The Role of Road-Space & Public Realm Allocation in the Socio-Economic Regeneration of Irish Towns

What role can the way we use road space play in revitalising Ireland’s towns?

Streets are much more than routes for movement. They are places where people meet, spend time, access services and support local businesses. A new TU Dublin study, commissioned by the National Town Centre First Office and the LGMA, examines how road space allocation and the public realm can help shape the future of Ireland’s towns.

It draws on Irish and international research to examine issues influencing town centres today, including:

• The changing role of town centres and main streets

• The socio-economic value of public realm investment

• Car access, parking and travel behaviour

• Governance, communication and engagement

Lessons from road-space reallocation and public space reclamation It features detailed case studies from Blackrock and Dundrum, Co. Dublin, alongside the internationally recognised experience of Pontevedra, Spain, providing insights into how different places have created more vibrant, people-focused town centres.

Key themes emerging are the importance of quality public spaces, walkability, strong leadership, evidence-based decision-making and meaningful engagement with communities and businesses. The study also highlights the need for a stronger Irish evidence base to support future town centre regeneration initiatives. Principal Investigator Dr Sarah Rock of TU Dublin said: “One of the key findings from the research is that streets are much more than routes for movement. They are also places where people meet, spend time, access services and support local businesses.

The report draws together lessons from Ireland and abroad that can help towns to think about how better use of public space can contribute to stronger, more attractive and more resilient town centres.” Town Centre First Office National Coordinator Mairead Hunt said: “The way we use and shape public space has a significant influence on the success of our towns. Through this research, we wanted to build the evidence base around what makes town centres attractive, vibrant and sustainable places to live, work, visit and invest in. The report provides important insights that can help inform future Town Centre First initiatives across Ireland.” Whether your interest is town regeneration, placemaking, mobility, economic development or community wellbeing, this report offers insights to inform and inspire discussion.

Read the full report here