Consultation Event on the National Planning Framework with Minister Simon Coveney

On 28th February 2017 the School of Architecture, Planning and Environmental Policy welcomed the Minister and officials from the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government to a UCD student consultation exercise linked to the National Planning Framework, which we hope will have a positive influence on Ireland’s future planning and development.

Minister Simon Coveney with local politicians, academics and students had a lively and interesting exchange of views on planning policy development in relation to several key areas including addressing the affordable housing needs of the population with a recovering successful economy and the global issue of sustaining the environment and addressing climate change.

Planning both in Ireland and internationally is having to develop a strategic approach to managing and planning the state’s economic development and environmental management in a period of major transition.  The School of Architecture, Planning and Environmental Policy and the wider university recognises the importance of this transition and will continue to provide strategic research, policy support and education in this important policy area.

A successful managed planning and development process is essential for the ongoing economic development and growth of the country. These issues are crucial to the student population of UCD who face into a future of both exciting opportunity and risks which need to be managed carefully.   

This seminar provided an opportunity for our students to avail of an active learning opportunity in this important area. Many thanks to the UCD students who made important and valuable contributions on the day and we encourage them where possible to follow up with written contributions as requested in this consultation exercise. We hope that our students continue their contributions to policy debates and all forms of civic engagement, both during their time in UCD and on graduation.