really want to know Development Plan Elected Members Adoption of New what you think the main issues facing the Material Amendments Development Plan County of Galway in the future. 5 being Prepared 6 Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028

Context of the Plan Key Challenges We Face! Context of the Plan Developing a unique identity and building Providing sufficient physical and social on the strengths of the County. infrastructure to support economic th North-West came into effect on 24 January development and to enhance our quality of National and Regional Growing the metropolitan area and other 2020 and includes a Metropolitan boundary life. Policy settlements within the County to achieve encompassing , An Bearna and Baile Compact Growth. Promoting town and village centre The Government have published Project vibrancy and vitality with multi-functional Chláir. It is envisaged that these areas as key Living in the future and how it will be uses including entertaining, living, 2040 (National Planning Framework economic drivers within Metropolitan Galway different. gathering, working, shopping etc. and National Development Plan 2018 – 2027). will accommodate significant population Reducing our carbon footprint and Building on the provision of high-quality Galway now forms part of the North West achieving the national target of zero increases and jobs within the lifetime of this employment and economic opportunities emissions by 2050. Regional Assembly. The Regional Spatial new Galway County Development Plan 2022 at appropriate and sustainable locations. Living sustainably without compromising and Economic Strategy (RSES) for the – 2028. Delivering a balance between social and future generations. private housing. Accommodating the needs of an ageing 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 vibrancy & settlements Key vitality Government Policy County Development Challenges Plans Climate Change we face! Capital infrastructure Programmes to support Local Area Plans 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 our carbon County Development Plan must be consistent with national and regional policies and guidelines population footprint and objectives. Living sustainably

7 8 Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028

How and where we plan to meet our housing Core Strategy and Housing Galway County Galway County Galway County targets must be set out in the Plan’s Core Core Strategy and Housing 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 Census Census Census prioritised and reserve an appropriate amount ‘Settlement Hierarchy’ will form part of the located in a wide variety of areas, both urban of land in those locations to meet housing and Core Strategy of the Development Plan, which and rural. The towns, villages and rural areas 2006 2011 2016 population targets. The Plan will support this will provide a framework for the development have their own character which influences 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 How best can the County be a key challenge. Development Plan cater for the *Galway projected population growth in the Metropolitan Area 179,390 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 Where should the increase in had a total Hub Town Census (2011). Galway County’s population population within the County be population of directed? was 12.6% higher than a decade earlier (2006), 179,390 Development land is a limited 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 , **Oranmore, , , (NPF) and the Regional Spatial and Economic of appropriate land to create , , Maigh Cuilinn sustainable communities? Strategy (RSES) for the North-West sets ***Other Villages How can Council policy protect Baile Chláir, , , , , An target populations for Galway County. The Cheathrú Rua, , , , , areas within the County currently Corofin, , , An Spidéal, , new County Development Plan will be in Kilcolgan,An Tulaigh/Baile na hAbhann, Cor an Dola, under severe pressure for one-off Woodlawn, ,New Inn,. accordance with the NPF and RSES. dwellings? Where in the County should population growth be directed to Other Selements & Rural Area achieve balanced growth as per the RSES? Briarhill, An Carn Mór, Lackagh, , Abbeyknockmoy, Cluain Bú, Is there a deficit in the provision of Eanach Dhúin, , Aymon, , , , Aughrim, Caltra, Clonfert, a particular type of housing that Kiltormer, , Lawrencetown, Fohenagh, Killoran,, Ballinamore Bridge, should be addressed eg. apartment, Gorteen, Cappataggle, Willimastown, , , Belclare, Kilbennan, duplex etc? Briarfield, Newbridge, , Milltown, Kilconly, Caherlistrane, Brownsgrove, Sylane, Lavally, Foxhall, Newbridge, Cashla, Kiltevna, Glinsk, Ballyglunin, Laragh More, Woodford, , Ballymana, Esker, Carrabane, Kiltullagh, What contributes to an attractive Derrydonnell Beg, , 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 How can the plan best address Ros an Mhíl, , Tulaigh Mhic Aodháin, Leir Móir, Cill Chiaráin, Cill Rónáin, Roundstone, Carna, Tully/Renvyle, land is a limited population increased residential densities? Glinsk, Leir Mealláin, Béal an Daingin, Tullycross, , An Fhairche, Leenane, , Leerfrack, , Corr na Móna, valuable growth be , Sraith Salach, Claddaghduff, An Mám, , An Aird Mhóir, Maree, Kilbeacanty, Cloghanover, Camas. resource How should social housing be directed? delivered and do we have the right balance between social and private 9 10 Galway CDP 2015~2021 housing? 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 How can the plan support the delivery of be that these Key Towns develop as attractive, a robust (MASP)? liveable, vibrant, and well-designed locations How can we make our urban places more that ensure a high quality of life, which will attractive for people to live and work? promote a sense of place and personal well- What parts of the urban places (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 How can we make our urban places areas, each having a high degree of self- (Metropolitan areas, Towns and villages) sufficiency. more attractive and connected for pedestrians and cyclists? Should we facilitate a better mix of 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 How should the countryside be protect the enhanced through better design? countryside How can the County Development Plan promote improvement in the quality of from excessive the built environment in rural areas? & inappropriate How can the County Development Plan ensure that development is appropriate development to its location? How can rural housing be designed to a high standard?  How can the new County Development Plan support development within the smaller settlements that do not have zoning plans?

13 14 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 the Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028

North-West Region and has a very successful Economic, Enterprise, Tourism and Retail Development brand domestically. The Wild Atlantic Way The agri-food 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 and promoting tourism, in particular Galway City, Conamara, including Oileáin Árann the national and Inishbofin, resulting in tourist numbers increasing annually. agricultural output

36% The retail national agricultural environment is output changing with Key Questions significant What are County Galway’s strengths and migration to weaknesses regarding future enterprise and employment growth? online sales How can the County Plan support 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 How can the Plan best support new and 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 What areas of the County have the 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 What areas within Galway have 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 to develop quality retail and commercial What policies should be introduced to 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 How can the Plan policies help integrate 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 18 tourism brands. tourism, etc? Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028 Infrastructureand Transport Key Questions How can the plan best promote walking, cycling and the use of public transport? Infrastructure and Transport How can the plan support agencies in the provision of Water and Wastewater? How can rural transport and accessibility be improved? Are there significant factors leading to deterioration in the quality of groundwater How can the concept of “Smarter Travel” or rivers and how can these be addressed? be incorporated into the plan to reduce dependence on the private car? What towns and villages should be prioritised for water/wastewater Should parking standards for new improvements? developments reflect the need to reduce car dependency? How can the County Development Plan make sure that there is a better How can the safety of vulnerable road 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 20 Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028

The existing Wind Energy Strategy for Environment, Renewable Energies and Communications Environment, Renewable County Galway will be replaced with a new Local Authority Renewable Energy Strategy (LARES) as part of this County Energies and Communications Plan process. LARES will form an appendix 2050 of the County Plan providing details on the greenhouse gas The County Development Plan must ensure on the climate change actions as per the CAP. various renewable energy options available 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 What are the main environmental issues now a key requirement in the preparation of its availability, price and quality and and on EU protected sites (Natura 2000 that currently face Galway? development plans and determining planning sites) and their networks. A Strategic Flood acknowledges its role in attracting inward applications. The ‘Planning System and Flood What additional measures should be Risk Assessment (SFRA) will also be carried investment. Antennae and support structures taken to protect the environment? Risk Management Guidelines’ emphasise the out. are necessary to facilitate a high-quality How can the County Development Plan 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 What methods should the Council encourage to maximise renewable greenhouse gas emissions has accelerated against the effects of possible flood events. 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. Where should wind turbines be 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 What should the Council be doing to knowledge-based economy. promote bio-energy production from waste streams, agri-food effluents, manures, municipal solid waste, sewage sludge and purpose grown energy crops? How can the plan support the provision of telecommunications & broadband providers?

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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 How can the new County Development 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. Archaeological Heritage includes physical Structures, ACA’s and archaeology? process. The protection and preservation Architectural Conservation Areas (ACA’s) remnants that remain in place and form part of How can the new County Plan 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 Can you name any parts of County 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 Can you identify any older buildings and therefore it needs to be preserved and that you are aware of that are worthy of remembered in this Development Plan review. protection? How can we secure the protection of our archaeological features including landscapes into the future?

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will be encouraged in the first instance before CommunitySocial, and Cultural Development Key Questions progressing to development of greenfield Are you satisfied with the provision of Social, Community and sites. Co-location of education and childcare community and cultural facilities in your facilities is considered to be the preferred area? Cultural Development choice among parents. What kind of community facilities would 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 Do you think that schools and childcare 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. What type of facilities in your view 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 How can the multi use of existing The county development plan review will facilities and health centres. The development community buildings and facilities examine each of the settlements within in your area be facilitated and of these facilities in our towns and villages will the county and identify suitable areas for encouraged? encourage people to live in these locations community facilities. The expansion and What type of cultural and arts facilities 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

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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 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.

Key Questions How can we manage our cultural 49.7% resources to ensure that the Gaeltacht County Galway economies and communities prosper in a has the largest sustainable manner? Gaeltacht How do you think that the Plan can population in support the Gaeltacht area? Ireland

27 28 Galway County Development Plan Issues Paper | 2022~2028

GI such as greenways is usually carried out the community through active participation, Natural Heritage, Landscape and Green Infrastructure Natural Heritage, Landscape by collaboration and agreement between knowledge and understanding of our natural landowners. The benefits of GI can be far heritage. reaching. The new Plan must seek to support The review of the County Development Plan and Green Infrastructure GI where possible as it offers a valued type of 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 to be balanced against the reality that these to note that not all GI is publicly available. How can the new County Plan protect and enhance Galway’s and Biodiversity existing natural heritage and biodiversity? are living and working landscapes. Therefore, Delivery of large expanses of publicly available Action Plan for How can the new County Development Plan tailor its policies 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 Are there any pieces of GI that you are aware of in County 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 30 Galway 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 How can the Council support 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 How can the County Development 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 How can the new County Development 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 Can you identify areas within County 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 requires careful planning and innovative ways can only be achieved as existing agricultural How can the new County Development rural economy which provides communities Plan manage County Galway’s maritime of working around certain parameters. land that is not economically viable becomes across the county the opportunity to become resources ensuring a balance is 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 indirect Its 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: [email protected]

or

Online form: www.galway.ie/cdpreviewsubmissions