SICAP CASE STUDY

The Smart Villages initiative is the epitome of KLP's focus to explore innovative ways to develop new opportunities which would improve the economic, social, and cultural quality of life for the people, communities and small enterprises in the county.

KLP has a particular broad-based approach to what comprises 'smartness' in the Irish rural concept. It certainly involves technological and communications infrastructure, but also a valuing of social inclusion, culture, environment, and mobility in planning.

The true 'smart community' appreciates that just as we have accepted that human intelligence there are several types of that quality, so with 'Smart Villages/ Towns/ Parishes' we need to think beyond the narrow focus osf just broadband connectivity to what we will do with that connection and among ourselves.

The Goresbridge Town Ecologies planning process was completed in early 2024.  There was very good engagement from the community in the process. High levels of the collaboration with the community section of the Local Authority supported the ambitious but largely realisable high-level plan. A follow up programme of work under the KLP Smart Villages process supported the development of a much more detailed action plan for the local community groups.

A Smart Villages series of climate and food thinking events were developed under SICAP and funded under the RDP. Focusing on Food Waste and delivered as part of the Savour Kilkenny experience the events looked at the big and small questions of how we waste food and how by changing our consumption habits we can reduce waste. The seminar focused on community-led approaches to tackling food waste and highlighted relevant policy initiatives. A bus was provided to enable members of the migrant community to attend and had a good representation from the IPA community who made interesting contribution in terms of how we value food. Valuing food could be the central theme in next year's event.

In alignment with SICAP's goals of fostering social inclusion and sustainable practices, Kilkenny LEADER Partnership (KLP) organized a community research trip for SICAP community organizations, social enterprises, and individuals. The project aimed to inspire participants by showcasing innovative circular economy initiatives that integrate waste reduction, social inclusion, and community well-being. The Rediscovery Centre, Ballymun is a national hub for the circular economy. FoodCloud in Tallaght tackles food waste while addressing food poverty through a robust redistribution network. The research trip highlighted the social and environmental benefits of sustainability-driven initiatives.

For More Information on SMART Villages Click here.