4.1 - Introduction
This chapter sets out the overarching framework and strategy to guide the future sustainable development of the city. The objective is to ensure that growth is directed to, and prioritised in, the right locations to enable continued targeted investment in infrastructure and services and the optimal use of public transport. The intent is to guide and manage the city’s evolution to ensure that it develops in a sustainable and climate resilient manner in accordance with national and regional policy. High quality ‘placemaking’ will be required to ensure a compact city where people want to live and work.
Guiding principles regarding criteria such as height, density, urban design, quality architecture and public realm are set out. Key goals are to ensure that the city is:
- liveable and inclusive;
- resilient and environmentally sustainable;
- healthy, integrated and connected;
- compact and efficient in its use of resources; and
- strong economically with a vibrant cultural life.
In developing strategies for the shape and structure of the city, it is important to reflect on the changes that have taken place over the past two decades and to set out policies and strategies to ensure that Dublin retains and builds on its renowned urban form and character, while developing new city neighbourhoods which are well connected to their surrounding environment and to the city centre. The development of a strong, dynamic and vibrant city core complemented by an integrated network of well serviced, high quality neighbourhoods (in accordance with the principles of the 15 minute city[1]) is the key spatial and development strategy in this plan.
Spatial Structure of Dublin City
Dublin City spans a geographic area of 115 sq. km and its spatial structure is shaped by both its natural setting and man-made features. The River Liffey, along with the canals, contains both the ‘old’ medieval city and the unique Georgian squares and streets. These features, coupled with the larger areas of Victorian and Edwardian architecture north and south of the canals, and the urban villages, underpin the city’s strong character and identity, which is recognised internationally.
Dublin’s character is derived from its historical layers, ranging from its medieval origins to substantial new contemporary interventions in the built environment in areas such as the Docklands. The basic building blocks of this unique urban character consist of individual buildings, streets, urban spaces, neighbourhoods and landscapes. The development plan aims to protect and enhance the unique character of the city, derived from both the natural and built environments. Opportunities for new development will be required to respect the character of the city by taking account of the intrinsic value of our built heritage, landscape and natural environment.
[1] The 15-minute city concept envisages that within 15 minutes on foot or bike from where they live that people should have the ability to access most of their daily needs. Refer to Chapter 5 - Quality Housing and Sustainable Neighbourhoods.