Councillor students taking part in the Micro-Credential: Introduction to Spatial Planning Policy and Practice for Elected Members, delivered in partnership between AILG and Maynooth University, completed the final session of the programme on Saturday, 28 February 2026. The course, which began in November 2025, saw 24 councillors from across the country enrol to strengthen their knowledge of spatial planning policy and practice and to support their role in shaping sustainable development at local authority level. The final session included a field visit to the Clonburris and Adamstown Strategic Development Zones, where participants received an overview of the planning vision, delivery approach and progress of these major development areas. Councillors also undertook guided site visits and engaged in discussion on how strategic planning frameworks translate into development on the ground. The programme concluded at Maynooth University with a final reflection session reviewing key learning outcomes and outlining the final assignment. AILG and Maynooth University will shortly begin promoting the next cohort of the programme, which is scheduled to commence in September 2026.
