People asked to attend public consultation and share their ideas for Tipperary's future

Residents across Tipperary and the wider Southern Region are being encouraged to take part in an important public consultation as the Southern Regional Assembly begins the review of the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES) and Metropolitan Area Strategic Plans for Cork, Limerick and Waterford.

A local public consultation event will take place in the Anner Hotel, Thurles (E41X79) on Monday, 27 April, from 3.00pm to 6.30pm. Members of the public are invited to drop in to meet the Southern Regional Assembly Staff, learn about the review, and share their ideas for the future of Tipperary, the Mid-West and the wider Southern Region. The venue is fully accessible, and all are welcome.

“This review is a once‑in‑six‑years opportunity for people in Waterford and across the Southern Region to shape how our communities develop,” said David Kelly, Director of the Southern Regional Assembly. “We encourage everyone to come along, share their ideas, and help us build a sustainable and thriving region.”

READ NEXT: Rural planning rules are 'too restrictive' argue Tipperary councillors at recent meeting

The RSES and Metropolitan Area Strategic Plans are the long-term strategic plans that guide how the Southern Region will grow and develop, shaping decisions on housing, transport, services, jobs, climate action, and public investment. It also underpins the Local Authority Development Plans.

What the Assembly Wants to Hear from People in the Southern Region

The Assembly is seeking views on key questions, including:

READ NEXT: BREAKING: Tipperary secondary school wins TG4 Irish language quiz show

• How we plan for the homes, services and amenities our communities need
• Supporting vibrant, sustainable and well-connected towns and neighbourhoods
• Prioritising climate action and environmental protection
• Building energy independence
• Improving accessible, low carbon transport options
• Growing a strong, competitive and fair regional economy
• Enhancing skills, innovation and learning opportunities
• The review will help shape priorities for metropolitan growth, transport connections, housing delivery, university‑related development, and economic opportunities across the region.

Issues Papers Now Available

To support public engagement Issues Papers are now available:

• At: www.southernassembly.ie/rses-review
• At the Southern Regional Assembly Office, O’Connell Street, Waterford (weekday office hours)
• At planning counters in all 10 local authorities across the Southern Region

How to Make a Submission

The public can share their views between 26 March 2026 and 5pm on 22 May 2026 through:

Online: consult.southernassembly.ie
Email: rses@southernassembly.ie
Post: RSES Submissions, Southern Regional Assembly, Assembly House, O’Connell Street, Waterford, X91 F8PC
Why Your Voice Matters

Early public input helps shape the overall direction of the new strategies before detailed proposals are drafted. Further opportunities to comment will follow later in the review process.

The Southern Regional Assembly encourages everyone in the Southern Region, residents, community groups, business owners, commuters, students, and local organisations, to attend the Anner Hotel event on 27 April and have their say on the future of the region.