Review to Renew the public consultation of the Review of the National Development Plan - Cork Chamber
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RE VIE W TO RENE W - THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION OF THE RE VIE W OF THE NATIONAL DE VELOPMENT PL AN
Review to Renew
the public consultation of
the Review of the National
Development Plan
Submission | February 19, 2021
2 CORK CHAMBER SUBMISSION RE VIE W TO RENE W - THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION OF THE RE VIE W OF THE NATIONAL DE VELOPMENT PL AN 3
Introduction
Cork Chamber is the leading business representative organisation in Cork, This commitment is supplemented and further developed through our Sustainable Cork Programme (SCP)
which focusses on the sustainable and resilient recovery of the Irish economy and society in the short
proactively working to identify and progress developments that are facilitative to medium term, but also the longer term as we transition to a low to zero carbon society. Developed
of sustainable economic development. in considerable detail through significant member and community engagement, the Building Economic
Resilience report1 sets forth a strong and sustainable vision for the future of Cork and clearly indicates the
Representing an employer base of close to 1,200 businesses and over 100,000 employees across the appetite of the business community to engage and be progressive in addressing social and environmental
region, Cork Chamber is the largest business representation organisation in the south of Ireland. At the concerns and identifying the pivotal infrastructure needed to enable and advance the sustainable
outset we take this opportunity to strongly urge the continued commitment from Government to the development of the region. It is the role of Government to enable this ambition.
delivery on the objectives of the National Development Plan. The need for investment now and the
The following graphic illustrates the clarity of vision displayed in the findings of the SCP Building
continued delivery of enabling economic and social infrastructure, that addresses national imbalances,
Economic Resilience Report.
and years of underinvestment, which supports a shift in our national carbon profile to dramatically
reducing greenhouse gas emissions, will define our collective futures and those of future generations.
The National Development Plan has the potential to be transformational, and we must take this
Your Top 3 asks for what The differentiators for
opportunity to embed the strong foundations for a future that aligns seamlessly with the sustainable
development goals.
you want to see more of living and working in Cork
This submission has been guided by our commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Five specific goals have been identified which we actively advocate for throughout our work;
in the next 5 years:
1.
57%
Connected public transport
networks (bus, light rail, and
suburban rail) Quality of life
2.
Cycleways, greenways &
enhanced walking environment
42%
The tourism, cultural
& hospitality scene
3. (café, theatre, gallery,
Green spaces, trees, wildflower restaurants, heritage)
planting & green infrastructure
such as living walls
34%
Diverse business types &
This is followed by more outdoor dining,
activities (from indigenous
amenity access to the river and coastline from
home grown to large
Cork City, enhanced resourcing for An Garda
multinational)
Síochána for urban centres.
1 https://www.corkchamber.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Sustainable-Cork-Programme-Building-Economic-Resilience.pdf
4 CORK CHAMBER SUBMISSION RE VIE W TO RENE W - THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION OF THE RE VIE W OF THE NATIONAL DE VELOPMENT PL AN 5
Review of the National
Development Plan
Is the overall level of Rationale What should the capital • International connectivity from the Port of
Cork continues to grow with new routes to
public spending on capital Failure to invest appropriately, will lead to serious budget be spent on? the US, Belgium and France proving market
capacity constraints that will damage economic demand. Investment in Customs and Border
investment correct? resilience and recovery. There are significant infrastructure at the Port would deliver a major
infrastructural deficits resulting from the previous Answer boost in operational potential as new patterns
approach to austerity. There is also significant continue to be established post EU-UK TCA.
Answer economic stimulus associated with capital
If Cork is to remain globally competitive and
fulfil it’s role nationally as set out in the National • The viability of apartments continues to be
In the wake of the current pandemic, and the expenditure, providing the most proactive and
Planning Framework, significant Government a major challenge for the delivery of density
infrastructural deficit created by the severe legacy inducing form of government support
investment in areas from the Cork Metropolitan targets set out in Ireland 2040. The lack of
austerity measures triggered by the 2008 available.
Area Transport Strategy, to regional & viability of apartments continues to be a
economic crash, it is essential that investment international connectivity, housing, health, culture,
If Cork is to remain globally competitive and major challenge for the delivery of density
in capital projects continues to be increased education & innovation, energy, water, resilience,
fulfil it’s role nationally, significant Government targets set out in Ireland 2040, consigning the
to meet capacity constraints and to realise the climate mitigation, URDF & RRDF will be required.
investment in areas from the Cork Metropolitan region exclusively to reliance on lower density
full potential of Cork, as set out in the National
Area Transport Strategy, to regional & models of development. It is also a significant
Planning Framework2, RSES3 and Cork 2050, the • The Cork Metropolitan Area Transport
international connectivity, housing, health, culture, economic inhibitor, damaging talent attraction,
complementary vision set by Cork stakeholders.4 Strategy5 will deliver multi modal connectivity
education, energy, water, climate mitigation, URDF regeneration and the quality of life appeal
Capital investment must be directed to regional that is fit for purpose for a contemporary
& RRDF will be required. of the region. A Cork Chamber report, from
growth centres, and be reflective in level of metropolitan area. It is essential that all
July 2020 centring on economic recovery,
investment to the current scale and future growth Priority given to capital expenditure would streams are progressed with urgency through
presents quality of life as the characteristic
projections set out in national policy. also support the NPF objective of delivering design and planning, enabling timely final
that will define the future of Cork.6 The lack of
infrastructure led development. This approach investment decisions as each project progresses
It is the role of Government to gauge the level apartment viability is documented alongside
would provide Ireland with an opportunity to apply successfully. Intensity of approach across
of national spend that is appropriate relevant a range of solutions in an EY-DKM report
international best practice to the development all streams of CMATS is required to ensure
to barometers such as sovereign credit ratings. commissioned by CIF Southern Region and
of our cities and towns as attractive places to adequate levels of delivery.
However, Cork Chamber recommends that the Cork Chamber.7 Integrating the concept of
live. In 2018 Ireland had one of the lowest compact growth into all investment decisions
most ambitious approach is taken to capital • Regional connectivity still bears the scars of
public spending to GDP ratios in the OECD will improve quality of life and help to address
investment spending. austerity. The M28, N22, Dunkettle Interchange,
spend per capita behind the average for the climate action.
N25 and M20 route corridors must all be
EU. We must move apace not only to correct for
significantly improved in capacity, not soley Housing commitments such as Help to Buy
previous austerity, but to keep pace with ongoing
for private vehicles but in terms of multimodal and Shared Ownership must continue to be
international capital spend profiles.
connectivity also. pursued. LIHAF has delivered for Cork and
equivalent models should be retained and
• International connectivity from Cork Airport enhanced.
has been severely curtailed by the pandemic.
Significant capital investment is required to
ensure that the infrastructure, including the
runway is poised for the return of significant
volume. Research tells us that full recovery
will take up to five years in the sector and
Cork Airport must be supported by multi-year
operational and capitals supports under the
Regional Airports Capex Programme.
2 https://npf.ie/ 5 https://www.nationaltransport.ie/planning-and-investment/strategic-planning/regional-transport-strategies/cork-metropolitan-
3 https://www.southernassembly.ie/regional-planning/regional-spatial-and-economic-strategy area-transport-strategy/
4 https://www.corkcoco.ie/sites/default/files/2017-08/Cork%202050%20Main%20Report.pdf 6 https://www.corkchamber.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/10793-Anaerobic-Digestion-report_final.pdf
7 https://www.corkchamber.ie/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Viability-and-Affordability-of-Apartment-Building-in-Cork-City.pdf
6 CORK CHAMBER SUBMISSION RE VIE W TO RENE W - THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION OF THE RE VIE W OF THE NATIONAL DE VELOPMENT PL AN 7
• The Urban Regeneration and Development • There should be discretion for adding creative • At primary and second level the funding • The recommendations of the Cork Harbour
Fund and the Rural Regeneration and and innovative new projects to the scope of currently provided to meet additional school 2025 Ready to Float Offshore Wind should be
Development Fund must be strengthened the NDP. Outdoor, quality of life-oriented accommodation is insufficient. As result, it is the implemented by supporting Cork as a strategic
further and align to the National Planning infrastructure is increasingly important. For norm that new schools are opened in temporary hub for floating offshore wind and accelerating
Framework, delivering proportionately for the example, in Cork, there is a growing body of accommodation. The NDP should commit development of floating offshore wind farms.13
vision set for Cork. The mechanism for funding support for a lido or outdoor swimming baths. additional funds to the building of schools. For
must provide stronger multiannual commitment Public outdoor baths were once a focal point example, Cork ETB is dealing with areas where • National, and international energy transmission
and certainty. of culture and community in the city, and now the level of accommodation is significantly infrastructure investment such as the Celtic
that demand has returned. Feasibility and insufficient in East Cork, Ballincollig, Bandon Interconnector will continue to be essential.
• The provision of water infrastructure, both in conceptual support should be on offer for this and Buttevant.
terms of supply, and wastewater management, • The rollout of the National Broadband Plan is
or other initiatives and the multiple benefits welcome and essential in the context of the
is a significant inhibiting factor in the rollout of they would bring to amenity, civic pride and • Research and Development funding must
multiple infrastructural ventures from housing to be increased to 2.5% of GNP as set out in pandemic and shift in working preferences that
quality of life. will ensue. The delivery speed of the NBP in
industry in Cork. Investment must be targeted Innovation 2020, and the prioritisation of a
in growth areas with clear plans and timelines • Further Education and Training requires replacement strategy, and implementation Cork should be increased to meet this demand.
set out. It is essential not only for development, significant capital investment in the programme as this expires.10 Certain sections of the central business district
but for the environmental and amenity assets of infrastructure for apprenticeships, which is of Cork are not covered by high quality fibre
our rivers, lakes and unrivalled harbour. currently at capacity, and expects a significant • Support for capital projects critical to the long- connectivity and this must be addressed. Fine
increase. Capital investment for online delivery, term competitiveness of the MTU and UCC, grain appraisal of this urban connectivity must
• With population growth and population aging, to support individuals and communities including the UCC Business School, Tyndall, be undertaken and addressed in the context of
the necessity for significant health infrastructure where access (physical) to Further and Higher the sports facilities at the MTU Bishopstown overall national broadband provision.
is certain. Commitment to a new elective Education should be improved. Campus must be strengthened in line with
hospital and acute hospital in Cork must be the planned growth and ambition of each • Support the implementation of the IDA Ireland
strengthened and progressed with urgency. • Capital funding to support the development institution. Strategic Plan alignment to Ireland 2040 by
of the FET College model as set out in the providing further strategic employment sites in
• Culture and creativity remain deeply intertwined National Further Education and Training • Cork is home to Ireland’s Energy cluster, Energy Cork.
with innovation, quality of life, mental health Strategy8, through investment in existing and Cork11 and has significant potential to develop
and civic pride. The commitments to the further. National policy should support the • Continue to support and strengthen the
new FET facilities is required. Regional Enterprise Fund.
Cork Event Centre, Crawford Art Gallery, deepening of ambition for this energy cluster
and to creative funds and supports must be • The current level of funding is not sufficient and support the significant growth potential
strengthened as the sector will play a significant for additional accommodation at both primary of renewables such as floating offshore wind Rationale
role not only economically, but psychologically and secondary level. The overall demographic anaerobic digestion12, green hydrogen, solar
as we seek positivity and inspiration on the road peak is currently passing through the post PV and wind which have potential to generate Cork is the fastest growing region in Ireland as set
to recovery. primary system and will reach a peak in 20259. significant economic value and employment, out in the National Planning Framework. To invest
This combines with a major shift in the location and contribute immeasurably to the sustainable in Cork is to ensure the success of the Planning
of the population towards larger urban areas credentials of the region and nationally. The Framework and the success of the economic
leading to acute demand. recent public consultation on a Microgeneration driver of the Southern region. Conversely, failure
Subsidy Scheme for Ireland has the potential to align capital investment with the region, would
to be a crucial step in achieving the target of severely undermine the Planning Framework, and
70% renewable electricity by 2030 set out in the damage the potential of the region to deliver on
2019 Climate Action Plan. It is crucial that an it’s national role.
ambitious scheme is delivered.
8 https://www.solas.ie/f/70398/x/64d0718c9e/solas_fet_strategy_web.pdf 10 https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/7287b-innovation-2020/
9 https://assets.gov.ie/36601/25e3ce496dd64dfaa986d7105f2a5cb1.pdf 11 http://www.energycork.ie/
12 https://www.corkchamber.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/10793-Anaerobic-Digestion-report_final.pdf
13 https://www.corkchamber.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Cork-Harbour-2025-Ready-to-Float-Offshore-Wind.pdf
8 CORK CHAMBER SUBMISSION RE VIE W TO RENE W - THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION OF THE RE VIE W OF THE NATIONAL DE VELOPMENT PL AN 9
What types of capital • Local Authorities should receive a multi-annual
capital envelope to ensure a more streamlined,
• Regional private sector and senior Government
representation on the Ireland 2040 delivery
In the wake of the current pandemic, it is critical
to ensure that delivery is the focal point, with all
investment should be consistent and certain planning and board. associated processes and mechanisms open to
procurement process. The current application further streamlining and urgency. Lack of delivery
prioritised? process to central Government Departments • Emphasis on planned and infrastructure led will damage confidence in the whole of the Ireland
for capital investment projects can be slow, development. 2040.
uncertain and lacks certainty.
Answer
• Multiannual commitment for significant
Rationale Rationale:
Capital investment across all sectors should be
projects. For example, for the docklands to To ensure clarity, certainty, support and capacity
aligned to the growth centres set out in Ireland NA
reach its potential the URDF would benefit from for delivery.
2040.
significant total commitment on a staggered
investment basis.
Rationale • Use of PPP models for appropriate projects.
How is the NDP is affecting What is your feedback
To successfully deliver on the national planning
framework and all aligned national and local
• Ensure alignment with the National Planning your region? on Project Ireland 2040
Framework and the regional centres identified.
Government policy. communications?
• Alignment of investment priorities of
Infrastructure Delivery Agencies.
Answer
• Visibility of the location (region) where the
In alignment with the National Planning Answer
Framework, the NDP provides spatial and
How can the management money is being spent.
investment policy certainty to the region,
It is essential that Ireland 2040, the National
Planning Framework and the National
and governance of public • Alignment of all investment with the United creating a predictable environment in which
Development Plan, are committed to thoroughly
Nations Sustainable Development Goals. built environment and commercial investment
investment be improved? decisions can be made. With further momentum,
by the current and successive Governments.
• Alignment of all investment with a positive It is the job of each Government to deliver on
refinement, expansion and precision it can deliver
outcome in the Happiness Index ranking milestones for the vision set forth for Ireland in
for the region.
Answer through the setting and reporting on a 2040.
progressive set of national societal wellbeing However, delivery of significant NDP projects to
• Periodical quarterly review and assessment of Acknowledging impediments to the vison
indicators. date has been frustrated by planning processes
capital investment in line with national policy. of Ireland 2040, such as brownfield viability,
which have delayed projects and by piecemeal
• Consideration of climate change, extreme planning and funding mechanisms, in parallel with
funding application and decision-making
• Ensuring transparency of timelines and funding weather events, and future pandemics in implementing solutions is fundamentally important
processes.
gateways. infrastructural planning and design. to communications, confidence and support for
The effects of prior approaches to austerity are Ireland 2040. Without this the credibility of the
• Seeking the best possible outcome in public still causing capacity constraints. For example, plan will be undermined over time.
procurement rather than being defined by the significant investment in Cork, in projects such as
lowest possible price. the N22 and Dunkettle Interchange are now only
commencing, following more than a decade of
anaemic regional investment.
10 CORK CHAMBER SUBMISSION RE VIE W TO RENE W - THE PUBLIC CONSULTATION OF THE RE VIE W OF THE NATIONAL DE VELOPMENT PL AN 11
Stronger engagement with business groups
such as Chambers is essential to effectively
Is there anything else you Cork’s Metropolitan area has a population of
305,000 at the 2016 census and population
Rationale
communicate the merits of planned capital would like to add? growth has accelerated. It is the only regional It is clear that a significant shift to multi modal is
investment and spatial planning alignment set out urban centre of this scale and therefore should required and that significant investment in CMATS
in Ireland 2040. be prioritised for infrastructural investment. In and strategic transport corridors will ensure that
Answer our view the investments identified in the Cork Cork meets demand and is globally competitive
The maintenance of an active and detailed project Metropolitan Area Transport Study and those across the diversity of transport modes required
tracker is essential to certainty and transparency.14 The 2:1 public transport spend ratio identified in
in the National Development Plan must be for a functioning, thriving, contemporary city
the Programme for Government15 offers a great
accelerated. region.
opportunity for Cork in terms of the progression
Rationale of long-standing strategic roads projects, and It is also clear that long standing strategic road
The alignment of a national planning framework, the commitment to the Cork Metropolitan Area projects play a critical role in a functional multi
made strong by a national development plan, Transport Strategy, which includes rail, light rail, modal region. The M28 for example, not only Conclusion
regional economic and spatial strategies, and local bus connects, cycle, greenway, and pedestrian unlocks the potential of the Port of Cork and IDA
authority development plans, each backed by investment. lands, but unlocks the city docklands and Tivoli Cork Chamber strongly supports the broad-
statutory instruments and established protocols for high density brownfield regeneration. The ranging and positive economic, societal, and
It is clear that all new projects must incorporate
offers a stability and tenacity of vision that is quite M20 corridor upgrade will support multimodal environmental impacts of the delivery of the
multi modal elements, to meet with dynamic user
unique internationally. It creates a stable and transport connecting Ireland’s second and third National Development Plan.
preferences and climate obligations.
predictable environment for investment. largest city regions, while removing intense traffic
The Cork region has been one of the fastest levels and HGV’s from town centres along the We believe that the proactive engagement with
With the right Government interventions to existing route. the business community can be instrumental to
growing regions in the state in terms of population
provide market confidence and project viability, in facilitate fully representative discussions of future
and employment growth over the last 20 years.
parallel with a strong private sector, there is every Following European examples of urbanism it pathways and actions that are informed via ground
Between 1996-2016 the population of Cork
reason for delivery to be successful. must be acknowledged the role that certain types up engagement.
has grown by 122,000 people. Unfortunately
of road projects can play in developing a more
It is essential that the vision and delivery of this investment in transport and water services
sustainable urban environment by facilitating the
vision is carefully and relentlessly communicated infrastructure in particular has not kept pace
relocation of Ports and associated heavy goods
in a clear manner to ensure stakeholder with this level of growth and therefore in the
vehicles, the construction of ring roads to facilitate
understanding, support and success. prioritisation of projects the analysis of projects
the removal of trucks and other heavy goods
must include an analysis of the historical as
vehicles from the City Centre which in turn creates
well current infrastructural spending profiles.
the space for large scale urban regeneration, the
A prioritisation analysis of the spending
construction of parks, cycle ways and other active
Departments must also align with the aims of the
travel measures.
National Planning Framework to develop a major
urban centre outside of Dublin that can act as a
counterbalance.
14 https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/6db7c4-investment-projects-and-programmes-tracker/
15 https://assets.gov.ie/94092/50f892b9-a93e-43fc-81d1-778ff9954d9f.pdf
CORK CHAMBER SUBMISSION Fitzgerald House, Summerhill North, Cork, T23 TD90, Ireland. T +353 (021) 4509044 E info@corkchamber.ie CorkChamber.ie
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