Map 2: Settlement and Zoning map
Population Increase:
The planned population growth for Portlaw between 2016 and 2031 is 250 people. This in my view, combined with the aspiration of the village to grow and become a hub for tourism and new businesses, is too low and needs to be revisited. The target of 250 people is no ambitions or realistic.
Recommendation: Increase planned population growth for the same period to at least 500 people.
Physical Infrastructure:
The physical infrastructure (roads, footpaths etc) has improved considerably with Active Travel funding bring used in many instances. In addition to the existing foorpath replacement programme, there must be a renewed focus on installing new footpath where there is a need but currently none in place.
Recommendation: Plan to include a new footpath to Portlaw Church and Curraghmore Estate.
Fibre Broadband Supply:
Currently fibre broadband is available in parts but not all of the village. The new Co Development Plan, in partnership with National Broadband Ireland, must put more of a focus on having a uniform supply of fibre broadband in all village areas. I note that the NBI survey of the Comeragh area is currently on going and requires input from WCCC
Recommendation: Work with NBI to ensure delivery of fibre broadband to all areas of the village in the short term,
Zoning:
In order for Portlaw to expand and develop, sufficient land must be zoned residential in order to cater for the expected increase in population. There has been a chronic lack of suitably zomed sites in the area for several years, particularly for local people that wish to build.
Provision must also my made for a small hotel type development in order to cater for local events and attract tourist in to capitalise on our location to the Comeragh Uplands and Greenway.
Suitable zoning must also be included to cater for a new fuel/petrol station which is required for the benefit of the local residents.
Wastewater Plant:
Provision must be made for increase in development and also in line with development is the need to dispose of waste water. There currently is work being carried out on the water treatment plant and the capacity of the plant must be increased in advance.
In addition, please review and include the submission from Portlaw Community Enhancement Committee Ltd.