Development plan · Louth County Council
Louth County Development Plan 2021–2027
The council's development plan written statement: its strategy, policies, objectives and development standards.
Louth County Council · 2021–2027 · 548 pages
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- Chapter 6 - Tourism Louth County Development Plan 2021-2027 6-13 The brand is rooted in the rich history and diverse range of cultural heritage experiences that are particularly prevalent in the Eastern and Southern regions of Ireland. To date there has been a phased roll-out of the branding strategy, with investment in orientation signage and the enhancement of the visitor experience across the programme area. The first phase of the orientation signage for Ireland’s Ancient East began at the end of 2016 with a number of key visitor orientation signs now installed in the County. The signs are designed to encourage visitors to stay longer and explore the wider region and have been strategically sited in locations such as Drogheda Museum (Millmount), Dundalk Tourist Office, Carlingford Tourist Office, Mellifont Abbey and Monasterboice Round Tower & High Cross. Ultimately the key strategic objective of the Ireland’s Ancient East initiative is to increase the number of overnight stays by overseas visitors in the County as well as increase the tourism revenue generated and the associated tourism employment. 6.4.2 Ancient Destination Development Plan 2020 – 2024 The Ancient Destination Development Plan (ADDP) is a five year development plan designed to guide tourism development through a roadmap of key projects adopted by all stakeholders in the pursuit of sustained tourism growth. Over the course of the ADDP, its success will be measured in the context of achieving growth across a range of indicators from new experience supply, visitor demand and destination development indicators. The approach adopted within the ADDP is designed to be transformative in how the integrated approach to developing key projects will generate economic growth across the destination. It is designed to harness existing assets and develop them to provide compelling reasons to visit, while providing the tourism industry with a central focus for experience development. The target outputs from the ADDP will include a reduction in seasonality, increase visitor spend, grow visitor bed nights, employment and visitor dispersion. 6.4.3 Drogheda – Destination Town Drogheda has been designated as a ‘Destination Town’ by Fáilte Ireland. Funding will be allocated by Fáilte Ireland under this initiative to boost the attractiveness and tourism potential of the town. The Fáilte Ireland scheme is part of the National Tourism Development Authority’s work to drive a better regional spread of overseas and domestic visitors and spend. The scheme is funded under the Government’s Project Ireland 2040 strategy with the aim of driving sustainable growth in the Irish tourism sector and higher revenue and job creation around Ireland. Research by Fáilte Ireland has consistently shown that attractive towns and cities are key motivators for overseas holidaymakers coming to Ireland. The ‘Destination Towns’ scheme will seek to enhance public spaces such as squares, streetscapes and markets in a way that will engage tourists and enhance their experience. This may include spaces for food and craft markets, areas for town centre events, public art displays as well as orientation and signage to help visitors explore a town’s local heritage.
- Chapter 6 - Tourism Louth County Development Plan 2021-2027 6-14 Policy Objective TOU 20 To promote the sustainable development of County Louth as a quality tourist destination in partnership with Fáilte Ireland and associated agencies themed on heritage, culture and an unspoilt natural environment and support innovative tourism projects that would boost employment and promote County Louth as a tourism destination, subject to compliance with the requirements of the Development Zones as detailed in Chapter 3. Policy Objective TOU 22 To assist in the development and marketing of identified Tourism Destinations including the Boyne Valley and Mourne Cooley Gullion destinations, in conjunction with the relevant stakeholders. Policy Objective TOU 23 To support and promote Drogheda as a designated ‘Destination Town’ and engage with Fáilte Ireland in developing and promoting the tourism potential of the town. 6.5 TOURIST ACCOMMODATION There is an underlying need to provide tourist and visitor accommodation which facilitates the growth of the tourism sector within the County. The Council is keen to ensure that there is a range of high quality and affordable accommodation provided in order to meet the needs of visitors and tourists to the County. Within the south of the County, there is an identified shortfall in tourist accommodation. This is highlighted within the Boyne Valley Tourism Strategy 2016- 2020 and has become a significant deterrent among tour operators for scheduling the area for overnight stays. However, tourist accommodation must be provided in a manner, which does not impact upon the unspoilt natural heritage of the County and does not compromise the very reason for many inward trips to the county. Policy Objective TOU 25 To promote and support the development of additional tourism accommodation at appropriate locations throughout the County in particularly in the Regional Growth Centres of Drogheda and Dundalk. Policy Objective TOU 21 To seek best-practice environmental management and climate proofing of tourism related developments and activities to include the circular economy, energy efficiency, waste management, procurement and recycling. Policy Objective TOU 24 To support and work with Fáilte Ireland on the development and implementation of Destination Experience Development Plans and to engage with Fáilte Ireland to deliver the implementation of the Ancient Destination Development Plan 2020 - 2024 within County Louth.
- Chapter 6 - Tourism Louth County Development Plan 2021-2027 6-15 6.5.1 Hotel, Guest House and Bed & Breakfast Accommodation In 2019 there were 856 rooms and 2,097 beds available in the County across all major forms of tourist accommodation (hotels, guesthouses, bed & breakfast, hostels and self-catering), with 84% of the bed spaces provided for by existing hotels (Fáilte Ireland, Accommodation Capacity 2019). It is also acknowledged that there has been a significant increase in short term letting and hosting across Ireland in recent years through platforms such as Airbnb. This has become a conventional option of accommodation for many tourists and visitors. The hosting of conferences is an important element of the hotel trade and reduces the reliance upon seasonal tourism trade. Given Louth’s strategic location along the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor and its proximity to international airports in Dublin and Belfast, there is significant potential for growth in this area. Custom built guest houses should be located within existing towns and villages to avail of and support existing services. Bed & breakfast accommodation is normally provided within existing dwellings and can be accommodated in both urban and rural areas. The Council is keen to ensure that there is a range of high quality and affordable accommodation provided in order to meet the needs of visitors and tourists to the County. Policy Objective TOU 26 To direct tourism–based development including Hotels, Guesthouses and B&B’s to Level 1, 2 and 3 Settlements where there is adequate infrastructure to service the development, except where the proposal involves the re-use or diversification of an existing building, subject to normal planning criteria. 6.5.2 Self-Catering Accommodation Self-catering accommodation is defined as ‘purpose built self-contained residential units, which provide accommodation on a short term basis for visitors to the area’. In order to manage the provision of tourist accommodation in a manner that meets the needs of the tourist, while at the same time supporting the local economy, it is considered important that the provision of self-catering accommodation should be provided within the network of existing settlements and be of a scale that the settlement can sustain. Therefore, the Council will resist proposals for the development of self-catering accommodation in the countryside, except where existing buildings of character are to be converted or where the restoration of vernacular dwellings is proposed.
- Chapter 6 - Tourism Louth County Development Plan 2021-2027 6-16 Policy Objective TOU 27 To facilitate the provision of self-catering accommodation in locations within existing towns and villages, of a scale that the settlement can sustain. Policy Objective TOU 28 To prohibit proposals for the development of self-catering accommodation in the countryside except where existing buildings of character are to be converted or where the restoration of vernacular dwellings including thatched cottages is proposed. 6.5.3 Caravan and Camping Sites The provision of caravan and camping sites is an important element in the accommodation of holiday-makers. The provision of additional caravan and camping sites could potentially attract more tourists to the County and generate additional income. The Council recognises the need for the provision of camp sites to cater for touring holiday caravans, campervan and tents, which are appropriately located and sensitively designed. The sector has also changed in line with consumer demand and its offering now includes accommodation such as glamping and pods. Glamping or pod units are seen as an upmarket style of camping and are usually fixed or semi-permanent structures. If situated in the wrong location caravan and camping sites along with their ancillary buildings can be obtrusive features in the landscape detracting from its overall scenic quality and amenity. In order to protect the visual amenity of the countryside new caravan parks and camping /glamping sites shall normally be located within existing settlements. Small scale camping/glamping sites outside of settlements will be considered only where it can be demonstrated that there is a justifiable tourist product / demand in that area. In exceptional circumstances, caravan parks or campsites may be permitted where the proposal: • Involves the re-development of a previous worked site; • Is within a forest or woodland; and • Is within a demesne setting. In all cases the proposal should be suitably screened, have an adequate road network to serve the development, in addition to adequate foul drainage. Policy Objective TOU 29 To encourage new caravan parks and camping sites to locate within existing settlements which are appropriately screened and which are served by an adequate and acceptable road network and foul drainage. In exceptional circumstances caravan and camping sites may be permitted in previous worked sites, forest or woodland or demesne setting.
- Chapter 6 - Tourism Louth County Development Plan 2021-2027 6-17 Policy Objective TOU 30 To consider the provision of glamping/camping accommodation outside of settlements only where it can be demonstrated that there is a justifiable tourist product/demand or where it is proposed to re-use existing vernacular buildings. The need to develop in a particular area must be balanced against environmental, social and cultural impacts of the development and benefits to the local community. In such cases, documentary evidence shall be submitted to substantiate the proposed development and each individual application will be assessed on its merits. Policy Objective TOU 31 To facilitate the upgrade of existing caravan parks and camping sites in approved locations and to ensure that such upgrades are climate resilient. Policy Objective TOU 32 To support the provision of camper van facilities at appropriate locations in the County subject to any facilities being acceptable in terms of location, visual impact, and compliance with any environmental assessments required. 6.5.4 Hostels Hostel accommodation catering primarily for those travelling on a limited budget, occupies an important niche within the tourist accommodation market. Whilst the individual spend on this type of accommodation is by definition low, the ancillary spend by such tourists in the locality can be considerable. Policy Objective TOU 33 To facilitate the provision of budget hostels within existing Level 1, 2 and 3 Settlements ensuring high quality design and architecture, provision of adequate infrastructure, compliance with normal planning criteria and subject to the protection of the unspoilt natural environment and landscape amenity. 6.5.5 Short Term Lettings Under the Residential Tenancies (Amendment) Act 2019 and the Planning and Development Act 2000 (Exempted Development) No.2 Regulations 2019 reforms have been introduced to the short term letting sector. These reforms are aimed at addressing the impact on the private rental market by the use of residential homes for shortterm tourism type letting in areas of high housing demand. These provisions only apply to areas designated as ‘Rent Pressure Zones’ under the Residential Tenancies Act (as amended). At the time of writing all of County Louth, with exception of the Clogher electoral area was designated a Rent Pressure Zone. The Short Term Letting Regulations will only apply as long as there are designated Rent Pressure Zones, which, at the time of writing is until December 2021. There is provision to extend these designations further if rental supply issues still remain in 2021.
- Chapter 6 - Tourism Louth County Development Plan 2021-2027 6-18 Under the new arrangements applicable in rent pressure zones: • Short term letting is defined as the letting of a house or apartment or part of a house or apartment, for any period not exceeding 14 days; • Homesharing continues to be permissible on an unrestricted basis; • Homesharers are allowed to sub-let their entire principle private residence for a cumulative period of 90 days where they are temporarily absent from their home; and • Where the 90 day threshold is exceeded, change of use permission will be required. Homesharers in rent pressure zones who wish to avail of these exemptions are required to register with the Council. Any property that is not a principle private residence that is to be used for short-term letting will require a change of use application. These applications will be assessed on a case by case basis and will take account of issues such as; the demand for private housing in the area, the suitability of the property for short term letting, the car parking, access and service arrangements, and the impact of the development on surrounding residential amenities and the local environment. 6.6 VISITOR AND HABITAT MANAGEMENT The following Policy Objectives relating to the sustainable development of tourism and environmental protection and management have been integrated into the Plan through the SEA and AA processes. Policy Objective TOU 34 To seek to manage any increase in visitor numbers in order to avoid significant effects including loss of habitat and disturbance and ensuring that new any projects, such as greenways, are a suitable distance from ecological sensitivities, such as riparian zones. Policy Objective TOU 35 To consider the potential environmental effects of a likely increase in tourists/tourism-related traffic volumes in particular locations/along particular routes shall be considered and mitigated as appropriate. Such a consideration should include potential impacts on existing infrastructure (including drinking water, wastewater, waste and transport) resulting from tourism proposals.
- Chapter 7 MOVEMENT ‘To facilitate investment and improvement in transport infrastructure in the County that will support economic growth and investment and the creation of healthy, sustainable communities; by improving connectivity and journey times within and between settlements, promoting and investing in more sustainable modes of travel including walking, cycling and public transport, creating a more attractive public realm, and reducing carbon emissions.’
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- Chapter 7 - Movement Louth County Development Plan 2021-2027 7-1 7 MOVEMENT 7.1 INTRODUCTION A modern, functional and sustainable transportation network that allows people and goods to move around efficiently contributes to an environment where businesses can thrive and people can enjoy a more balanced lifestyle. Louth benefits from a well-developed network of transport links at a national, regional and local level. The strategic location of the County along the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor provides excellent transport links to these cities via the motorway, national roads, and inter-city rail line. There is also a strong network of regional and local roads that provide connectivity between settlements within the County and key service centres in the wider region. This Chapter will set out the strategy for transport infrastructure provision and investment in the County. It will strive to strengthen the links between land use and transportation and will seek to promote more sustainable modes of transport including walking, cycling, public transport and car-share facilities, including the use of electric vehicles, so as to reduce urban congestion, create more attractive environments and to help transition to a low carbon and climate resilient County. The Plan also seeks to progress key infrastructure projects that will facilitate economic growth in the County and maintain its economic competitiveness. 7.2 OVERSIGHT AND RESPONSIBILITY FOR TRANSPORT POLICY, INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES 7.2.1 Department of Transport At a national level, the Department of Transport is responsible for transport policy and the funding and oversight of transport infrastructure and services. Working under the remit of the Department of Transport, the National Transport Authority (NTA) and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) are the state agencies with responsibility for providing and maintaining transport infrastructure. 7.2.2 Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) Transport Infrastructure Ireland was established through a merger of the National Roads Authority and the Railway Procurement Agency under the Roads Act 2015. TII's primary function is to provide an integrated approach to the future development and operation of the national roads network and light rail infrastructure throughout Ireland.
- Chapter 7 - Movement Louth County Development Plan 2021-2027 7-2 7.2.3 The National Transport Authority (NTA) The NTA is responsible for planning, implementation and funding of public transport and infrastructure, regulation and contracting of public transport services, and providing facilities and infrastructure that promote walking and cycling. 7.2.4 Local Authorities Local Authorities work closely with the DTTAS, the NTA and TII in the implementation of transport policy and in identifying and funding roads and transport related projects at a local level. 7.3 POLICY CONTEXT The Movement and Transport Strategy in this Plan has been informed by a broad range of national and regional policy documents and strategies. A brief summary of these documents is set out in this section. 7.3.1 National and Regional Strategies Project Ireland 2040 – The National Planning Framework (NPF) and National Development Plan 2018-2027 (NDP): The NPF recognises the importance of an integrated approach to land use and transport planning in achieving the goals of the Framework. These goals are set out in the document as National Strategic Outcomes. This integrated approach includes: • Improvements to public transport to facilitate compact growth and achieving a reduction in carbon emissions; • Investment in walking and cycling infrastructure to promote more active and healthy lifestyles; and • Investment in road infrastructure to improve connectivity and accessibility. The NDP sets out details of infrastructure investment up to 2027. It is closely aligned to the National Strategic Outcomes of the NPF which will ensure there is a coordinated approach between policy and expenditure. The following transport related projects in Louth have been included in the NDP: • N2 upgrade Ardee to Castleblayney; • N52 Ardee Bypass; and • DART Expansion Programme to Drogheda. Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES) for the Eastern and Midland Region 2019-2031: The RSES supports the implementation of the National Planning Framework and the National Development Plan by setting out a strategic planning and economic framework that is consistent with the National Policy Objectives and National Strategic Outcomes set out in the NPF.
Source Louth County Council: Louth County Development Plan 2021–2027 (2021–2027) · Licence the publisher's termsText read from the publisher’s PDF; tables, maps and drawings do not survive as text, and page numbers are the PDF’s (its first page is 1). Check the original before relying on a passage.