In addition to considering the regional implications of the EU and national policies outlined in this chapter, the Managing Authority has also taken account of a number of relevant regional policies and outcomes of recent studies undertaken in the BMW region. The BMW Regional Foresight Exercise(Note 21) involved a wide stakeholder input with four thematic working groups focussing on the competitiveness, innovation, knowledge and quality of life attributes and objectives for the BMW region. The exercise was overseen by a high level steering committee. Wide consultation with regional and national interests took place over a 12 month period to seek their views on alternative scenarios for the future development of the BMW region.
The central objective of the exercise has been to articulate a coherent, future-oriented vision and associated investment priorities for the BMW region, which reflects the informed views of key decision makers and transforms existing plans and strategies into a coherent development framework for the region.
The BMW Regional Foresight Exercise strongly endorsed the objectives of the National Spatial Strategy and supported its full implementation. The key investment priorities identified are fully consistent with those identified in the Regional Strategies of the 3 Regional Authorities in the BMW region (see below).
The vision for the BMW region that emerged from the exercise is as follows:
"An innovative, knowledge-based and competitive region with a high quality environment, first class infrastructure, visionary leadership and a quality of life for its citizens that is among the highest in the world"
This vision has five components:
A region where entrepreneurship, learning and knowledge are cornerstones of prosperity
If the region is to benefit from the new knowledge-based global environment, it must overcome its low capacity for promoting enterprise and innovation and fill existing gaps in high level skills. The role of the third level education sector and its links with industry are an essential element of this.
A region with internationally competitive businesses and a business environment conducive to investment
The BMW region must effectively compete with other regions in order to attract and retain the best economic assets and the brightest and most skilled people and to achieve a status as a net exporter of low weight / high value products. Existing strengths, such as specialist firms, institutions and business supports, can be built upon but the region must also build up new strengths, such as in ICT, life sciences and internationally traded services.
A region where infrastructure networks provide access to 21st century resources
The region requires a telecommunication and energy infrastructure suitable for the 21st century, consisting of an integrated network of telecommunications, road, rail and air services. Integrated informational infrastructures and an efficient transport network will be key enabling factors for the future development of the region. Key investments which have already been undertaken must be built upon and other infrastructural needs, such as in the social, educational and health areas, must not be ignored.
A region where sustainable communities enjoy a high quality environment
One of the key advantages of the BMW region is its high quality environment and strong urban and rural communities. The region must grasp the opportunity to create value from these factors. At the same time, economic growth must be achieved without adverse social and environmental impacts.
A region with visionary leaders and effective regional management
Policy makers must be attuned to identifying and addressing local needs while at the same time recognising the impact of the external environment on the BMW region.
The Regional Foresight Report provided a key input into the preparation of the BMW Regional OP 2007-13.
Note 21 Border, Midland and Western Regional Assembly (2005) New Challenges New Opportunities: Report of the Border, Midland and Western Regional Foresight Exercise 2005-2025 http://www.bmwassembly.ie/innovative_actions/InnovativeActions_docs/ForesightReportAmended_130905.pdf
