Strategic Planning

The County Development Plan will set out a strategic planning framework for the growth of the County in line with higher level policies in the National Planning Framework “Project Ireland 2040” and the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the Southern Region.

National Planning Framework (NPF) The Government published the National Planning Framework, Project Ireland 2040, in May 2018. The document guides at a high-level strategic planning and development for the country over the next 20+ years. Project Ireland 2040 establishes the framework to guide future growth patterns and to ensure that as the population grows, it is sustainable in economic, social and environmental terms.

Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy

The Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the Southern Region 2020 - 2032 seeks to implement the NPF at a regional level and is based on a vision to:

• Nurture all places to realise their full potential;
• Protect and enhance the environment;
• Work to achieve economic prosperity and improve quality of life for all;
• Accommodate expanded growth and development in suitable locations; and
• Promote the region’s international reputation as one of Europe’s most creative, innovative, greenest and liveable regions.

Overall Approach

Having regard to the strategic planning context the forthcoming Carlow County Development Plan will be guided by the National Planning Framework (NPF) Project Ireland 2040 and the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the Southern Region (RSES). The finalised County Development Plan will consist of a written statement and accompanying maps including a Vision Statement, Policies and Key Objectives to achieve balanced and sustainable growth in County Carlow over the plan period and beyond. The strategic importance of Carlow Town (former Town Council area) will be recognised through the inclusion of strategic objectives and an accompanying land-use zoning map to facilitate future development of the town over the plan period.