Sustainable, Community focused infrastructure
1. Inclusivity and Community Space:
One vital aspect missing in the current plan is a designated community space in one of the opportunity zones. This space should be more than just a physical location; it should serve as a hub for various activities and services that foster community well-being. I propose the creation of a third space where residents can engage in yoga, attend workshops, enjoy music gigs, gather for coffee mornings, chat, contribute to food bank collections, set up market stalls, and engage in free trading. This space should be curated by the community, for the community, ensuring it becomes a central place for addressing mental health and isolation issues, while also catering to teenagers and toddler groups. It should be functional, fun, and comfortable.
2. Sustainable Infrastructure:
I recommend prioritising sustainable transport options, including cycle paths and bike stations equipped with water refills, bike pumps, and secure bike parking. This move would not only promote a healthier lifestyle but also enhance safety, especially with the greenway's arrival.
3. Marina Transformation:
The marina holds great potential as a space to promote tourism and celebrate our marine heritage. Emulating the success of the blueway in Copenhagen, we can utilise this area for local markets, food stalls, breweries, and bakeries. It can serve as a launchpad for unique marine activities, while also accommodating innovative housing solutions, such as "urban rigger" shipping container homes for community living in Copenhagen. This multi-purpose space would attract tourists and locals alike, enhancing the town's creative and environmental ethos.
4. Free Trading Space:
Cahersiveen is home to a wealth of artists, poets, creators, designers, and farmers. However, they lack a central and visible location to sell their valuable local produce and products. I propose creating a free trading space in the town center, drawing passing trade and showcasing the town's unique offerings. This will not only support local entrepreneurs but also add vibrancy and economic activity to the town.
5. Green Space and Urban Farm:
An urban farm in Cahersiveen could serve as a place for the community to grow food and learn about sustainable practices. It can also host eco-education programs that bring school classes and various age groups together to learn about food and food security. The produce from the farm can be sold to local restaurants, creating an additional source of income. This urban farm would also provide a green oasis for residents, improve air quality, and promote a healthier way of living.
6. Waste Management and Circular Economy:
In our collective efforts to address climate change and adhere to the climate action plan, it is imperative to consider waste management and the principles of the circular economy. In cities like Copenhagen and New Zealand, every municipality has a recycling center, often attached to a community garden. This recycling center serves as a hub for recycling, where almost everything can be recycled, and there's a space to exchange perfectly good items. This practice contributes significantly to waste reduction, resource conservation, and community engagement.
I propose the establishment of a similar recycling center in Cahersiveen, managed by the local council. This recycling center would not only be a space for responsible disposal but also a place to rescue perfectly usable items from ending up in landfills. To facilitate this, the center could employ individuals to sort through materials, creating jobs within the green economy. Items that are still in good condition can be resold in a shop, providing affordable goods to the community. This approach not only diverts valuable resources from landfills but also contributes to job creation, fostering economic growth.
By closing the loop and keeping products and materials in circulation for as long as possible, we can reduce waste, conserve resources, and lessen our environmental impact. The circular economy also encourages a shift towards more sustainable production and consumption patterns, which is crucial for our long-term sustainability.
In conclusion, I believe that these recommendations will contribute to a more diverse, inclusive, and optimistic future for Cahersiveen. It is crucial that the Local Authority Plan reflects the collective aspirations and needs of the community, engaging all voices, especially those of young people who will inherit the town's future. I hope you will consider these suggestions when formulating the plan.