A historic day has been celebrated in Limerick with the adoption of the county's first ever development plan.

The Limerick Development Plan 2022-2028 sets out a blueprint for the development of Limerick from a physical, economic, social and environmental perspective from now until 2028. It represents the first combined plan for Limerick City and County since the amalgamation of the two authorities.

The vision set out in the Limerick Development Plan is that Limerick will become a green city region on the Shannon Estuary connected through people and places.

This will be achieved through engagement, innovation and resilient urban development and self-sustaining rural communities.

The Limerick Development Plan seeks to support the development of robust towns and villages across Limerick, placing quality of life at the centre of decision making and focuses on the development of ten minute neighbourhoods, supporting people to live, work and recreate in their local neighbourhoods.

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The Plan has zoned sufficient lands to accommodate over 15,500 new homes in Limerick over the lifetime of the Plan. The Plan envisages growth in the existing built-up areas of Limerick City and Environs, including Mungret and Annacotty, the key town of Newcastle West and throughout the many towns and villages of Limerick, supported by strong economic activity and high quality environments, coupled with adequate social and physical infrastructure.

A number of motions relating to zoning were accepted by councillors after votes on each.

The Plan will come into effect on Friday 29 July as per the Planning Law.

Welcoming the new Limerick Development Plan, Mayor of the City and County of Limerick Cllr Daniel Butler said: "After a two-year plan preparation process, I welcome the adoption of the first consolidated Plan for Limerick, a plan which has been developed following extensive consultation with the people of Limerick. The Plan provides a robust framework for Limerick to develop, as a dynamic, innovative and resilient place, supporting existing communities."

Pat Daly, Chief Executive of Limerick City and County Council, commented: "It's a historic day for Limerick, the adoption of the first consolidated plan for Limerick. I wish to thank the Elected Members and the people of Limerick for engaging in the Limerick Development Plan preparation process. The process formally kicked off in August 2020, in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, which presented many challenges, the Elected Members and the public adapted and demonstrated tremendous dedication and commitment to achieving the best plan for Limerick."