As governments around the world shift their focus towards sustainable development, The National Development Plan 2018-2027 for Ireland outlines a comprehensive strategy for driving economic, environmental, and social progress over the next decade. This ambitious plan aims to guide the spatial planning of the country and influence policies related to jobs, businesses, housing, transport, infrastructure, and social and cultural amenities. By committing approximately €116 billion to support the National Planning Framework, the Plan seeks to achieve each of its ten national strategic outcomes and ensure the long-term sustainability of Ireland’s economy, society, and environment.
The Plan acknowledges the projected growth in Ireland’s population and the challenges involved in managing the spatial distribution of people while maintaining economic growth and social cohesion. One of the main themes of the Plan is the need for integrated spatial planning to address the issues of urban sprawl, housing, transportation, and climate change. It emphasizes the importance of investment and flexible policies in responding to future challenges.
The Plan delineates the specific investment and strategic priorities required to realize each of the ten national strategic outcomes, which include economic and social development, climate action, and sustainable infrastructure, among others. Public capital investment of €91 billion will be allocated to support national development, supplemented by substantial investment from commercial state-owned enterprises. This level of investment is expected to move Ireland to the top of the international league table for public investment, with the potential to transform everyday living experiences.
Overall, The National Development Plan 2018-2027 sets out an ambitious strategy to guide the spatial planning of the country and impact almost every aspect of people’s lives. By prioritizing sustainable development and investing in infrastructure and strategic priorities, the Plan aims to create a new model of physical development that can drive substantial progress in economic, social, and environmental terms. This makes the Plan a significant reference point for professionals and enthusiasts in the field of Heritage who are concerned about sustainability, spatial planning, and socio-economic development.
