Calls for a Waterford City strategic infrastructure workshop has been proposed for elected Metropolitan members, to give councillors dedicated time to examine the long-term challenges facing the city’s development.

Social Democrats councillor Mary Roche raised the issue at the most recent Metropolitan District meeting of Waterford City and County Council.

Cllr Roche asked the executive to organise a workshop specifically for city and metropolitan councillors to focus on major strategic infrastructure needs.

Cllr Roche said councillors rarely discuss critical projects such as a third river crossing, a potential southern tunnel, the extension of the outer ring road and the introduction of park-and-ride facilities.

She stressed that these large-scale issues require long-term planning and sustained engagement, yet they do not regularly feature on either metropolitan or plenary agendas.

She warned that failing to plan properly for major infrastructure would worsen existing pressures in the city.

Cllr Roche also noted that projects of this scale often take decades to deliver and require early and consistent discussion.

Mayor of the Metropolitan District of Waterford, Councillor Adam Wyse, acknowledged the concerns and confirmed his support for holding a workshop to discuss strategic infrastructure for Waterford City in the New Year.

Cllr Wyse said the session would allow councillors to examine key infrastructure projects in greater detail and support more informed long-term planning for Waterford City.

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