The Development of Galway City

In the past, cities tended to grow outwards. Galway was no exception. However, there is now a very attractive possibility of regeneration right in the core of Galway in the docks area that has been recently vacated by the oil companies. A number of years ago, I set up a vision group in Galway chaired by John Killeen to look at the possible uses of the docks areas of Galway for landmark development of a commercial, residential, social and cultural nature so that Galway City could grow in its heart adjacent to both the bus services and the railway line. This vision also included the transformation of the inner dock into a haven for marine leisure. The recent Volvo Ocean Race gave some indication of what could be achieved for this area, making it a huge addition to the City Centre and ensuring that many, many businesses would be attracted back to the core of the City. I look forward to working with all the partners to realise this dream and to make the Galway docks area a mecca of culture and leisure. I believe that we should ensure that instead of turning its back to the sea, the new Galway City will face the sea.