Urban Evolution Deals are needed to drive sustainable urban development, says Cork Chamber
- Chamber pre-Budget submission emphasises Urban Evolution Deals, bespoke funding agreements between the Government and Local Authorities to revitalise urban centres -
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has today launched its 2025 pre-Budget submission calling on Government to reinvigorate Ireland’s urban centres through the creation of Urban Evolution Deals to drive sustainable urban development.
Delivering vibrant, safe urban centres is essential for Ireland’s economic and social vitality. By introducing funding for Urban Evolution Deals, Budget 2025 can enhance urban living, promote sustainable development, and foster inclusive communities.
Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, stated, “In recent years, Ireland’s cities and towns have undergone significant changes that if left unabated will affect our ability to attract talent and investment. The Government must prioritise the reinvigoration of urban areas through targeted measures and supports to encourage city-centre living, promote social cohesion and support economic growth.
“Our vision is to create living cities that are dynamic, welcoming, full of amenities and highly accessible to all. We are calling on Government to introduce Urban Evolution Deals, providing targeted funding for local authorities, empowering them to deploy resources in a manner tailored to their local needs. This will enable cities to leverage local strengths, drive sustainable development, and make city-centre living a reality.”
The Chamber’s pre-Budget submission also calls on Government to prioritise investment in housing and infrastructure; supporting competitiveness, skills and talent; and promoting social and environmental sustainability.
Mr. Healy continued, “Sustainable economic development must also be supported by investment in renewable energy now. Cork has the only port in Ireland with planning permission for the critical infrastructure needed to support offshore renewable energy and Cork Chamber is calling on Government to designate Cork as Ireland’s first national and international renewable energy hub. It is essential that Government provides the requisite funding for infrastructure to support the renewable energy sector, which will unlock significant economic and social benefits and support the achievement of our climate targets.”
Cork Chamber President, Rob Horgan, said, “Concerns regarding the cost of doing business in Ireland and the delivery of housing and infrastructure risk hampering Ireland’s competitiveness at present. Government must address these concerns in Budget 2025 through targeted measures that support sustainable growth, attract talent and nurture domestic enterprises.
“Greater alignment between central government, local authorities and the providers of critical infrastructure must be facilitated to ensure the swift delivery of the essential housing supply and long-awaited infrastructure projects that are so vital to growth and resilience.”
With Cork’s population set to grow significantly in the coming decades, the Chamber is calling on Government to accelerate the delivery of key enablers that will support this sharp increase. Government must commit to enabling the delivery of 10,000 housing units in Cork each year and the Cork Light Rail within 10 years. To facilitate the timely delivery of strategic projects, the Government’s decision-making process must be streamlined.
Mr. Horgan concluded, “Ireland’s ongoing competitiveness hinges on its ability to strike the right balance between leveraging FDI and supporting domestic enterprises to realise their full potential. Budget 2025 provides scope for the Government to do both – by increasing supports and streamlining regulations for SMEs, while also investing in Ireland’s long-term competitiveness through key infrastructure projects. Now is the time for Government to set a course for a more pro-business landscape, ensuring that Ireland remains competitive and attractive for local businesses and global industries alike.”
Cork Chamber's full 2025 pre-Budget submission is available here.
