TWICE THE SIZE - DIT Update - Dublin Institute of Technology

F. MIDLANDS
MAIN DRIVING FORCES OF CHANGE
1. Location in the middle of Ireland.
2. Three different towns in two counties – developing Midlands identity and collaboration.
3. Athlone Institute of Technology – cluster of adjacent medical devices and ICT industries.
4. Competition from Galway and Dublin in attracting population.
5. Bogs as a potential energy source.
6. Environmental qualities.
7. The network of canals in the area that is an underdeveloped resource.
8. High levels of student drop outs between second and third level.
9. Lack of sufficient rail and road connections between the three towns.
10. Impacts of CAP reform.
KEY PIVOTAL UNCERTAINTIES
1. Ability to retain population and encourage its growth.
2. Development of an airport (moving Dublin’s airport to a different location).
3. Provision of renewable (cheap) energy for potential investors.
4. Effects of improved transport links.
5. Achieving critical mass and competitive advantage to sustain economic growth.
POTENTIAL IDEAS FOR PREFERRED VISION FOR MIDLANDS
Brand Excellence in Rural
Living
Assets Areas with good
environmental
quality
Network of canals,
heritage sites and
villages
Potential Creation of variety of
options for rural
living through
creation of unique
rural settlements,
niche activities and
sports
Development of
excellent educational
facilities at primary
& second level
‘Back Office’ for Eastern
Engine
Location in the
middle between
Dublin & Galway
Proximity to the
Eastern Economic
Engine
Development of
various ‘back office’
type services, such as
logistics, waste
management and
treatment, water
processing, energy
generation etc.
Managed forests
197
Centres of Excellence
Athlone Institute of
Technology as a key
driver for the local
economy
Creation of new
centres of excellence
at AIT in
collaboration with
industry
Establishment of
National
Administration Hub