Project Summary:

South Dublin County Council (SDCC) contracted Connect the Dots, partnering with Jacobs, in early 2021 to work with SDCC to design, publicise, and deliver an online consultation programme that engaged the public and interest groups about the emerging concept route for the Canal Loop Urban Greenway. The ultimate goal was to inform the public of the emerging Greenway route, gauge public opinion, and gather local insights from the Lucan area community about the emerging concept route to inform the next preliminary design stage of the project.

Process

Connect the Dots and SDCC worked together to design, develop, and deliver a consultation format that maximised engagement and consulted the community in as much depth as possible within the confines of the COVID-19 restrictions. The multifaceted methods utilised to engage with the public included:

• COUNCILLOR BRIEFINGS
• ONLINE SURVEY
• YOUTH CONVERSATION KIT
• ONLINE WORKSHOPS AND EVENTS
• VIRTUAL CONSULTATION ROOM
• REPORTING ON CONSULTATION AND NEXT STEPS

The online display of material including maps, technical documents, photomontages and a video within a fully interactive Virtual Consultation Room. The Virtual Consultation Rooms included full plans of the proposed Greenway for online consultation. The room provided a map showing the route section by section and showcasing any proposed new infrastructure.

Outcomes of the Project

From start to finish we ensured a sustainable community engagement plan, allowing all views and outcomes to be discussed and disseminated with respect. The outcomes include::

• New levels of engagement for the community in conjunction with SDCC
• Recommendations for National Walking Strategy to ensure longevity for the project
• Agreement on high level action plan