Infrastructure plan will kick-start critical projects in Waterford

Minister John Cummins has said the new Infrastructure Action Plan will "kick-start" critical projects in Waterford.

He said it will deliver more homes, better transport and critical infrastructure in the city and county.

Commenting on the issue, Minister Cummins said: "These reforms mark a turning point in cutting delays, streamlining planning approvals and ensuring that the infrastructure projects Waterford needs don’t stay on paper."

“This plan is critical for our growing economy, families in Waterford need better services, commuters need better transport and businesses need certainty," he said.

"This plan will deliver on all three," he added.

Minister Cummins said the plan contains 30 time-bound actions that will cut red tape, reduce regulations, and remove barriers.

"It will ultimately knock months and years off the time it takes to build homes, water treatment plants, energy grid infrastructure, roads and other essential capital projects like public transport, schools, and hospitals," he said.

"The plan includes emergency legislation to fast-track critical infrastructure projects through planning and approval processes, while also reforming the Judicial Review system to limit how projects can be opposed through the courts," he added. Minister Cummins pointed out that the Fine Gael General Election manifesto in 2024 called for a dedicated Department of Infrastructure and this plan is another step in the right direction.

“Thankfully we have a growing economy due to prudent financial management of our finances, but this creates a growing demand for housing, transport and energy," he said.

"This plan to remove barriers and streamlining process must lead to efficient development and real outcomes for communities in Waterford," he added.