8.0 Mechanisms to Secure Consensus
Sligo Local Authorities have undertaken a widespread consultation process in the preparation of the Gateway Innovation Fund Submission. The projects proposed within the application form an integral part of the Sligo and Environs Development Plan which was adopted in 2004 and was the basis of an extensive consultation process prior to adoption.
Proposals were approved by both Sligo Borough Council and Sligo County Council.
Following approval of the submission by Sligo County Development Board it was agreed that the Board would work to develop an associated Enterprise Strategy to support the achievement of the employment potential of the Gateway. The Board has also incorporated the development of the Sligo Brand in its objectives for the next two years.
The proposal was presented to the Parliamentary Representatives of the region at their annual briefing meeting with Sligo Local Authorities. They offered their support to the achievement of the objectives of the submission.
Sligo Chamber of Commerce approved the submission at their quarterly briefing meeting with Sligo Local Authorities. They acknowledged the potential benefits of the projects. They committed to working with the Local Authorities in the ongoing planning for the Gateway.
Representatives of the Border, Midlands and West Regional Authority were consulted and offered their support to the submission.
Representatives of the key local and regional agencies, the private sector and utilities were invited to attend a briefing on 5th October 2007. This provided the opportunity to assess further potential benefits of the submission. A full list of those invited is contained in Appendix 2.
Representatives of the Border Regional Authorities were briefed on an ongoing basis and provided input into the development of the submission.
Land owners of key landbanks associated with the submission were consulted and possible partnership arrangements are continuing to be explored. This includes providing key tracks of land as their contribution to the delivery of the project in the case of the Eastern Bridge and Approach Roads. In addition the agreement by the Board of the Race Course to relocate provides the opportunity of freeing up a strategic land bank associated with the regeneration of Cranmore.
Discussions have been held with Bus Eireann for the provision of improved public transport options in the Eastern fringe.