Docks and CIE lands essential for Galway’s economic vitality, says city centre masterplan

The regeneration of Ceannt Station and Galway Port have been identified as key to the development of the city centre and securing its future as a ‘hub of public life’ in the Draft City Development Plan for the next seven years.

The City Council is expecting an increased demand in the amount of retail space in the city by more than one-third over the next seven years.

However, the local authority has not proposed that there is an increased need for additional zoned retail lands.

According to the just-published Draft City Development Plan 2017-23, the use of the Docks and CIE lands for residential and redevelopment is essential for the city’s economic vitality.

“In addition to focusing on additional floorspace requirements, there is a need to direct major expansion in retail development into the city centre with a lesser focus on the district centres.

“This approach supports retaining the city centre as the prime retail area, it acts to reinforce the function of the city centre as the hub of public life in Galway and it allows for consolidation of a compact core.

“It helps ensure a diverse and dynamic service provision which enhances the attractiveness of the core area for citizens and visitors alike.

“This approach also supports the objectives for re-use of historic buildings and regeneration on key sites in the city centre, in particular Ceannt Station and the Inner harbour area. This represents sustainable use of land.

“The extension of retailing to the regeneration areas would bring huge value and vitality through the additional footfall that the development on this area would attract and would also facilitate the co-location of retail, commercial enterprise and residential uses.

“The city centre, too, is where the greatest investment in public transport exists, already having the benefit of extensive bus and rail services and being the focus of the Integrated Transport Management Programme for sustainable modes in particular, therefore, this approach would support the smarter travel agenda and help address climate change.

“In advance of specific proposals for development, a Masterplan will be prepared for the overall site which will address the critical issues that will contribute to making this area a successful place.

“In general, the Masterplan will set out proposals for buildings, spaces, movement, and land use. It will include for a delivery of transport requirements, determine the relationship between buildings and public spaces, and show how connectivity will be achieved.

For more, read this week’s Galway City Tribune.