10.0 Degree of Fit with National Policies

Policy Context

The NDP 2007-2013 states that balanced regional development means supporting the economic and social development of all regions in their efforts to achieve their full potential. In delivering on its objectives, interventions will ensure that each Gateway region maximises its potential for economic and social development, achieve a better balance between the regions and foster enhance co-ordination in the development of the Gateways. The plan recognises the challenges faced by Sligo and highlights the key development issues and investment requirements over the life of the plan. The elements contained within this GIF submission addresses many of the requirements as set out in the plan including:

• New eastern and western urban distribution road routes to open up strategic land banks for accelerated development of new private housing.
• Development of regional sports and recreational facilities.
• Continued development of the emerging cultural and entertainment quarter.
• Targeted urban renewal including urban enhancement and pedestrianisation.
• These developments are supported through targeted programmes of Town Centre Management, enterprise development and implementation of targeted land use and planning strategies to deliver the desired critical mass.

The NSS 2002-2020

The NSS sets out the vision and strategic framework for achieving sustainable and balanced regional development in Ireland. Its policy framework embraces both urban and rural areas in developing the full potential of each area to contribute to the optimal performance of the State as a whole – economically, socially and environmentally. Within the NSS Sligo is identified as an urban centre to be developed in an accelerated manner as a Gateway City to drive the overall development of the North-West. The Sligo and Environs Development Plan 2004-2010 has set the framework for Sligo City as envisaged by the NSS. All projects within this proposal are an integral part of the Sligo and Environs Development Plan.

At a Cross-border Level…

Northern Ireland – “Shaping our Future”

Shaping our Future is a Regional Development Strategy which offers a strategic and long-term perspective on the future development of Northern Ireland up to the year 2025. It focuses on the region and how it relates to, and integrates with, the wider global environment and economy. Through involvement in strong cross-border partnerships Sligo Local Authorities have aligned themselves to the strategies as set out in Shaping our Future. The potential benefits include the attention to delivery of key cross border infrastructure and economic development potential which will strengthen Sligo’s position within the region.

At Regional Level…

Regional Planning Guidelines (RPG’s)

The objective of the Regional Planning Guidelines is to provide a long-term strategic planning framework for the region. Delivery of the strategic planning approach set out in the guidelines support the achievement of the NSS at a regional level and contains cross County strategic policy directions. The Sligo and Environs Plan meets the criteria as set out in the RPG’s. All proposals within the GIF submission are embedded within the SEDP.

The Border Midland and Western (BMW) Operational Programme 2007-2013.

The objective of the BMW strategy is to “facilitate innovation, ensure sustainable development, improve accessibility and develop the urban fabric within the region in order to enhance overall productivity and competitiveness”. All projects under the Sligo GIF submission will help ensure the BMW objectives are delivered particularly in the areas of Urban Development and Secondary Transport.

At Local Level…

Sligo County Development Board has established an economic, social and cultural development strategy for Sligo. Involving all key interest groups and agencies its vision of Sligo is “a place with vibrant cultural and commercial activity, a thriving urban centre, dynamic and safe urban and rural communities, a strong sense of civic pride and a superior quality of life”. Three core themes include:-

• The achievement of balanced spatial development
• The promotion of social inclusion
• An enhanced living culture

The strategy envisages an inclusive County which facilitates equal access to a quality infrastructure, achieving balanced growth while promoting the rich cultural identity of Sligo.

The proposals contained within this application are key elements of the strategic approach outlined in the strategy and are key actions and deliverables within the plan.