The construction sector in Cork is increasingly aware of the need to reduce its environmental impact and the duty it has in developing sustainable construction. It must focus not just on decarbonisation, but also on biodiversity, social value, circularity, safety, health, inclusion and climate adaptation. It is only through a broad range of initiatives that industry can achieve real change. When it comes to addressing the climate adaptation challenges faced by society, construction and infrastructure can justifiably claim to be the industry of the future. Innovation and digitalisation are key to achieving targets, as the industry leverages modern construction methods for enhanced efficiency. 

Topics will include:

• the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in revolutionising green construction
• how MMC techniques can reduce energy waste and the impact on the environment
• advancing best practices and promoting environmental, social and governance (ESG) systems within Cork’s construction industry
• ensuring continued investment Cork’s world-class research, development and innovation (RDI) to secure a sustainable future for all

Cork is facing a transformational decade as the city enters into an exciting period of development, investment and expansion. As growth in Cork is fuelled by the city’s high levels of foreign direct investment (FDI), with over 200 international companies making Cork their home, a sustainable infrastructure is crucial. Cork needs to ensure a pipeline of key capital infrastructure projects that will enable the region to invest and procure the resources that are required to deliver on the infrastructure outlined in the National Development Plan. It also needs to deliver the infrastructure that is holding up the delivery of much needed residential accommodation throughout the county. One of the biggest obstacles to delivering on infrastructure is the current under-investment in the people, processes and technology that support the planning system. 

This panel will discuss:

• the importance of the government streamlining processes within planning and delivery bodies in order to expedite infrastructure delivery
• ensuring a pipeline of key capital infrastructure projects
• undertaking flood defence systems to protect Cork’s homes and businesses
• retaining attractiveness for foreign direct investment (FDI) in a challenging international environment

With Ireland’s population now standing at 5.2 million and Cork on course to see its population soar, the city must accelerate its housing delivery to meet the needs of a growing population. Companies large and small in Cork have one problem in common. They are struggling to house new staff. Plans for a series of major sustainable infrastructural investments in housing, transport and urban regeneration projects, including major greenway, cycle lane and park projects, all aim to dramatically enhance the quality of urban life for city dwellers. 

The panel will discuss:

• the challenges of population growth and how Cork can harness the opportunities this presents
• policy and planning reform with the Planning and Development Bill 2023
• the implementation of the National Development Plan (NDP) and the delivery of regional projects

• the National Planning Framework and its impact on national infrastructural and residential development
• the impact of the Sustainable Residential Development & Compact Settlements Guidelines for Planning Authorities

Cork faces a transformational decade as it aims to boost its population by over 60pc before 2040. It has seen its Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) job growth rise substantially over the last decade and the economy is thriving with GDP growth last year of 12.2%. These dynamics underscore the need for strategic planning and policy initiatives to ensure we can accommodate the growing nation, while fostering sustainable economic prosperity. The construction industry plays a key role in building this resilience and finding solutions.

Key voices on this panel will discuss how we can accelerate the ambitions in housing, sustainability and infrastructure and how by embracing new trends and leveraging emerging technologies, the construction sector can build a more resilient, efficient and forward-looking future.