Urban Planning Workshop

Coolmine Community School was recently selected as one of ten schools throughout Ireland to host an urban planning workshop being organised by the Urban Land Institute (ULI).

The Urban Land Institute is a global non-profit education and research institute that has recently entered the Irish education system. Its mission is to provide educational workshops and leadership in the responsible use of land and in creating and sustaining thriving communities worldwide.

28 students from 5th and 6th year Geography classes took part in the planning workshop which encouraged participants to regenerate an area of a city that was suffering due to neglect, dilapidation and social problems. The students were tasked with adhering to strict planning guidelines, investment criteria and county council desires whilst modelling their 3D site. On completion of their plans the participating groups were then tasked with presenting their ideas and proposals to three industry experts that posed as county council officials.

All of the students that took part showed great vision and understanding throughout the process culminating in each of the five groups presenting excellent pitches. However, there could only be one winner and the panel decided to award first prize to Skyline Constructions which included Kate Ryan, Amy Heagney, Alannah Gammage, Sarah Fleming and Adam Byrne.

A massive thank you must go to Urban Land Institute for such an exciting project and in particular to Richard and Emma who were inspirational facilitators, as well as the three industry experts which included Niamh, Niall and Mark. Well done to all involved.