Meath Economic Development Strategy

Economic Development Strategy

The Meath Economic Development Strategy is informed by a hierarchy of international, national, and regional strategies.

Internationally, the EU Regional Aid Map 2022-2027 provides information on the different types of aid available in different regions of the country and promotes investment and job creation in these areas.  Meath’s Roadmap is informed by this policy, with a particular focus on stimulating FDI to the county.

At a national level, economic policy is outlined in the National Development Plan 2021–2030 (NDP), the current framework of the overarching Project Ireland 2040.  Meath’s Roadmap is in accordance with the NDP guidelines focusing on investment to generate economic growth and job creation as well as a transition towards a sustainable and innovative Green Economy.

The Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES) for the Eastern and Midland Region 2019-2031 provides spatial, climate action, and metropolitan strategies but more relevantly it outlines an economic strategy and investment framework for the Eastern and Midland region.  It revolves around the concepts of smart specialisation, clustering, placemaking, orderly growth, and future proofing.  These focus areas informed the actions employed in Meath’s Roadmap.

Economic Policy is embedded in the Meath County Development Plan (CDP) 2021-2027 and the Local Economic and Community Plan (LECP) 2023-2029.  The CDP focuses on the objectives, policies, and proposals for the development of land use in the county.  The LECP provides a framework to improve the quality of life of residents and ensure the provision of joined up and accessible community services and continued economic growth.  Meath’s Roadmap aligns with these policies to ensure the future economic success of the county.

Economic Development Strategy Roadmap 

Economic Development Strategy Roadmap outlines our vision and approach to drive sustainable economic growth and prosperity in our region. The purpose of this roadmap is to guide our efforts in fostering a dynamic and resilient economy that benefits all stakeholders. It builds upon the foundation set by Meath Economic Development Strategy 2014-2022 and moves Meath forward into the next phase of being ‘the place and space to thrive’ for all, while taking into account changing market conditions, emerging trends and new opportunities. This roadmap focuses on seven key focus areas and has four enabling actions with priority areas, all of which are underpinned by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. By implementing this roadmap, we aim to support existing and attract new businesses, encourage innovation and provide quality job opportunities for our residents.

Meath Local Economic and Community Plan

The Local Economic and Community Plan (LECP) sets out the objectives and actions needed to promote and support the economic development and the local and community development of County Meath over the next six years. The Plan will serve as the primary strategy guiding development in County Meath.

Tourism – Boyne Valley

Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee T.D. launched Boyne Valley’s new, ambitious seven-year tourism strategy at an event in Emerald Park. The strategy aims to position the Boyne Valley as one of the leading experiential destinations in the world, attracting high-value visitors who leave the region feeling inspired. 

Based on comprehensive input from stakeholders at county, regional, and national levels, as well as in-depth research, the strategy presents a clear and well-defined roadmap for all tourism stakeholders to follow. This includes input from over 400 customers and visitors, agencies, and industry experts, ensuring that the strategy reflects a wide range of perspectives and insights.

Boyne Valley Food Development Strategy 2024 – 2028

DBEC – Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor

The Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor (DBEC) is a key economic region for both Northern Ireland and Ireland, stretching 100 miles between the two largest cities on the island: Ireland’s capital city, Dublin and Northern Ireland’s capital city, Belfast.

As a gateway for Northern Irish, UK, Irish, EU and international markets, the corridor is a key strategic location for cross-border trade.