G6 Access and Communications Infrastructure

G6: Access and Communications Infrastructure – Actions

Co. Kilkenny has an opportunity to develop its ‘green’ credentials by encouraging the development and implementation of innovative, integrated public transport modes, moving significantly beyond the existing infrastructure.  This approach will encourage the development of integrated models of City Access, Parking, and Park-and-Stride to relieve congestion and improve the environment and attractiveness in particular of the compact Kilkenny City core.

Strategic Infrastructure

Belview Port is the nearest deep-water Irish port to mainland Europe. Two thirds of the Irish domestic market lies within a 160km radius of Belview, with direct access to the national rail network and the motorway network.  It is regionally very significant in terms of employment creation. Kilkenny City represents the largest centre of employment for those resident, and also working in the county.  Kilkenny attracts employees from throughout the county, defining itself as a strong commuter town, the majority of which travel by car.  Inward commuting Kilkenny employees tend to be most distributed in the centre and north of the county. 

Co. Waterford is the largest employment centre for those who are resident in Co. Kilkenny but are working outside of the county, comprising a majority of 50%; 45% of which are employed in Waterford City alone, whilst the remaining 5% are employed elsewhere in Co. Waterford.

Broadband

It is necessary to encourage the development of an enhanced Broadband Infrastructure, particularly in the rural areas, by ensuring that improvement initiatives are successful, and that innovative local solutions are enabled.

G6: Actions Summary

A35: Maximise the potential of the Belview Port industrial zone in terms of infrastructure and job creation opportunities.

A36: Develop a walking and cycling trail strategy to include the potential of enterprise related activities and job creation potential and linked to tourism actions.

A37: Develop a linked County and City integrated transport service.  This will integrate with the successful rural transport service Ringalink.

A38: Undertake a Broadband Needs Analysis and facilitate the rollout of high speed broadband across the county, in particular in rural areas.