RSES Review 2026

EXPLORE

The Assembly has commenced review of the Regional Spatial & Economic Strategy (RSES) for the Southern Region and Metropolitan Area Strategic Plans (MASPs) for Cork, Limerick–Shannon, and Waterford.

The purpose of the review is to ensure the RSES and MASPs remain current, aligned with national policy, and reflective of new regional priorities.

As part of this initial consultation stage, Issues Papers have been published to support public engagement.   These papers outline key issues to be considered and provide background information to assist discussion. Their purpose is to help communities, stakeholders, and interested parties prepare submissions that will inform the region’s long‑term strategic planning and economic direction for the next 10–20 years.

This review is being carried out in accordance with Section 31(1) of the Planning and Development Act 2024 (as amended) and the European Union (Land Use Planning – Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2025.

What are the Issues Papers?

The Issues Papers outline key strategic spatial and economic issues for the Southern Region. They are intended to stimulate discussion, inform the review process, and support public input.

Download the Issues Papers

issues paper Southern Region
Issues Paper Cork MASP
iSSUES PAPER limerick shannon mASP
iSSUES PAPER wATERFORD mASP

View Issues Papers in person

Copies of the Issues Papers can also be viewed at:

  • The Southern Regional Assembly office, Assembly House, O’Connell Street, Waterford (during office hours).
  • The planning counters of all 10 local authorities in the Southern Region. (Please check opening hours locally).

How to make a submission

Observations should focus on strategic planning and economic issues for the region.

Submission methods:

Online
Consultation Portal

Email

Email us at rses@southernassembly.ie

Post

RSES Submissions
Southern Regional Assembly
Assembly House, O’Connell Street
Waterford X91 K256

The Assembly invites written observations by 5pm on Friday, 22 May 2026.

Download the Official Public Notice

Public Notice – RSES Review

Public Events

The Assembly will hold in‑person consultation events across the region so people can meet the team, ask questions and share their ideas about the future of the Southern Region. 

Schedule

  • Monday, 13 April
    3pm-6:30pm
    Tower Hotel, Waterford
  • Tuesday, 21 April
    3pm-6:30pm
    Strand Hotel, Limerick
  • Monday, 27 April
    3pm-6:30pm
    Anner Hotel, Thurles
  • Friday, 15 May
    3pm-6:30pm
    Millennium Hall, Cork
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