Waterford Chamber launches long-term strategy and vision for Waterford and the South East
Waterford Chamber has launched Waterford & The South East 2075: A Regional Strategy for Prosperity & Connectivity, setting out a long-term vision for the development of Waterford and the wider South East.
The strategy was unveiled at the Waterford City Region Advantage Dinner at Faithlegg, which brought together representatives from business, Government, local authorities, higher education, enterprise agencies and other regional stakeholders.
Developed following research and stakeholder engagement led by Dr Ray Griffin of South East Technological University (SETU), Waterford Chamber CEO Gerald Hurley and Niall Harrington, Chair of Waterford Chamber’s Infrastructure & Development Panel, the strategy looks ahead to 2075 and considers the long-term development needs and opportunities of the region.
It focuses on a number of areas considered important to the future growth of Waterford and the South East, including infrastructure and connectivity, housing, healthcare, higher education, renewable energy, enterprise and regional collaboration.
The strategy positions Waterford as the anchor city for a connected South East and examines how greater connectivity and investment could support economic growth and opportunity across the wider region.
Among the areas considered in the report are improved regional and national transport connectivity; the future development of higher education and research capacity; housing and healthcare provision; renewable and offshore energy; enterprise development; and mechanisms for greater regional coordination.
The strategy was presented at the event by economist Jim Power and Dr Ray Griffin, followed by a panel discussion involving representatives from SETU, Enterprise Ireland, Waterford City & County Council, ESB, UPMC Whitfield and the private sector.
The launch also included a keynote address from former Tánaiste Simon Coveney, now Head of Global Affairs for EY EMEIA.
Waterford & The South East 2075 is intended by Waterford Chamber to provide a long-term framework for discussion and engagement on the future development of Waterford and the South East.
