What is Sustainable Urban Development?
Sustainable Urban Development seeks to combine measures for urban renewal with those that promote education, economic development, social inclusion and environmental protection. To learn more about the European Union’s vision for Urban Development, visit their website.
Funding for this investment area is provided by the European Regional Development Fund.
Here are two case studies that give examples of how European funding has been used to aid the development of Ireland’s towns and cities:
Funding for Sustainable Urban Development: 52 million euro from the Southern and Eastern Regional Operational Programme and 28 million euro from the Border, Midland and Western Regional Operational Programme.
This €80 million for Sustainable Urban Development is being provided through the Designated Urban Centres Grants Scheme funded under the two Regional Operational Programmes.
Local Authorities submitted proposals for Sustainable Urban Development Projects for approval. The three projects outlined below are just an example of those being supported by the European Regional Development Fund.
With some Local Authorities splitting their allocation among multiple projects, a total of 24 projects are being supported around the country.
All of the towns and cities being supported under this Scheme are shown on the map.
Examples of Sustainable Urban Development Projects
Abbey Creative Quarter – Kilkenny
European Regional Development Fund
The Smithwicks Brewery will be revitalised by the development of a linear park, public spaces, and a street that prioritises pedestrians and cyclists.
There is €4.5 million in funding for the full project, with €3.5 million from the Local Authority and €1 million from the European Union.
Read more about Kilkenny County Council’s plans for the Abbey Creative Quarter on their website.
Urban Centre Revitalisation – Limerick
European Regional Development Fund
The centre of Limerick will be revitalised by a project to improve public spaces, widen footpaths, re-align bus corridors and improve traffic management at key locations in the city centre. The design shown here is just an early artist’s rendition, as a final plan has not yet been agreed.
There is €9m million in funding for this project, with €4.95 million from the Local Authority and €4.05 million from the European Union.
City Library and Cultural Centre – Galway
European Regional Development Fund
A City Library and Cultural Centre is being planned for the heart of Galway City.
There is €7 million in funding for this phase of project, split evenly between the Local Authority and the European Union. The Local Authority will provide additional funding as part of the completed project.
Which Funds invest in Sustainable Urban Development?
Sustainable Development is an investment area unique to the European Regional Development Fund. Click on the tile below to explore the other investments made by that Fund.
