A high-level EU Presidency Associate Event on 6 and 7 October is set to bring European, national and regional leaders together to explore the role of urban regeneration in creating sustainable, inclusive and attractive places across Europe.
Hosted in Waterford by the Southern Regional Assembly, Waterford City and County Council and South East Technological University (SETU), the event will focus on the New European Bauhaus, an initiative of the European Commission, and its contribution to urban regeneration, sustainable development and future cohesion policy.
The event will also explore how THRIVE – the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme, contributes to the mainstreaming of the values of the New European Bauhaus in cohesion policy in Ireland. THRIVE is co-funded by the European Union and Government of Ireland under two ERDF Regional Programmes in Ireland.
Delegates of the two-day invite only event will include representatives from the European Commission, Government departments, local authorities, higher education institutions and urban development organisations.
David Kelly, Director, Southern Regional Assembly said:
“This event creates an important opportunity to connect local experience with European policy discussions. By bringing together leaders from government, local authorities, higher education and European institutions, we can share knowledge, strengthen collaboration and contribute to discussions on the future of sustainable urban development.”
The programme will explore Ireland’s experience of sustainable urban development, including Town Centre First and heritage-led regeneration, while also examining future opportunities for research, innovation and European cooperation. Waterford’s own regeneration journey will feature through a series of study visits to key heritage and regeneration projects across the city.
Sean McKeown, Chief Executive, Waterford City and County Council said:
“Waterford’s regeneration journey demonstrates the value of long-term investment in heritage, public spaces and town and city centre renewal. We look forward to welcoming delegates to Waterford to share experiences and examine how regeneration can support stronger communities and more vibrant places.”
Professor Veronica Campbell, SETU President, said:
“Research, innovation and collaboration are essential to addressing the challenges facing our towns and cities. This event brings together policy, practice and academic expertise to translate European priorities into place-based action. Drawing on SETU’s expertise in research, innovation and regional engagement, we can support the development of sustainable, inclusive and resilient communities that enhance quality of life and deliver meaningful local impact.”
The programme will provide a unique forum for strategic discussion, knowledge exchange and collaboration, bringing together national and European perspectives on creating more sustainable, inclusive and beautiful places. Delegates will also visit a number of regeneration and heritage projects across Waterford City.
Further information is available at the event webpage.
ENDS
Notes for editor:
Media Contact:
Rose Power, Southern Regional Assembly
Email: rpower@southernassembly.ie
Phone: 0877158828
Event webpage:https://southernassembly.ie/neb-eu-presidency-associate-event/
Event agenda: https://southernassembly.ie/resource-publication/agenda-neb-presidency-event/
