Final Small Towns Study

8/12/2019 Final Small Towns Study

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West Regional Authority

dars Riginachan Iarthair

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2.4.1 Our Sustainable Future - A Framework for Sustainable Development for Ireland ............ 37

2.4.2 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Greening Irelands Communities................... 39

2.5 Conclusion ......................... .......................... .......................... ......................... ....................... 40

Chapter 3: Examination of Domestic & International Literature on Sustainable Small Towns ................ . 41

3.1 Introduction ....................... .......................... .......................... ......................... ....................... 42

3.2 Context of Small Towns Experience in the West Region ....................... .......................... ......... 43

3.3 Economic Components to Create Sustainable Small Towns .......................... ......................... . 44

3.3.1 Town Centre Management ........................ ......................... .......................... .................. 44

3.3.2 Local Networking & Connections ........................... .......................... .......................... ..... 49

3.3.3 Marketing & Promotion ........................ .......................... ......................... ....................... 52

3.3.4 Tourism ........................... .......................... ......................... .......................... .................. 56

3.3.5 Jobs and Employment................................ .......................... ......................... .................. 62

3.3.6 Transportation & Infrastructure Investment ........................ ......................... .................. 67

3.4 Social Components to Create Sustainable Small Towns ....................... .......................... ......... 71

3.4.1 Identity & Culture ........................ .......................... ......................... ........................... ..... 71

3.4.2 Equal Opportunity and Inclusion ........................ .......................... ......................... .......... 75

3.4.3 Community Dialogue & Engagement .......................... .......................... ......................... . 80

3.4.4 Partnership & Local Governance ........................ .......................... ......................... .......... 83

3.4.5 Community Safety & Facilities ....................... .......................... ......................... .............. 86

3.4.6 Healthy Living & Community Wellbeing .......................... ......................... ....................... 90

3.5 Environment Components to Create Sustainable Small Towns ......................... ...................... 94

3.5.1 Waste, Water & Energy Consumption................................ ........................... .................. 94

3.5.2 Environmental Quality .......................... .......................... ......................... ....................... 97

3.5.3 Built Heritage ........................... ......................... .......................... ......................... ........ 101

3.5.4 Natural Heritage ........................... ......................... ......................... ........................... ... 104

3.5.5 Housing ........................... .......................... ......................... .......................... ................ 109

3.5.6 Long Term Planning .......................... .......................... ......................... ......................... 113

3.6 Synopsis of Research Literature on Sustainable Small Towns ........................ ........................ 116

3.7 Conclusion ......................... .......................... .......................... ......................... ..................... 117

Chapter 4: Investigation of Primary Research Findings ........................... ......................... ..................... 118


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4.1 Introduction ....................... .......................... .......................... ......................... ..................... 119

4.2 Identifying Results from Primary Research in the Study Towns ......................... .................... 119

4.2.1 SWOT Analysis .......................... ......................... .......................... ......................... ........ 119

4.2.2 Additional Comments from Surveys Received by Stakeholders in Boyle ........................ 121

4.2.3 Additional Comments from Surveys Received by Stakeholders in Gort ....................... ... 123

4.2.4 Additional Comments from Surveys Received by Stakeholders in Swinford ................... 125

4.3 Findings of Walking Surveys & Analysis in the Three Study Towns ........................ ................ 125

4.3.1 Results of Walking Survey & Analysis in Boyle, Co. Roscommon ........................ ............ 125

4.3.2 Results of Walking Survey & Analysis in Gort, Co. Galway ......................... .................... 127

4.3.3 Results of Walking Survey & Analysis in Swinford, Co. Mayo ......................... ................ 128

4.4 Conclusion ......................... .......................... .......................... ......................... ..................... 129

Chapter 5: Final Conclusion & Potential Measures ........................ .......................... .......................... ... 130

5.1 Introduction ....................... .......................... .......................... ......................... ..................... 131

5.2 Key Contributions of the Small Towns Study (STS) ........................... ......................... ............ 131

5.3 Identifying Potential Measures in the Three Sample Towns .......................... ........................ 131

5.4 Synopsis of Domestic and International Case Studies & Good Practices ......................... ....... 146

5.5 Template for Implementing the Small Towns Study ......................... ......................... ............ 152

Appendices.......................................................................................................................................... 153

Bibliography ........................................................................................................................................ 155


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Acknowledgements

The West Regional Authority (WRA) wish to acknowledge the contributions made and extends our

thanks to the numerous personnel and organisations that have helped in the development,consultation and completion of this study.

The Small Towns Study has been developed through a collaborative process involving the inputs ofthe four local authorities in the region, public and private sector agencies, semi-state and civilsociety organisations and research institutions. The study was guided by the Sustaining SmallExpanding Towns(SusSET) project which implemented a toolkit strategy for sustainable towns inEurope. This toolkit strategy was completed through a European Union (EU) funded INTERREG IIICprogramme and the development of eighteen components to assist growth in small towns was a keyelement of this study.

Furthermore, the input of local stakeholders in the three sample study towns of Gort, CountyGalway, Swinford, County Mayo and Boyle, County Roscommon is greatly appreciated. Special

acknowledgement must be extended to Cllr. John Cummins, Cllr. Gerry Finnerty and Cllr. JosephMellett who arranged meetings with the local stakeholders and co-ordinated the study visit in theirrespective towns.

Finally, the WRA would also like to thank all the elected members of the Authority for their supportand endorsement of this important study on small towns in the region.


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List of Acronyms

Action to Strengthen Small European Towns (ASSET)

Back to Work Enterprise Allowance (BTWEA)Ballymun Regeneration Ltd. (BRL)Border, Midlands, and West (BMW)Central Statistics Office (CSO)County Development Plan (CDP)Declining, Aging and Regional Transformation (DART)Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (DoCENR)Department of Environment, Community and Local Government (DoCHLG)Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DoEHLG)Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DoPER)Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)European Council for the Villages and Small Towns (ECOVAST)European Spatial Development Perspective (ESDP)European Union (EU)Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT)Galway County Council (GCC)Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA)Local Area Plan (LAP)Local and Community Development Programme (LCDP)Local Employment Service (LES)Mayo County Council (MCC)National Development Plan (NDP)National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG)

National Spatial Strategy (NSS)Non-Government Organisation (NGO)Ordnance Survey Ireland (OSI)Regional Planning Guidelines (RPGs)Regional Transport Strategy (RTS)Roscommon County Council (RCC)Rural Transport Network (RTN)Rural Transport Programme (RTP)Small Area Population (SAP)Small Towns Study (STS)Strategic Development Zone (SDZ)

Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT)Sustaining Small Expanding Towns (SusSET)Town Centre Management (TCM)Urban Electoral Division (UED)Village Design Scheme (VDS)Warwickshire Rural Enterprise Network (WREN)Western Rail Corridor (WRC)West Regional Authority (WRA)


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Executive Summary

In recent years, many small towns in the West Region have suffered from economic, social

and environmental decline which has resulted in towns becoming less attractive places inwhich to live, work and do business.The elected members of the West Regional Authority (WRA) expressed these concerns forsmall towns and requested that a study be completed by the executive staff of the WRA.The purpose of undertaking the Small Towns Study (STS) was to focus on ways to makesmall towns more sustainable in the future. The study outlines sixty-five (65) Case Studyexamples of successful measures adopted in other small towns internationally and inIreland. (See Chapter 3 for the Examination of Domestic & International Case Studies onSustainable Small Towns).While it is accepted that the challenges facing small towns are many and complex,particularly in economic terms, and that the performance of such towns is heavilyinfluenced by national and international economic conditions, it is hoped that the case

studies referred to will provide useful examples of positive initiatives which may beconsidered for implementation.The study was guided by the Sustaining Small Expanding Towns (SusSET) project whichimplemented a toolkit strategy for sustainable towns in Europe. This was achieved througha European Union (EU) funded INTERREG IIIC programme1 and developed eighteensustainable town components to assist small towns under economic, social andenvironment pillars.For the purpose of this study, three sample towns in the West Region were selected toinvestigate their strengths, limitations and opportunities, based on the perception of localstakeholders. The three sample towns analysed are Boyle in County Roscommon, Gort inCounty Galway and Swinford in County Mayo. (See Chapter 4 for the Investigation of PrimaryResearch Findings).

A final conclusion and potential measures which could be considered for the three townsare outlined in Chapter 5, along with a synopsis table of the Case Study examples. (SeeChapter 5 for list of potential measures to be implemented in the three towns).The potential measures identify the need for greater community focus and strongcoordination between the communities, businesses, agencies, local authorities and otherstakeholders to achieve any tasks necessary. The estimated timescale for implementationranges from short-term to more long-term measures which must be planned for now and inthe future.The measures relate to enhancing tourism, marketing and tourist information; enhancinglocal services; greater employment opportunities; improving social inclusion; andmaintaining a high quality of environment. The main partners who will assist in carryingout these possible measures include the local communities and businesses, voluntaryorganisations and local committees, chambers of commerce, elected representatives andlocal authorities, government departments and state agencies.

1INTERREG IIIC Programme provides funding for interregional cooperation. Its aim is to promote the exchange and

transfer of knowledge across Europe. It is implemented under the European Communitys territorial co-operationobjective and financed through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)


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Primary research was undertaken using a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities andThreats (SWOT) analysis, walking surveys and meetings with a number of stakeholders inthe three study towns to gather feedback from the local communities.

It is important to connect the results of the walking surveys (areas of strength andopportunity in towns) under Chapter 4 with the domestic and international Case Studyexamples outlined in Chapter 3 to identify successful measures that potentially can beimplemented in the sample towns and other small towns nationally.Secondary research involved a review of available literature relating to small townsincluding key planning and policy documents (see Chapter 2 for Key Planning and PolicyContext)and the examination of a toolkit strategy for sustainable measures in small townsusing eighteen (18) components under economic, social and environment pillars.It is expected that the study will benefit policy-makers and decision-makers who plan anddeliver local services in small towns. Furthermore, it is hoped that the STS will act as aninformation tool to assist local stakeholders in the three small towns and other small townsnationally, to undertake practical measures to encourage sustainable growth in their

respective towns.The STS provides a template which can be applied to any small town. (See below for the fivestep template in completing the Small Towns Study).

Key Words:decline, small towns, pillars, components, assist, sustainable, growth, economic, social,environment, template, case studies, SWOT, measures, and practical.

Step 1

Introduction & Purpose of Study (State the Aim and Overall Objectives of Study)

Step 2

Literature Research of Key Plans, Policies & Guidelines Affecting the SmallTown

(Review of Statutory & Non-Statutory Plans)

Step 3

Examine Successful Case Studies of Practical Measures in Other Townsboth Domestically and Internationally

(Use SusSET Template of Three Key Pillars and Eighteen Components)

Step 4

Undertake Primary Research on Small Town & Collate Results (SWOT Analysis, Walking Survey & Local Stakeholder Input)

Step 5

Identify Potential Measures to be Adopted in the Small Town based on

the Primary and Secondary Research Findings (Initiatives to be implemented over the Short, Medium and Long Term)


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Chapter 1: Introduction & Context ofStudy


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1.1 Introduction

This report on small towns in the West Region has been prepared at a time of vast economicuncertainty both nationally and internationally. However, the economic downturn gives anopportunity to create a practical report for small towns that will not only facilitate rejuvenation butwill seek to ensure that growth takes place in a coherent and sustainable manner for the benefit ofthe towns, counties and regions.

For the purposes of this study, there is a focus on key strengths, limitations and opportunities forgrowth within three sample towns in the West Region. The sample towns chosen for the study areSwinford, County Mayo, Gort, County Galway and Boyle, County Roscommon. The towns are locatedwithin each of the three counties in the West Region in order to allow for an inclusive researchsphere but it is hoped that the approach taken can provide a template which can be used in townsunder similar circumstances in the West Region and in other towns nationally.

Figure 1: Map highlighting the Three Study Towns2

This Small Towns Study (STS) was prepared by the executive staff of the West Regional Authority(WRA) and on behalf of the members of the West Regional Authority.

2 Galway County Council (2012) Includes Ordnance Survey Ireland data reproduced under OSi Licence Number

2012/15CCMA/Galway County Council. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Ordnance Survey Ireland andGovernment of Ireland copyright. Ordnance Survey Ireland 2012. All rights reserved


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1.2 Defining Sustainable Development & Key Pillars of Sustainability

The term sustainable development is most commonly defined as development that meets the needsof the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs3and isa key driver of the Small Towns Study (STS) for the West Region.

Sustainable development can also be described as a continuous, guided process of economic,environmental and social change aimed at promoting the wellbeing of citizens now and in the future.

To realise this requires creating a sustainable and resource-efficient economy founded on a fair and

just society, which respects the ecological limits and carrying capacity of the natural environment.4

The STS will explore key literature relating to the three key pillars of sustainability which includeeconomic, social and environmental themes. The pillar of economic development can be defined asthe sustained, concerted actions of policymakers and communities to promote the standard of livingand economic health of a specific area.5Such actions can involve multiple areas including creatinghuman capital, improving critical infrastructure, regional competitiveness, environmentalsustainability, social inclusion, health and safety.

The pillar of social development can be defined as putting people at the centre of development whichmeans a commitment that development processes need to benefit all people both rich and poor, but

also recognising that people and the way they interact in groups and society, and the norms thatfacilitates such interaction, shape development processes.6 Social development processes includepoverty reduction, safe communities, increased level of cooperation between local stakeholders,community oversight in the management of projects, ethnicity and gender equality and theeradication of social disparities in education and health.

Lastly, sustainable development relating to the environment can be defined as a continuous, guidedprocess of environmental change, which respects the ecological limits and carrying capacity of the

natural environment.7Sustainable development for the environment ties together the processes ofmaintaining the natural landscape whilst also catering for the economic and social needs of itsinhabitants. Examples of catering for environmental development include sufficient levels of wasteand water services and energy conservation, maintaining the built and natural heritage andproviding sufficient levels of housing within a small town.

1.3 Aim and Objectives

The aim and objectives are crucial to the overall formation of the study and therefore it would beadvantageous for the local community, relevant stakeholders and civic leaders to adopt theobjectives as set out in the report below and ensure that the strategic aim is progressed into thefuture.

3Brundtland, United Nations (1987) Report of the World Commission on Environment and Development, GeneralAssembly Resolution4 Department of Environment, Community and Local Government (2012) Our Sustainable Future A Framework

for Sustainable Development for Ireland, DoECLG, ireland, pg. 105Sen, A. (1983) Development: Which Way Now? Economic Journal, Vol. 93 Issue 372, pages 745-762

6Davis Gloria (2004) A History of Social Development in the World Bank, Washington D.C., The World Bank, Social

Development, Paper No. 567Department of Environment, Community and Local Government (2012), Our Sustainable Future A Framework

for Sustainable Development for Ireland, pg. 10


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1.3.1 Aim

The strategic aim for undertaking the Small Towns Study Sustainable Development in the WestRegionis set out as follows:

To examine the circumstances of three sample towns in the West Region, namely Gort,Swinford and Boyle. The study will analyse successful domestic and international Case Studiesunder the pillars of economic, social and environmental considerations. The Case Studies willassist in identifying potential key measures for small towns in the future. Ultimately, the studywill provide a template for the sustainable development of all small towns in the West Regionand nationally.

The aim of the STS gives clear scope for the structure of research by providing evidence-basedexamples and identifying practical measures to the perceived limitations affecting small towns inthe West Region and other small towns nationally.

1.3.2 Objectives

The following four objectives will form the basis of the STS and provide clarity on the overarchingaim of the study:

1) Analyse key legislative and non-statutory plans and policies at European, national, regional andlocal levels which administers town planning structures and oversees sustainable towndevelopment in the West Region.

2) Examine Case Study examples of successful initiatives in other small towns domestically andinternationally using eighteen components under economic, social and environment pillars.

3) Undertake primary research using the SWOT analysis technique, a walking survey on each townand conduct meetings with a number of local stakeholders in the three sample towns.

4) Identify potential measures for the three sample towns in the West Region, based on the resultsof the SWOT analysis, to encourage sustainable growth and enhance small towns in the future.

1.4 Research Methodology

In order to fully test the aim and objectives put forward, two traditional research methods wereadopted. The following outlines the primary and secondary research methods implemented:

1.4.1 Primary Research

Having considered numerous methods of primary research, a walking survey in Gort, Swinford andBoyle was completed to establish the level of local amenities/services, employment industries,transport infrastructure, housing and quality of the environment in each town. The researchfindings are also based on the input of a number of local stakeholders in the three towns and themethod used to collate the results from the stakeholders was through a Strengths, Weaknesses,Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) survey. As stakeholders have a diverse range of interests, theSWOT analysis has provided an invaluable contribution for the benefit of the study.


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1.4.2 Secondary Research

The STS explored key secondary research literature by outlining sixty-five (65) successful CaseStudy examples in Ireland and internationally under eighteen components relating to economic,social and environmental factors (see Chapter 3 for the Examination of Domestic and InternationalLiterature on Sustainable Small Towns).Furthermore, deskbound research was conducted with areview of statutory and non-statutory plans and policies implemented and relates to the sampletowns in the West Region (see Chapter 2 for Key Planning & Policy Context).

1.5 Context of the West Region and the Small Towns Study

The West Region is situated in the western periphery of Europe and along the Atlantic Ocean. TheWest Regional Authority (WRA) comprises of three of the five Connaught counties of Galway, Mayoand Roscommon. The region has a population of 455,356 (2011), with a total functional areaextending to 13,801 sq. km. and a population density of 32 persons per sq. km.8The West Region

incorporates four administrative local authority areas of Galway, Mayo and Roscommon CountyCouncils and Galway City Council.

For the purposes of this study, the towns of Gort, County Galway, Swinford, County Mayo and Boyle,County Roscommon were selected as sample towns to be examined in the West Region. Thestructure of the study is as follows; outlining the key planning and policy context of the threesample towns; examining domestic and international literature on sustainable small towns;investigating the primary research findings and a final conclusion and identifying potentialmeasures to be implemented and are perceived by local stakeholders to enhance the three sampletowns.

8Central Statistics Office (2011) Census 2011 Population by Regional Authority, website source;

http://www.cso.ie/px/pxeirestat/Statire/SelectVarVal/saveselections.asp
http://www.cso.ie/px/pxeirestat/Statire/SelectVarVal/saveselections.asphttp://www.cso.ie/px/pxeirestat/Statire/SelectVarVal/saveselections.asphttp://www.cso.ie/px/pxeirestat/Statire/SelectVarVal/saveselections.asp


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Chapter 2: Key Planning & Policy Context


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2.1 Introduction

The emergence of coherent legislative plans/strategies governing the development of towns inIreland is seen as a key element for shaping future growth and maintaining a high quality of life.The primary purpose of this chapter is to identify and evaluate the relevant spatial plans andpolicies which dictate the development of small towns in the West Region.

The evaluation will also assess whether the statutory/non-statutory policies are consistent at alllevels or does a policy disconnect currently exist, i.e. between European, National & Local levels. Itis hoped that this chapter will establish whether the policies and plans adopted from the top-downare sufficient to cater for the multiple needs of small towns in Ireland at present. (See Figure 2below for planning hierarchy and relevant plans and strategies)

Figure 2: Diagram showing Planning Hierarchy and Relevant Plans & Guidelines9

Planning Hierarchy Relevant Plans, Strategies & DirectivesEuropean

UnionEuropean Spatial Development

Perspective 1999European Directives; Conventions &

Agreements

National National Spatial Strategy 2002 &Update Outlook 2010

Other National Strategies/Plans/Guidelines

(e.g. National Development Plan, Polices andProgrammes of Government Departments,

Capital Programmes and Planning Guidelines)

Regional Regional Planning Guidelines 2010 Other Regional Plans/Guidelines

(e.g. Strategic Environmental Assessment,Appropriate Assessment, Capital Programmes,Regional Waste Management Plan/Strategy &

River Basin Management Plan)

Local

County, City & Town DevelopmentPlans

(e.g. Galway City Development Plan,Roscommon County Development Plan)

County Development BoardStrategies/Corporate Boards

(e.g. Mayo County Development Board Strategy)

Local Area Plans

(e.g. Gort, Swinford & Boyle Local AreaPlans)

2.2 Evaluation of Plans, Guidelines and PoliciesFigure 2clearly illustrates that the planning policy hierarchy can be separated into four categoriesat European, National, Regional and Local levels. Having identified the appropriate plans andguidelines at the various levels, it is important to evaluate each of these plans and the policieswithin the context of small towns and indicate whether adequate policies are been implemented atall levels for small towns in the region.

9West Regional Authority, Regional Planning Guidelines for the West Region 2010-2022,pg. 12


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2.2.1 European Spatial Development Perspective (ESDP)10

The European Spatial Development Perspective (ESDP) was adopted in May 1999 and with Irelanda member of the European Union, the country is directly affected by EU policy and legislation. Thepublication of the ESDP established a number of spatial development policies that are intended toensure the balanced and sustainable development of the Union territory in accordance with thebasic objectives of community policy, economic and social cohesion, knowledge-based economiccompetiveness and the conservation of diverse natural and cultural resources.

Although it does not justify further Community responsibilities as regards spatial planning, theESDP is a framework for policy guidance to improve cooperation among Community sectoralpolicies which have a significant impact in spatial terms. It is an intergovernmental documentwhich is for guidance and not binding.

The strategic European guidelines include the development of a polycentric urban system tostrengthen partnership between urban and rural areas and promote integrated transport andcommunications concepts. According to the ESDP, the future of urban regions is dependent on acombination of policies including economic competiveness, social cohesion and environmentalquality, as essential characteristics in delivering a sustainability agenda.

The ESDP has three underlying objectives for the territory of the EU. The policy objectives of theESDP are addressed to all those involved in spatial development at the European, national, regionaland local levels. They are as follows:

A) The establishment of a polycentric and balanced urban system.

B) The promotion of integrated transport and communications concepts offering parity of access toinfrastructure and knowledge throughout the Union.

C) The development and conservation of the natural and cultural heritage.

2.2.2 National Spatial Strategy (NSS) 2002-2020 & Update and Outlook Report 201011

The National Spatial Strategy (NSS) is a twenty year planning framework document primarilyaimed at achieving a better balance of social, economic and physical development between theregions of Ireland. In a rural town context, the NSS aims to see vibrant and diversified rural townswhich benefit from local employment options and from the development of their resource potential.

The spatial report also states that in order to sustain small towns in regions, it is necessary toensure that there is appropriate community infrastructure, economic opportunities, leisure andcultural facilities. Furthermore, the NSS identified a number of key policy areas in a spatial contextfor the sustainable growth of key service towns or key urban centres to support the Gatewaysand Hubs in all regions.

10European Commission Website (1999);

http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/sources/docoffic/official/reports/pdf/sum_en.pdf11

Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DoEHLG), National Spatial Strategy 2002-2020 &Update and Outlook Report (2010); website source;http://nss.ie/pdfs/Completea.pdf
http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/sources/docoffic/official/reports/pdf/sum_en.pdfhttp://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/sources/docoffic/official/reports/pdf/sum_en.pdfhttp://nss.ie/pdfs/Completea.pdfhttp://nss.ie/pdfs/Completea.pdfhttp://nss.ie/pdfs/Completea.pdfhttp://nss.ie/pdfs/Completea.pdfhttp://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/sources/docoffic/official/reports/pdf/sum_en.pdf


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The NSS states that:12

In order to achieve balanced regional development, county towns and other supporting townswith rural surroundings are essential to providing county and local scale needs.With a growing population, it is important to accommodate people within the existingsettlements, including towns and villages, whilst focusing on the economic and social strengthsand resources of rural areas will also promoted.

In the West Region, there is one Hub Town (Tuam) and one Linked Hub (Ballina-Castlebar) whichwill support the international role of the Galway Gateway in turn rejuvenating smaller towns andrural areas. A small number of large towns have the potential to become gateways and leaddevelopment in their respective region, i.e. Castlebar/Ballina.

The NSS indicates that the roles for medium sized towns (Gort, Swinford and Boyle), villages andrural areas will act as local capitals providing a range of servi ces and opportunities for

employment. Within the spatial framework of the NSS, rural town potential will draw upon localeconomic strengths, supported by a stronger structure of smaller towns and villages as a focus foreconomic and social activity and residential development.

The NSS also states that:13

In terms of improving infrastructure linkages, regional road networks play an important role inconnecting the main transport corridors to wider rural areas and smaller towns.

The strategy is clear in outlining that a renewed emphasis is needed on the potential role of thesmall town and village structure. This can be achieved through public and private investment inessential services such as water services and the use of local authority powers to tackle blockages

in the supply of development land. It will also be important to improve the attractiveness of townsand villages through community and other activities such as urban and village renewal schemesand urban design initiatives by local authorities.

In October 2010, the Department of Environment, Heritage & Local Government (DoEHLG)produced the National Spatial Strategy (NSS) Update & Outlook Report to re-affirm thecommitment to implementing long-term planning frameworks such as the NSS. The outlook reportoutlines a new set of priorities and objectives, taking into account updated environmental,budgetary and economic challenges. In addition, the report reiterates the importance of the NSS,the challenges remaining and recommended implementation priorities with regard to planninginvestment, regional investment and encouraging more sustainable patterns of urban and ruraldevelopment.

The towns of Gort and Swinford are highlighted in the NSS as key urban centres, whilst Boyle isseen as a key service townsupporting Carrick-on-Shannon, Castlerea and Sligo. The NSS identifiesrural area types and policy responses for towns in all regions. The West Region is identified in theNSS as areas that are changing; areas that are weak; areas that are remote; and areas that areculturally distinct. Each of the three small towns investigated in this study are emphasised in the

12DoEHLG, National Spatial Strategy 2002-2020, DoEHLG, Ireland, pg. 89

13DoEHLG, National Spatial Strategy 2002-2020, DoEHLG, Ireland, pg. 95


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NSS as having Urban Strengthening Opportunityover the twenty year framework plan. The areatype identified in the NSS for the three study towns are illustrated in the Figure 3below:

Figure 3: National Spatial Strategy (NSS) Illustrating Key Rural Towns, Urban Centres & TransportRoutes in the West Region14

14West Regional Authority (2010) Regional Planning Guidelines for the West Region 2010-2020, pg. 13


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2.2.3 National Development Plan (NDP) 2007-2013

The National Development Plan (NDP) 2007-2013 set out a detailed framework for the country,supported by investment in key areas such as infrastructure development, education and training,employment and the promotion of social inclusion. The NDP also made a commitment to supportthe National Spatial Strategy (NSS) in promoting policies to achieve balanced regional developmentthroughout the country. Many key elements of the NDP can be interlinked with key investmentobjectives for small towns to15:-

Decisively tackle structural infrastructural deficits that continue to impact oncompetitiveness, regional development and general quality of life and meet the demands of anincreasing population.Enhance enterprise development, Science, Technology and Innovation, working agetraining and skills provision to improve economic performance, competiveness and ourcapacity to generate new enterprise from indigenous sectors and high added value ForeignDirect Investment (FDI).

Integrate regional development within the National Spatial Strategy framework ofGateway and Hub towns and other service towns to achieve the goals of economic growth in theRegions and provide major investment of the rural economy.Invest in long-term environmental sustainability to achieve the national goal of preservingthe integrity of our natural environment for future generations, as well as meeting internationalclimate change obligations, which involves more balanced, efficient and sustainable use of landresources.Deliver multi-faceted programmes for social inclusion and improvements in the quality oflife across all age groups and among all population cohorts.

Due to significant financial difficulties, many of the original NDP projects earmarked for financial

support have now been excluded as a national funding priority. In November 2011, the Departmentof Public Expenditure and Reform (DoPER) announced a stimulus investment package, namely, theInfrastructure and Capital Investment 2012-2016: Medium Term Exchequer Framework, allocatingpriority funding towards four main components including16:-

Economic Infrastructure - encompassing transport networks, energy provision andtelecommunications capacity.Investment in the Productive Sector and Human Capitalsuch as direct supports for enterprisedevelopment; science, technology and innovation advancement; supports for tourism,agriculture, fisheries and forestry; and capital investment in education infrastructure.Environmental Infrastructure including our waste and water systems and investment forenvironmental sustainability.

Critical Social Investmentsuch as the health service and social housing programmes.

15Border Regional Authority (2010) Planning Guidelines for the Border Region 2010-2022, Section 1.4.3, pg. 7

16 Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DoPER), Infrastructure and Capital Investment 2012-2016:

Medium Term Exchequer Framework(2011), Executive Summary, pg. iii


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2.2.4 West Regional Planning Guidelines (RPGs) 2010-2022

In 2004 the first Regional Planning Guidelines (RPGs) were prepared under the Planning andDevelopment Act 2000 and sought to bring a regional focus to the issues and priorities identified inthe National Spatial Strategy 2002. Each local authority was required to have regard to the RPGsin their planning documents, i.e. their Development Plans and Local Area Plans. (See Figure 4 forlocation of West Regional Authority area).

Figure 4: Location of the West Regional Authority Area17

The review of the 2004 RPGs began in 2009 andrevised Guidelines were made on the 19thOctober2010 for the West Region. In 2010 the Planningand Development (Amendment) Act 2010 wasenacted. This act brought about a change in

previous wording with regard to the RPGs. LocalAuthority Development Plans and Local Area Plansmust now be consistent with the RPGs.

Local authorities within the region have preparedor are preparing evidence-based Core Strategiesto be included in their Development Plans andwhich take account of the population targetsoutlined in the RPGs. At the county level, the localauthority must allocate population targets to theirurban and rural areas staying within the countytarget allocated in the RPGs. From these figures

they can establish the housing land requirement for each town. The housing land requirement isthe land zoned for residential purposes. In order to achieve this, rezoning, dezoning and phasing ofexcess zoned land is required to ensure that serviced lands are utilised and development takesplace in a sequential approach (that is, from the town centre outwards on suitable lands), seeking tomake towns and villages more compact and sustainable.

When Core Strategies have been included in Development Plans, each local authority must thenvary or review their Local Area Plans to ensure they are consistent with the County DevelopmentPlan Core Strategy.

The relevant policies and subsequent objectives within the RPGs affecting small towns in the WestRegion are highlighted below18:

Policies

SPP8: To address infrastructural deficits in the towns and villages outside the Gateway andHub/Linked Hub in order for such a settlement strategy to sustain the rural way of life.

17West Regional Authority (2010) Regional Planning Guidelines for the West Region 2010-2022, pg. 12;

Includes Ordnance Survey Ireland data reproduced under OSi Licence Number 2012/15CCMA/Galway CountyCouncil. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Ordnance Survey Ireland and Government of Ireland copyright Ordnance Survey Ireland 2012. All rights reserved18

West Regional Authority (2010) Regional Planning Guidelines for the West Region 2010-2022, pg. 61-62


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With regard to retail development in small towns, Local Area Plan policies and objectives will needto align with the national Retail Planning Guidelines supporting the role of the town centre as theprinciple retail/commercial area, relying on the sequential approach to focus new retail

development in the town centre, before edge-of, and out-of-town centre developments areconsidered.

The West RPGs 2010-2022 also stresses the need to support the central objective of a town centrefirst approach in the context of the retail hierarchy, and to promote the vitality and viability ofexisting centres. This key objective will jointly support sustainable transport and travel patternsinto the future, an objective less well supported by large out-of-town retail centres.

Protecting and reinforcing the centres retail, commercial and service function is critical tomaintaining a vibrant, diverse and effective town centre. Encouraging high quality designs andfacilitating an appropriate mix of uses also help to ensure that the town centre provides a suitablefocus for creating sustainable communities, quality built environments and public places with highlevels of accessibility, particularly for sustainable modes of travel. Recent flood events will pose a

challenge for continued town centre development.There are three County Development Plans (CDPs) relevant to the three towns in the STS. All of theplans have been prepared in accordance with the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (asamended).

2.2.5 Galway County Development Plan (CDP) 2009-201522

The Galway County Development Plan (CDP) 2009-2015 sets out an overall strategy for the properplanning and sustainable development of the administrative area of County Galway. The 2009 Plan,whilst addressing the local authoritys specific areas of responsibility such as housing,environmental protection, community and social/physical infrastructure it also sets out a longer

term vision for the County which can be developed thereby protecting and enhancing small townsin a sustainable manner. The Development Plan recognises:

Sustainable development as a pattern of resource use that aims to meet the needs of local

people whilst respecting the environment so these needs can be met not only in the present, butin the indefinite future.23

Under the urban and rural development roles, the Galway CDP foresees that for balanceddevelopment to occur in County Galway the role of the Gateway needs to be partnered with a focuson particular development roles for both key urban settlements and rural areas in the county.24

Galway County Council recognises the importance of enhancing small towns and villages and this is

stated in the CDP with a key policy objective to actively plan and manage the areas that surround

22 Galway County Council (2009) Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015; Website source;

http://www.galway.ie/en/Services/Planning/DevelopmentPlans/GalwayCountyDevelopmentPlan2009-2015/CountyDevelopmentPlan2009-2015/23

Galway County Council (2009) Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015,pg. 524

http://www.galway.ie/en/Services/Planning/DevelopmentPlans/GalwayCountyDevelopmentPlan2009-2015/CountyDevelopmentPlan2009-2015/http://www.galway.ie/en/Services/Planning/DevelopmentPlans/GalwayCountyDevelopmentPlan2009-2015/CountyDevelopmentPlan2009-2015/http://www.galway.ie/en/Services/Planning/DevelopmentPlans/GalwayCountyDevelopmentPlan2009-2015/CountyDevelopmentPlan2009-2015/http://www.galway.ie/en/Services/Planning/DevelopmentPlans/GalwayCountyDevelopmentPlan2009-2015/CountyDevelopmentPlan2009-2015/http://www.galway.ie/en/Services/Planning/DevelopmentPlans/GalwayCountyDevelopmentPlan2009-2015/CountyDevelopmentPlan2009-2015/


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many of these towns in association with the Town Councils as they are intrinsically linked to towns

which they surround in both their land use and amenity use. 25

Furthermore, another key policy objective in the Galway CDP is to work in tandem withGovernment Departments and State Agencies in identifying suitable locations for new social

infrastructure such as schools, recreational facilities, health and care facilities, etc in the towns andvillages throughout the county, especially in those rapidly expanding settlements which have struggled

to keep pace with population growth.26

Under the Galway CDP, the town of Gort is highlighted as a Key Townwith a projected additionalpopulation allocation of 820 persons over the plan period from 2009-2016, as varied under theCore Strategy.27A Local Area Plan (LAP) has also been adopted for Gort in May 2006 as a subset ofthe Galway CDP 2009-2015 and is currently being reviewed to supersede the 2006 Gort LAP for theperiod of 2012-2018. (See Section 2.3.2 for a more detailed description of the Gort LAP).

2.2.6 Mayo County Development Plan 2008-201428The Development Plan for County Mayo was adopted in 2008 and was varied in 2011 to meet theCore Strategy and settlement strategy obligations. The Mayo CDP uses the Brundtland definition ofsustainable development which is:-

Development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the

ability of future generations to meet their needs.29

The plan notes that sustainable development is not just about protection of the natural and man-made environment, it is equally about the economy and quality of life and therefore relates tosocial, economic and cultural sustainability and achieving a balance between these three

dimensions.The overall strategy of the Mayo CDP is to:30

Promote population growth towards a projected County population of 143,640 by 2016 and150,800 by 2022 by facilitating sustainable economic and social development, with due regard to

the complimentary role of both urban and rural areas in the overall development of the County. To support the implementation of the hub status of Castlebar/Ballina and Westport as its naturalextension, and to strengthen and enhance the Countys urban structure, in particular the targeted

development of the Key Towns as set out in the Regional Guidelines, and other towns identified by

the Council.

To promote sustainability and vibrancy in rural communities, including small towns and villages.

25Galway County Council (2009) Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015;pg. 2426


Galway County Council (2009) Galway County Development Plan 2009-2015 (Variation 1 of the Core SettlementStrategy), pg. 2628

Mayo County Council (2008) Mayo County Development Plan 2008-2014, website source,http://www.mayococo.ie/en/Planning/DevelopmentPlansandLocalAreaPlans/MayoCountyDevelopmentPlan2008-2014/29

Mayo County Council (2008) Mayo County Development Plan 2008-2014,pg. 930

Mayo County Council (2008) Mayo County Development Plan 2008-2014,pg. 24-25
http://www.mayococo.ie/en/Planning/DevelopmentPlansandLocalAreaPlans/MayoCountyDevelopmentPlan2008-2014/http://www.mayococo.ie/en/Planning/DevelopmentPlansandLocalAreaPlans/MayoCountyDevelopmentPlan2008-2014/http://www.mayococo.ie/en/Planning/DevelopmentPlansandLocalAreaPlans/MayoCountyDevelopmentPlan2008-2014/http://www.mayococo.ie/en/Planning/DevelopmentPlansandLocalAreaPlans/MayoCountyDevelopmentPlan2008-2014/http://www.mayococo.ie/en/Planning/DevelopmentPlansandLocalAreaPlans/MayoCountyDevelopmentPlan2008-2014/


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To promote the future growth and development needs of the County in a sustainable manner, andto ensure that the benefits of economic growth and prosperity are spread to all parts of the

County.

The Development Plan highlights the importance of Key Towns in supporting the Linked Hub ofCastlebar-Ballina. A total of eleven towns are identified and includes the town of Swinford. The CDPstates that in order to realise the potential of Key Towns, public and private investment will berequired in both physical and social infrastructure, including water services, roads connectivity,

telecommunications, energy, development lands, business supporting infrastructure, social and

recreational facilities.31The strategic policies for Key Towns such as Swinford are outlined in thePlan as follows32:-

P/CSS-2.1

To promote and facilitate the growth and sustainable development of the towns of Bal an Mhuirthead

(Belmullet), Ballinrobe, Ballyhaunis, Claremorris, Charlestown, Killala, Kiltimagh, Knock, Louisburgh,Newport and Swinford in their role as Key support towns, with an appropriate range of social andphysical infrastructure, facilities and services, including retail and commercial and enterprise

development, to serve the inhabitants of those towns and their rural hinterlands.

P/CSS-2.3

Promote and support the growth and sustainable development of the towns located along the WesternRail Corridor (Charlestown, Claremorris, Swinford and Killtimagh).

A Local Area Plan (LAP) was adopted for Swinford town in January 2009, as a subset of the MayoCDP 2008-2014 and is in operation for the plan period of 2009-2015. The LAP is currently being

amended in order to be consistent with the Core Strategy within the Mayo CDP. (See Section 2.3.1for a more detailed description of the Swinford LAP).

2.2.7 Roscommon County Development Plan 2008-201433

The Roscommon County Development Plan (CDP) was adopted in 2008. The overarching vision forCounty Roscommonis defined in the CDP as follows:

Roscommon will be a vibrant county with an increased population, an enhanced quality oflife, employment growth, high quality infrastructure and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. The

county will also have a safe, clean environment, a variety of recreational activities and

excellent health and educational facilities, providing equal opportunities for all.34

31Mayo County Council (2008) Mayo County Development Plan 2008-2014,pg. 33

32Mayo County Council (2008) Mayo County Development Plan 2008-2014,pg. 33

33 Roscommon County Council (2008) Roscommon County Development Plan 2008-2014, website source;

http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Services/Planning/County_Development_Plan_2008-2014_and_Variations/County_Development_Plan/Adopted_County_Development_Plan/?pageNumber=134Roscommon County Council (2008) Roscommon County Development Plan 2008-2014,pg. 5
http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Services/Planning/County_Development_Plan_2008-2014_and_Variations/County_Development_Plan/Adopted_County_Development_Plan/?pageNumber=1http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Services/Planning/County_Development_Plan_2008-2014_and_Variations/County_Development_Plan/Adopted_County_Development_Plan/?pageNumber=1http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Services/Planning/County_Development_Plan_2008-2014_and_Variations/County_Development_Plan/Adopted_County_Development_Plan/?pageNumber=1http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Services/Planning/County_Development_Plan_2008-2014_and_Variations/County_Development_Plan/Adopted_County_Development_Plan/?pageNumber=1http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Services/Planning/County_Development_Plan_2008-2014_and_Variations/County_Development_Plan/Adopted_County_Development_Plan/?pageNumber=1


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Figure 7: Aerial Photograph of Swinford Town, Co. Mayo42

* All maps reproduced under licence from Ordnance Survey Ireland Licence No. 2008/10CCMA - Mayo CountyCouncil Ordnance Survey Ireland Government of Ireland

Swinford town is located generally between the 60 and 80 metre low-lying contours on groundwhich rises from the north to the south. A visually prominent, thickly wooded ridge is located to thesouth-east of the town at Brabazon Park, between the N5 road to Charlestown and the R375 road toKilkelly.

Demographic Profile

It is important to note that the most commonly used and accurate tool for identifying population incities, towns and villages is obtained through the Central Statistics Office (CSO) Census data.However, there are limitations with this statistical information for towns in Ireland as the CSO usesboth the Electoral Division (ED) boundaries and Town Census boundaries for calculatingpopulation figures which often differ from Local Area Plan boundaries. It is therefore often morefitting to use the appropriate LAP boundary to calculate populations in towns with the aid of Census2011 data. The final results of Census 2011 were released on April 29 th2012 and include the threesample towns investigated as part of the study.

According to Census 2011 figures, the town of Swinford declined in population from 1,502 (2006)

to 1,435 (2011), which represents a decrease of 67 persons or -4.5%.43The Census 2011 resultsindicate that population levels in Swinford Town have declined back to 2002 levels (See Table 1).Similar trends are witnessed in the Swineford Electoral Division with the population decreasingfrom 2,682 (2006) to 2,622 (2011), which illustrates a decrease of 60 persons or -2.2%.

42Mayo County Council (2009) Swinford Local Area Plan 2009-2015, page (i)

43 Central Statistics Office (CSO), Census 2011 figure for Swinford Town. Website Source;

http://www.cso.ie/px/pxeirestat/Statire/SelectVarVal/saveselections.asp
http://www.cso.ie/px/pxeirestat/Statire/SelectVarVal/saveselections.asphttp://www.cso.ie/px/pxeirestat/Statire/SelectVarVal/saveselections.asphttp://www.cso.ie/px/pxeirestat/Statire/SelectVarVal/saveselections.asp


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The population trends in the County Mayo seem to indicate an imbalance in growth within environsof the three main towns; Castlebar, Westport and Ballina; resulting in lower levels of growththroughout the smaller towns in the County.44

In order to get a comprehensive gauge of population trends in the town a table showing the Censuspopulation from 1971 to 2011 is outlined below:

Table 1: Shows the Population Trends in Swinford Town from 1971-201145

Year 1971 1981 1991 1996 2002 2006 2011

Population 1,105 1,327 1,216 1,386 1,497 1,502 1,435

As illustrated in Table 1, from 1971 to 2011 the population of the town has increased by 330persons which is a percentage increase of 23%. However, County Mayos share of theWest Region

population further declined by -0.5% from 29.8% in 2006 to 29.3% in 2011.In terms of population growth targets, the West Regional Planning Guidelines 2010-2022 set out apopulation increase target of 19,801 persons for County Mayo from 2006 to 2016 and 26,961 from2006 to 2022. The Mayo County Development Plan 2008-2014 sets out specific growth targets forthe various areas in County Mayo.

The proportion of growth allotted to each town within the recently adopted Mayo CountyDevelopment Plan Core Strategy is based on estimated future growth with actual growth ratesexperienced in the most recent inter-censal period to 2006. Thus, based on the existing population of Swinford (1,502 persons), a Core Strategy growth target of some 517 additional persons is to beplanned for by 2016 bringing thepopulation to approximately 2,019 persons.

However, given the growing trend of emigration over the past four years in smaller towns likeSwinford, the population growth targets as set out in the Regional Planning Guidelines and theMayo County Development Plan variation Core Strategy may be too ambitious and may not beachieved.

Town Function & Role

As identified in the Regional Planning Guidelines, Swinford Town is considered a Key Town whichsupports the Linked Hub (Ballina-Castlebar) and provides a number of important functions thatinclude46:-

Market town and local service centre;

Residential centre; andHealth and community centre.

44Mayo County Council (2009) Swinford Local Area Plan 2009-2015, pg. 2

45 CSO (1971-2011) Census figures compiled from Historical Reports, Volume 1 Population. Website source;

http://www.cso.ie/en/census/census20021996resultsandearliercensuses/historicalreports/46

Mayo County Council, Swinford Local Area Plan 2009-2015, pg. 3
http://www.cso.ie/en/census/census20021996resultsandearliercensuses/historicalreports/http://www.cso.ie/en/census/census20021996resultsandearliercensuses/historicalreports/http://www.cso.ie/en/census/census20021996resultsandearliercensuses/historicalreports/


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However, the Mayo County Development Plan and other Council strategies indicate that key townssuch as Swinford will be primarily targeted for population growth in the future by promoting thedevelopment and enhancement of Swinford as a local service town and residential base.

Residential & Commercial Development47

Similar to other towns in the West Region, a significant number of residential dwellings andcommercial units were approved in the period 2004-2009. There have been approximately fourplanning permissions granted for a significant number of residential dwellings within Swinford.There has also been a number of applications granted permission for commercial and lightindustrial units. More recently an application has been granted for a mixed use development on theold Mart site to the south west of the town.

The urban fabric of Swinford is historically rich including key buildings which have been conservedand maintained for modern uses. The Swinford Union Workhouse is one such building, which is

now in use as a hospital, with a Famine Graveyard to its rear. It is also noted that many of thehistoric commercial buildings of architectural merit in Swinford are in a state of disrepair and/orare currently not occupied for any purpose.

Employment Activity48

Traditionally, Swinford has always been a strong commercial town serving a large rural hinterland.Employment is provided by local commercial firms, an American multinational and the agriculturalindustry. The Health Services Executive (HSE) operates Aras Attracta, a residential care facility anda district hospital and day care centre in the town. Mayo County Council has a district office inSwinford responsible for the delivery of a range of local authority services. Planning permissionwas approved for an Industrial Park just off the N5 caters for industrial and retail warehousing.

Figure 8: Image of Local Employment Services in Swinford Town49

47Mayo County Council, Swinford Local Area Plan 2009-2015, pg. 3

48Mayo County Council, Swinford Local Area Plan 2009-2015,pg. 6

49MyLocalNews.ie (2009) Community Forum Website Source;

http://www.mylocalnews.ie/articles/627/7/community-notes-1/swinford-update-22515/
http://www.mylocalnews.ie/articles/627/7/community-notes-1/swinford-update-22515/http://www.mylocalnews.ie/articles/627/7/community-notes-1/swinford-update-22515/http://uk.images.search.yahoo.com/images/view;_ylt=A0PDodv_kn1P0VQA1Y9NBQx.;_ylu=X3oDMTBlMTQ4cGxyBHNlYwNzcgRzbGsDaW1n?back=http://uk.images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?p=swinford+town,+co.+mayo&vm=r&fr=yfp-t-710&tab=organic&ri=3&w=448&h=336&imgurl=www.mylocaltown.ie/userimg/Swinford201006041112824993.jpg&rurl=http://www.mylocaltown.ie/townlocal.php?linkcounty=Mayo&linktown=Swinford&size=44.3+KB&name=Swinford+,+Mayo+Ireland+local+information+.+Swinford+local+information+...&p=swinford+town,+co.+mayo&oid=3dc8557226fdcfe0d99aaa8f263dac31&fr2=&fr=yfp-t-710&rw=swinford+town,+co+mayo&tt=Swinford+,+Mayo+Ireland+local+information+.+Swinford+local+information+...&b=0&ni=48&no=3&tab=organic&ts=&vm=r&sigr=12dut70ob&sigb=13eqk19s4&sigi=11p9p009s&.crumb=kf2bmjElenKhttp://www.mylocalnews.ie/articles/627/7/community-notes-1/swinford-update-22515/


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Assessment of Transport Infrastructure50

The N5, national primary route linking Dublin and Westport, lies to the south of the Swinford Town.There were proposals to build a ring road north of the town as indicated in the Swinford Local AreaPlan 2009-2015. Ireland West Airport Knock is less than 10 km away and the linked hub ofCastlebar-Ballina is approximately 30 km away.

The town is located on the disused Western Rail Corridor linking Mayo with Sligo. The strategiclocation of Swinford on this important north-south axis of the rail network is critical in planning forthe towns growth and improving connectivity to other cities and towns in other regions. Therefore,it has been an objective of Mayo County Council, as per the County Development Plan 2008-2014, toactively seek and support the reinstatement of the Western Rail Corridor. Furthermore, the LAPindicates the importance to secure suitable sites for town centre car parking.

Environmental Considerations51

Designated Ecological Sites

No projects giving rise to significant adverse direct, indirect or secondary impacts on the integrityof Natura 2000 sites having regard to their conservation objectives arising from their size or scale,land take, proximity, resource requirements, emissions (disposal to land, water or air),transportation requirements, duration of construction, operation, decommissioning or from anyother effects shall be permitted on the basis of this Plan (either individually or in combination withother plans or projects).

A plan or project may only be authorised after the competent authority has made certain, based onscientific knowledge, that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site; in the case ofderogations, authorisation must be pursued under Article 6(4).

Western River Basin District Management PlanThe relevant policies and objectives of the Western River Basin District River Basin ManagementPlan are fully integrated into the Swinford LAP.

Derryronan (Swinford) River

Within fifteen months of adopting the Swinford LAP Mayo County Council shall aim to complete astudy on the Derryronan River and its tributaries including: an examination of the current state ofthe river including an identification of any pollution sources, and; measures to mitigate against anypollution in the river.

Waste Water Treatment

The waste water treatment capacity requirements of new development under the Swinford LAPmust not exceed available waste water treatment capacity. In order for permission to be granted fornew developments, there must be sufficient capacity available to appropriately treat the wastewater arising from such developments. In addition, in order for planning permission to be grantedfor new developments planning applications must demonstrate that the new developments will beconnected to the waste water treatment plant collection network.

50Mayo County Council, Swinford Local Area Plan 2009-2015,pg. 9

51Mayo County Council, Swinford Local Area Plan 2009-2015,pg. 36-38


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Its adjacent area catchments are Galway City, Loughrea and Ennis. As an early settlement Gortdeveloped on elevated ground adjacent to the present Market Square (See Figure 10).

Figure 10: Market Square in Gort Town Centre58

The expansion of the town has occurred onrelatively flat, low lying land surrounding theMarket Square. The Cannahowna River, whichmeanders from the south through this land, issubject to occasional flooding and has acted as aconstraint on the development of some areas. Thedisused Limerick-Sligo railway line runs parallel tothe river and this too has tended to act as a physicalbarrier to expansion of the town centre.

Demographic Profile

According to Census 2011 data, the population in Gort declined from 2,734 (2006) to 2,644 (2011),which represents a decrease of 90 persons or -3.3%.59The town of Gort experienced vast growthfrom 1996 to 2006, with a population enlargement of 1,552 persons. However, the town was unableto sustain the high growth patterns of economic development and construction that occurred since2006 and a slowdown in local employment opportunities has lead to out-migration in the town. Inorder to get a comprehensive gauge of population trends in the town a table showing thepopulation from 1971 to 2011 is outlined:

Table 2: Shows the Gort Town Population Trends from 1971-201160

Year 1971 1981 1991 1996 2002 2006 2011

Population 975 1,095 1,093 1,182 1,776 2,734 2,644

As illustrated in Table 2, over a forty year period (1971-2011) the population of the town hasincreased by 1,669 persons, representing a percentage increase of 63%.Similar to all towns, thereare a multitude of factors for the population decline in Gort with an increasing trend of youngerpersons emigrating to international countries seeking better employment opportunities, leaving anaging population which will be detrimental to the town in the long run.

Currently, creating employment opportunities is a major problem across many, if not all, small

towns in the West Region and a focus on the creation of indigenous and international employmentis critical to towns like Gort for the future. The lack of employment opportunities has also reduced

58Galway County Council (2012) Gort Background Issues Paper, Draft LAP 2012-2018, pg. 1

59CSO (2011) Census 2006-2011 figuresfrom website source;

http://www.cso.ie/en/census/census2011reports/census2011populationclassifiedbyareaformerlyvolumeone/60

CSO (2011) Census from 1971-2011 figures from website source ;http://www.cso.ie/px/pxeirestat/Statire/SelectVarVal/saveselections.asp
http://www.cso.ie/en/census/census2011reports/census2011populationclassifiedbyareaformerlyvolumeone/http://www.cso.ie/en/census/census2011reports/census2011populationclassifiedbyareaformerlyvolumeone/http://www.cso.ie/px/pxeirestat/Statire/SelectVarVal/saveselections.asphttp://www.cso.ie/px/pxeirestat/Statire/SelectVarVal/saveselections.asphttp://www.cso.ie/px/pxeirestat/Statire/SelectVarVal/saveselections.asphttp://www.cso.ie/en/census/census2011reports/census2011populationclassifiedbyareaformerlyvolumeone/


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the numbers within the Brazilian community in the town, who have greatly contributed to localeconomy over the past decade.

The West RPGs 2010-2022 set out a population increase target of 15,760 persons for CountyGalway in 2016. However, given the current economic climate it is recognized that populationgrowth targets as set out in the Regional Planning Guidelines and the Galway County DevelopmentPlan Core Strategy targets are ambitious given the population decline from the Census 2011 results.

At local level, the Galway CDP 2009-2015 identifies Gort as a Service Hub which provides anextensive range of services including health, community, financial employment and retail (seeFigure 11 for Land Use Zoning Map). Given this context, sustained population growth over themedium to long term is required in order for Gort to develop an increasing degree of self-sufficiency in the future.

Figure 11: Land Use Zoning Map for Gort Town 2006-201261

* Ordnance Survey Ireland. All rights reserved. Licence No 2003/07CCMA/Galway County Council

61Galway County Council (2006) Gort Local Area Plan 2006-2012, Appendix 5


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Residential Development & Settlement Strategy62

The residential growth experienced within the town in recent years has strengthened the economicbase and made the town a more desirable location in which to live. The West RPGs 2010-2022 andthe Core Strategy of the Galway CDP 2009-2015 has identified Gort as a Key Town in thesettlement hierarchy. The CDP 2009-2015 as varied, assigns a population target of 820 persons for2016 with 23.66 hectares (58.44 acres) required accommodating residential units over the planperiod; and there is an excess of 106.20 hectares (262.4 acres) of undeveloped residential zonedland. In order to achieve this alignment figure, a number of options with regard to existing zoningcan be examined including de-zoning, phasing and re-zoning.

The CDP 2009-2015 Settlement Strategy aims to secure the sustainable growth of key towns suchas Gort. In terms of residential development, this indicates that any new development should followa sequential growth pattern and should integrate into the established surroundings, promotingsocial inclusion, while providing a good range of community and support services in appropriateand accessible locations.

Currently, there is a mixed pattern of residential development in the town with private sectorhouse building taking place in the form of estate developments throughout Gort, particularly in thenorth and south of the town. There have also been several infill developments in the town centreconsisting primarily of apartments and townhouses.

Gort is identified as an important urban settlement on the Galway-Limerick/Shannon AtlanticGateway Corridor Framework. In order to develop the Atlantic Gateway Corridor concept,recommendations from the DoEHLG 2008 Overview Report63 include to accelerate the delivery ofthe Atlantic Road Corridor and Western Rail Corridor (both of which pass through Gort); thedevelopment of key settlements along the route (including Gort) and the management of urbansprawl, careful management of development pressures at major transportation interchanges .64

Employment & Commercial Activity65

Under the Galway CDP 2009-2015, Gort is identified as a Service Hub which indicates that anextensive range of services are provided such as health, employment, community, financial & retail.The IDA manages a business/enterprise park to the west of the town adjacent to the M18motorway. Encouragingly, an established industrial area in the north of the town has been extendedin recent years.

However, with the economic downturn Gort has suffered a number of job losses over recent yearswith formerly established employers such as Duffys meat processing plant and a small cluster oflight engineering enterprises on the outskirts of the town reducing employees. It is necessary tofocus on creating further local employment, particularly within the town boundary however,

incentives may be required to increase the employment base for the skilled and semi-skilledworkforce.

62Galway County Council (2006) Local Area Plan 2006-2012, pg. 11, 24 and 25

63DoEHLG (2008)Atlantic Gateway Corridor Overview Report Website Source;

http://www.irishspatialstrategy.ie/pdfs/Atlantic%20Gateways%20Report%20-%20final%20pdf%20-%20sep06.pdf64

DoEHLG (2008)Atlantic Gateway Corridor Overview Report, pg. 7365

Galway County Council (2006) Local Area Plan 2006-2012, pg. 12
http://www.irishspatialstrategy.ie/pdfs/Atlantic%20Gateways%20Report%20-%20final%20pdf%20-%20sep06.pdfhttp://www.irishspatialstrategy.ie/pdfs/Atlantic%20Gateways%20Report%20-%20final%20pdf%20-%20sep06.pdfhttp://www.irishspatialstrategy.ie/pdfs/Atlantic%20Gateways%20Report%20-%20final%20pdf%20-%20sep06.pdf


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the re-opening of Gort Station as part of the Galway to Limerick rail link. Gort Station was upgradedas part of the re-opening of Phase II between Ennis and Athenry.

Car parking provision in the town is on street and at private developments. However, some localresidents and businesses have expressed dissatisfaction at the introduction of pay and displayparking in the town. The revised Local Area Plan 2012-2016 aims to improve parking managementand develop parking facilities convenient to the town centre.

Furthermore, the revised LAP should recommend that any parking proposals are sensitivelydesigned to integrate into its surroundings. Public transport provision in Gort is provided with aBus ireann service to and from the town hourly as it is on the Galway-Ennis route. It isrecommended that further development of public transportation services are examined in thecontext of a separate project for the area.

Environmental Considerations & Flood Risk Assessment69

The consideration of the natural environment in Gort includes a wide variety features that make anessential contribution to the environmental quality, ecological biodiversity, landscape character,visual amenity, recreational activities, public health and potential to attract investment in the town.There are a number of designated sites of both national and international importance in andadjacent to the town of Gort. Examples include Coole-Garryland Complex Gort is located in thegroundwater and surface water catchment of the Coole-Garryland Turlough and has the potential toimpact on Natura 2000 sites.

Coole Lough and Garryland Wood is a Ramsar (Wetland) site. Turloughs are particularly nutrientsensitive. Coole-Garryland Wood is listed on the Register of Protected Areas as a Species SPA.Coole Lough is classified as 2(a) not at significant risk and the water body is expected to meet goodstatus in 2015. The Irish Geological Heritage organisation identifies the Coole-Garryland Complex

as being of geological importance and the Background Issues Papers for the revised LAP refers tothe need for SEA/AA Screening processes.

Flooding is a challenge for the town, particularly in the town centre (e.g. Crowe Street, thoughengineering works has been carried out). The Issues Paper notes that a County Strategic Flood RiskAssessment is being undertaken and consideration may need to be given (more detailedassessment) on the flood risk zones along the Gort/Cannahowna River.

Community Facilities & Activities70

Social vitality is fundamental to the success of any settlement. Open space, amenities andcommunity facilities play an important role in the development of healthy and sustainable

communities, ensuring a good quality of life, social interaction and social inclusion. Communityinfrastructure includes social, cultural, educational, health, religious and recreational facilities. Theprovision of features for new community facilities, amenities and detail on standards for the designof developments and structures are considered to be key planning and land use considerationsrelating to Gort town.

69Galway County Council (2012) Gort Background Issues Paper for the revised Local Area Plan 2012-2016, pg. 6-7

70Galway County Council (2012) Gort Local Area Plan 2006-2012, pg. 13


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The primary role of the Planning Authority regarding social and community infrastructure is theprovision of the planning framework in the County Development Plan and more specifically withinthe Local Area Plan. This includes the zoning of sufficient lands at appropriate locations, to

accommodate educational, community, leisure and recreational facilities along with providing thepolicies and objectives in the Plan which support and facilitate future quality developments of thiskind.

2.3.4 Boyle Local Area Plan (LAP) 2012-201871

The main aim of this LAP for Boyle is to set out a framework for the physical development of Boyleso that growth may take place in a co-ordinated, sensitive and orderly manner, while at the sametime conserving the areas built and natural heritage.

Location of Boyle Town72

Boyle (Mainistir na Bille) is located in North County Roscommon, 38km from Roscommon Town,15km from Carrick-on-Shannon and 40km from Sligo (see Figure 13 for location map on the nextpage). The town boundary area is in a strategic location and the ease of accessibility is a keyadvantage. Boyle has a modern primary road and rail network that connects it to all the major citiesand towns in Ireland.

It is served by the N4 National Primary Route between Westport and Dublin and the N61 NationalSecondary Route to Roscommon town. Boyle is also on the main Dublin/Sligo rail line with six trainservices per day, and is within a two hour drive of five airports. Boyle Harbour forms part of theShannon-Erne Waterway and is only a ten minute walk from Boyle Town. From Boyle Harbour it ispossible to navigate to the sea at Limerick, to the sea at New Ross in County Wexford (via the GrandCanal and Barrow Navigation) or to Dublin along Grand Canal.

71Roscommon County Council (2012) Copy of Boyle Local Area Plan 2012-2018 Website Source;

http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Services/Planning/Local_Area_Plans_2012-2018/Boyle_Local_Area_Plan_2012-2018_-_Final/72

Roscommon County Council (2012) Boyle Local Area Plan 2012-2018, pg. 5
http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Services/Planning/Local_Area_Plans_2012-2018/Boyle_Local_Area_Plan_2012-2018_-_Final/http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Services/Planning/Local_Area_Plans_2012-2018/Boyle_Local_Area_Plan_2012-2018_-_Final/http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Services/Planning/Local_Area_Plans_2012-2018/Boyle_Local_Area_Plan_2012-2018_-_Final/http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Services/Planning/Local_Area_Plans_2012-2018/Boyle_Local_Area_Plan_2012-2018_-_Final/http://www.roscommoncoco.ie/en/Services/Planning/Local_Area_Plans_2012-2018/Boyle_Local_Area_Plan_2012-2018_-_Final/


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Figure 13: Shows an Ordnance Survey Map & Location Map of Boyle Town73

* Includes Ordnance Survey Ireland data reproduced under OSi Licence Number 2010/18CCMA/Roscommon CountyCouncil. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Ordnance Survey Ireland and Government of Ireland copyright. Ordnance Survey Ireland, 2012. All rights reserved.

Demographic Profile74

According to the Census 2011 figures, over the period from 2006-2011, the population of CountyRoscommon has increased by 8.3%. The 2002 Census indicated a population of 53,774 persons,which increased to 64,065 persons as per the 2011 Census results. The town of Boyle lies within theBoyle Urban Electoral Division (UED), which showed an overall percentage population decline from1,643 to 1,599 (-2.7%) between Census 2002-2006 and as indicated by 2011 Census figure hasfurther declined to 1,459 persons (-8.5%) between 2006-2011. However, in order to give a holisticanalysis of the population trends in Boyle, Table 3 illustrates the population in Boyle UED from1971 to 2011.

Table 3: Shows the Population figures from 1971-2011 in Boyle75

Year 1971 1981 1991 1996 2002 2006 2011

Population 1,727 1,737 1,695 1,690 1,643 1,599 1,459

The 2011 Census Town Boundary (including the suburbs and environs), encompassing a total areaof 11 sq. km, is similar in terms of extent to the Boyle LAP 2008-2014 boundary, comprising themajority of residential development within the town boundary area. It appears to be a reliable

measure of the actual town population given its close relationship to the Boyle LAP boundary. Itindicates a population of 2,588people (2011), which is a marked increase from the 2006 figure of2,522, showing a percentage increase of 2.6%.

73Roscommon County Council (2011) Boyle Local Area Plan 2012-2018, pg. 5


75 CSO (1971-2011) Census figures compiled from Historical Reports, Volume 1 Population. Website source;

http://www.cso.ie/en/census/census20021996resultsandearliercensuses/historicalreports/
http://www.cso.ie/en/census/census20021996resultsandearliercensuses/historicalreports/http://www.cso.ie/en/census/census20021996resultsandearliercensuses/historicalreports/http://www.cso.ie/en/census/census20021996resultsandearliercensuses/historicalreports/


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County Roscommon, for example, Boyle to Sligo; and transportation linkages should bestrengthened between these areas and to the County Town.

Commercial Development & Employment Activity78

A key development area has also been identified for Business Enterprise Park/Light Industry. RCCis committed to attracting industry to County Roscommon and recognises the importance ofBusiness Enterprise Parks/Light Industry in terms of employment creation, and the economic andsocial development of Boyle. Whilst the LAP cannot directly influence future industrial andcommercial development, it can adopt a plan-led approach by, for example, ensuring that sufficientand appropriate land is zoned and available for industrial and commercial development. Reservingland for light industry, warehousing, enterprise units and ancillary uses such as training, education,childcare, financial, and recycling facilities are examples of appropriate uses in this area.

Employment is primarily generated in the areas, for example; small shops, supermarkets, solicitors

offices, insurance brokers, and betting offices, amongst many others. Whilst Boyle acts as a localservice centre for the surrounding rural hinterland, there is insufficient indigenous employment forresidents of the town at present. It is widely acknowledged that Boyle lacks an industrial base,despite having an educated workforce. Employment generating uses in Boyle are critical toreaddressing the balance of development that has taken place.

The area has experienced significant population growth and should be in a position to capitalise onthe available skilled workforce. There is a need to encourage entrepreneurship with assistancefrom support agencies such as the IDA, Enterprise Ireland and the Enterprise Board. In addition tothe commercial/retail and industrial lands included on the land use zoning map, flexible policiesand objectives are also included in this LAP, which demonstrate RCCs commitment to assisting andfacilitating in the creation of additional employment for Boyle.

It is considered that renewed emphasis is required on the creation of long-term sustainableemployment in Boyle, particularly in tourism, industry (production and manufacturing) and theservice industry. There is considerable potential for growth in the service industry in Boyle town interms of the level and range of service provision in areas such as leisure, retail and restaurants.

Assessment of Transport Infrastructure & Services79

A safe and efficient road and transport system is a vital component in improving the attractivenessof the area for the development of industry and employment generation. Residents in Boyle supportdevelopment in areas that reduce the need to travel, are in close proximity to the national andregional road network, have essential services and transport facilities, and encourages moresustainable forms of transport such as walking, cycling and public transport.

The proposed N61 Boyle Town Bypass to the south east of the town, linking the N4 to the N61 willprovide a vital strategic link for the south of Boyle town, and indeed Roscommon County & to theNorth-West of the country. In addition, the bypass will provide an efficient link for Dublin/Sligobound traffic from the south of Boyle town. Furthermore, increased accessibility will help reducethe traffic flow within the town. The N61 Athlone to Boyle project involves the upgrading of the


79Roscommon County Council (2012) Boyle Local Area Plan 2012-2018, pg. 23-26


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N61 national secondary route between Boyle and Athlone, a mainline length of 75km. Progressionof this scheme through the planning phases has however been suspended.

Boyle town has easy access onto the N4 National Primary Route (Dublin to Sligo), with the N61providing the north-western link to the N4. Boyle town center is on the N61 National Secondaryroute which links; Athlone, Roscommon and Boyle. The R294 Regional Road is the other mainarterial road through the centre of the town, linking the N4 from the East, to the West of the townand onto Ballina.

There are also a number of private operators running bus services in the area. Boyle is served bythe Rural Transport Initiative, with links to the greater Boyle rural area as well as the Carrick-on-Shannon

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