Cross-border Cooperation and Planning

From the outset, cross-border cooperation and planning has formed the core of the ICLRD’s specialist expertise. Following the Good Friday Agreement in 1998 and against the background of the European Spatial Development published the following year, an opportunity emerged for collaboration on matters of spatial planning in relation to both the island of Ireland and the border region. The ICLRD played an instrumental role in creating a space for cooperation and dialogue at both local and regional levels and continues to play an critical role in ensuring alignment between the National Planning Framework (RoI) and Regional Development Strategy (NI) as well as fostering engagement at the local level. Most recently, ICLRD researchers have analysed the potential impacts of Brexit for cross-border cooperation and spatial planning.

Publications and reports emerging from this work are available from the links below:

• Framework of Regional Priorities 2021-2027

• Models of Spatial Planning and Development in a Post-Brexit Landscape: Collaborating across External Borders  (multiple documents, 2017-2018)

• Fostering Mutual Benefits in Cross-Border Areas: The Challenges and Opportunities in Connecting Irish Border Towns and Villages (2008)

• Spatial Strategies on the Island of Ireland: Development of a Framework for Collaborative Action (2006)

ICLRD Leads: Caroline Creamer, Neale Blair, John Driscoll, Brendan O’ Caoimh, Catriona Mullen