Success rests on realistic incentives

THERE will be a heightened sense of anticipation in towns across the country today as the Government prepares to publish its long awaited national spatial strategy.

Though due for release before the general election, politics intervened and it was put on ice to avoid damaging the Coalition’s hopes of getting back into office. This suggests towns may be disappointed in constituencies where Dáil seats were regarded as marginal.

Basically, the strategy is a blueprint for development. It envisages nine “gateway” centres around Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway, Waterford and other major urban areas in the Midlands and West regions and on the Border. These will be matched by nine regional hubs.