A development framework has been published to bolster planning in Ireland's 'Atlantic gateway' regions.

The document, unveiled by Environment Minister John Gormley, provides policy guidance for schemes in Galway, Limerick-Shannon, Cork and Waterford.

In September 2006, a reported outlined how an integrated approach to the development of these four 'gateway' cities would be a key element of the government’s objective for more balanced regional development.

This latest overview report provides best practice in collaboration between local and regional authorities in developing high-level planning policy, and a 'shared vision' across city, county and regional boundaries.

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Minister Gormley said "significant progress" had been made by the members of the Atlantic Gateways Steering Committee in translating the principles of inter-gateway collaboration into concrete vision and actions.

"As the National Competitiveness Council has outlined recently, planning and investment for competitive city regions is the key to ensuring Ireland’s longer-term economic recovery and prosperity," he said.

"In establishing a linked metropolitan region in the western and southern parts of Ireland with the critical mass of population, infrastructure, connectivity and competitiveness, it can position the Atlantic gateways to act jointly at the international level in development terms."

However, Mr Gormley said it was important to remain "realistic in what can be prioritised and delivered within the current economic environment".

"Even in these tough times, we have to maintain a forward-looking focus on future opportunities and set a viable and strategic framework for continued practical implementation and delivery of the Atlantic gateways initiative," he added.

(PR/KMcA)