A case study of Letterkenny in 2020: a scenario planning approach

Abstract

The objective o f this research was to explore possible futures for the town o f Letterkenny towards 2020 using a scenario planning approach. A six stage modified scenario development design was applied to develop a series o f scenario statements. The scenario includes six sub-scenarios: social cohesion; the business community and labour market; education; regional development; government policy; and the external environment. These sub-scenarios provide an account o f possible, plausible futures for Letterkenny. The purpose o f this study is to generate discussion and inform planning and policy development within the region. Jntenñews were conducted with experts to enable the designation o f the scenarios. Following this, two questionnaires were distributed: one investigating the practice o f managing town centres in Northern Ireland and the second’ a scenario statement questionnaire, testing possible scenarios fo r Letterkenny in 2020. This was follow ed by the presentation o f the findings to a focus group to enable the writing o f the final scenario for Letterkenny in 2020. This research indicates that Letterkenny has undergone radical change during the Celtic Tiger years. However, since the economic crisis Letterkenny is now facing a period o f further change. This research facilitated the collection o f a broad range o f ideas and knowledge which will help policy makers develop appropriate responses to current economic developments. The results o f this study will also have value for other urban areas who are trying to respond to the challenges o f post Celtic Tiger Ireland.