As already outlined there is an acknowledged need to strengthen the role of the region as a whole, and provide better integration between the CDB's in the Mid West Region and between the cities of Limerick, Cork and Galway. Strategically linking these cities as an integrated urban region would increase the opportunities for the cities in the region to attract new development and act as a new focus for growth in the State. Limerick would be geographically central to such a zone, affording opportunities for development, growth and investment.

The City of Limerick is at the heart of the Mid-West region. The City has established itself and is recognised as the regional hub for transportation, employment, services, learning and culture. The challenge for the future is to consolidate and enhance this role and, most importantly, to develop the City as a nationally and internationally recognised centre of investment and production. To achieve this there is a clear need for the City to continue to attract new and more diverse investment such as public and private services, and to maintain and develop its role as a manufacturing and retail centre.

Goal 1:

Limerick City will contribute to Local, Regional and National Planning Processes

Objective 1.1:To facilitate increased co-operation with neighbouring City and County Development Boards and with Local Authorities, ensuring consistent, high quality development across the region.
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Development Board

Objective 1.2:To ensure that regional agencies of the City co-operate with each other within their sectoral responsibilities, with a focus on the City.
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Development Board

Objective 1.3:To ensure the City's status in the regional and national planning process, including the National Spatial Strategy is enhanced through Limerick City's designation as a gateway.
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Development Board

Objective 1.4:To facilitate the involvement of local citizens in the planning process of local areas.
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Development Board/Limerick City Council

Objective 1.5:To ensure that the development of Limerick City and the other major towns is reflected in balanced growth throughout the region.
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Development Board

Goal 2:

High quality, sustainable transportation services will be provided to, from and within Limerick City.

Objective 2.1:To establish rail links with Galway and Cork, with links to satellite towns, and to Shannon International Airport
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Development Board

Objective 2.2:To provide high speed direct and frequent rail access to Dublin.
Responsible Organisation: Iarnrod Eireann /Limerick City Development Board

Objective 2.3:To improve bus transfer facilities in Limerick
Responsible Organisation: Bus Eireann

Objective 2.4:To improve road links with Galway, Cork and Dublin
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Council

Objective 2.5:To enhance the role of Shannon International Airport and re-enforce its continued growth and development in the future
Responsible Organisation: Shannon Development/Aer Rianta

Objective 2.6:To improve the routes, frequency and efficiency of bus services in the City.
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Council/Bus Eireann

Objective 2.7:To promote a rail system in Limerick.
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Council

Objective 2.8:To promote a more integrated public transport service in the City.
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Council

Objective 2.9:To develop a pedestrian friendly City.
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Council

Objective 2.10:To develop a cycle friendly City.
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Council

Objective 2.11:To establish a canal based transport link from the City Centre to University of Limerick.
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Council/Limerick City Development Board

Objective 2.12:To rationalise on street, car parking in the City.
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Council

Objective 2.13:To ensure all roads and footpaths, services and utilities are planned, designed and maintained to ensure safety, accessibility and efficiency for all.
Responsible Organisation: Limerick City Council

14/06/2007