Sustainability versus Viability in Increased Residential Density: Examining the Implementation of Compact City Policies in Ireland

The period from 2018 to 2023 reflects a major inflection point in the evolution of planning policy in Ireland. During this period, government planning policies related to compact growth, housing densities, strategic planning and sustainability goals have become highly centralised. A conflation of housing needs and sustainability goals have led to an increased role for higher residential densities and apartment development as a preferred policy approach. To facilitate higher densities, a 'fast track' planning system and reduced design standards were used to boost development viability. Reforms in the construction supply and procurement processes including broader urban land use policies have been relatively neglected in favour of these approaches. This research analyses the processes of policy formulation and implementation involved in this shift. A core issue is evaluating whether such policies address either the housing crisis or the sustainability goals they were intended to address. The research also examines the policy direction, influences and pressures involved including the role of industry interests and other perspectives. The research employs a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods, including a policy review, residential data profiling, semi-structured interviews and analysis of data on increased residential developments under those compact city policies.