News

Shannon Chamber has issued a call to action for delivering the State’s key infrastructure, stating that accountability is essential to the delivery of the National Development Plan (NDP), currently being reviewed by government.

The Chamber has made this call in its response to the public consultation process of the NDP review declaring that concrete outcomes are essential if the intended objectives of the Plan are to be achieved.

Commenting on the Chamber’s submission, chief executive Helen Downes said: “The NDP must be conducted through the twin lenses of delivery and accountability as, without immediate and decisive action, the Plan risks devolving into a checklist of missed opportunities. All government departments should work together to achieve a unified purpose – a shared vision of economic progress for the entire nation.

“The absence of an overarching economic plan for the country is evident in the lack of progress made in the offshore wind in the Shannon Estuary and western seaboard where wind is strongest, increasing concentration of air access in Dublin while regional international airports have capacity, and delays in critical infrastructure – roads, water and energy,” Ms Downes added.

Providing commentary on infrastructure, housing, regional connectivity, flood defences, offshore wind potential and balanced regional development, the Chamber’s submission took account of the concerns of its board and members, now numbering 330 companies from diverse sectors.

Shannon Chamber’s key requests to the Government:

• Include Shannon Airport in the Regional Airports Programme 2026–2030 to support its continued development and contribution to regional connectivity.
• Undertake a review of the National Aviation Policy to ensure optimal use of all regional airports across the country.
• Advance the development of robust transport infrastructure, with a specific timeline for delivering a direct rail link to Shannon Airport.
• Provide funding through the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) – or a similar mechanism – to help implement key development strategies in towns like Shannon that are vital to Ireland’s economy.
• Increase the availability of land for housing, and address constraints such as the lack of serviced and zoned residential land that hinder construction.
• Invest adequately in the Floating Offshore Wind sector, harnessing the strong wind conditions along the west coast to support Ireland’s renewable energy goals.
• Accelerate investment in marine planning and infrastructure to embed businesses, research bodies, and skilled workers across the Atlantic Economic Corridor into the offshore wind supply chain.
• Fast-track the delivery of flood defence projects, especially the Shannon Town and Environs Flood Relief Scheme, to protect Shannon Airport, local industrial zones, and the wider community from serious flood risks.

“Our submission was based on the premise that a clear, nationwide economic vision – one that focuses on unlocking the untapped comparative advantages of the regions, is essential when reassessing the National Development Plan,” stated Ms Downes.