Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 September 2024
54. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will designate Drogheda as a city in law and for local government administrative purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37978/24]
View answerThe National Planning Framework published in 2018 sets out a vision and strategy for the spatial development of Ireland to 2040. The Framework recognises the strategic importance of Drogheda and aims to support its development and its economic potential as part of the Dublin-Belfast Corridor and in particular the core Drogheda-Dundalk-Newry network. Drogheda’s role is reflected at a regional level in the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES) for the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly area. The RSES targets significant growth into the regional growth centres, including Drogheda, to enable them to act as regional drivers. In 2021 both Meath and Louth County Councils adopted new Development Plans which further underline the importance of Drogheda as a key urban centre in both counties.
The Draft First Revision to the NPF and accompanying technical assessments were published by Government on 10 July 2024 and were subject to public consultation for a 9 week period concluding on 12 September. Almost 300 submissions were received, and these are currently being considered with a view to applying amendments to the Framework where necessary. The finalised document will be published, subject to Oireachtas and Government approval, in October 2024.
Local government areas are specified in primary legislation. The Local Government Act 2001 currently provides for three city council areas, namely Cork, Dublin, and Galway. For an additional a city council to be established, provision would have to be made for this and other consequential matters in the relevant legislation. There are no plans for legislation in this regard currently.
