The Southern Regional Assembly was proud to host the FutureECOS Interregional Event in Cork on 6–7 May 2025, bringing together European partners, urban development professionals, and local and regional stakeholders to explore best practices in Smart Living, New European Bauhaus and Citizen Engagement – key components in the effort to futureproof living spaces in Europe’s growth corridor regions.
Held at the historic Nano Nagle Place, the two-day event was a dynamic platform for sharing best practices, innovative thinking, and policy solutions focused on smart, sustainable, and inclusive living environments.
A Collaborative Agenda
The event opened with a welcome by Kevin Lynch, Assistant Director at the Southern Regional Assembly, followed by a keynote address from renowned urban policy expert Professor Vincent Goodstadt, who addressed the integration of development strategies across regions.
The programme featured rich thematic sessions including:
- Smart & Sustainable Southern Region – highlighting national strategies and regional examples of smart urban planning and innovation.
- New European Bauhaus – showcasing the THRIVE: Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme and town centre regeneration projects in Cobh and Clonakilty.
- Citizen Engagement – tools and examples for embedding community voices in planning, including good practices from the Cork Climate Action Unit.
Speakers from Cork City Council, Cork County Council, the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), University College Cork, and the Southern Regional Assembly shared practical projects such as the Cork Smart Gateway, Docklands Regeneration, and Cork Climate Action.
European Collaboration in Action
Day two focused on project development and subgroup workshops, delving into the themes of Smart Living, Inclusive Living, and Sustainable Living.
A highlight of the Inclusive Living session was a presentation by Girl Guide Leader Liz Downes, who shared her personal experience with the HiDigital initiative in Mitchelstown—a strong example of digital inclusion at the community level.
Participants also had the opportunity to enjoy walking tours of Cork City and Nano Nagle Place, strengthening interregional ties and offering informal moments for knowledge exchange and connection.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The event demonstrated the value of collaboration in addressing shared urban challenges and showcased the Southern Region’s leadership in areas such as digital innovation, climate action, and placemaking.
The Southern Regional Assembly extends its sincere thanks to all who participated and looks forward to continuing this important work across regions.
