Virtual visit to Cork and Riga!

On the 1st of April 2025, the PROXIMITIES project held a dynamic virtual study visit showcasing two of its upcoming in-person interregional study visits — to be hosted in Cork City, Ireland this May, and Riga, Latvia in September. The online session brought together project partners and stakeholders for a rich exchange of regional knowledge and good practices, providing a preview of what’s to come.

Delivered by hosting partners the Southern Regional Assembly and the Riga Planning Region, the two-hour online event served as both an introduction and a deep dive into the peripheral urban contexts of each region, setting the stage for the more immersive study visits later in the year.

A Journey Through the Southern Region of Ireland

The virtual visit began with a warm welcome and overview of the Southern Region of Ireland, led by Áine Whelan from the Southern Regional Assembly. Participants were introduced to the region’s demographic and spatial context, particularly its approach to addressing challenges in peripheral urban areas. Practical information about the upcoming Cork Study Visit was also shared.

This was followed by a series of engaging presentations on good practices from the region:

• The 10 Minute Town Concept, presented by Áine Whelan, showcased a planning approach that promotes accessibility to services within a short walking or cycling distance.

• Ballincollig Urban Regeneration, delivered by Brigh Ryan, highlighted a multi-faceted renewal initiative in one of Cork’s key satellite towns.

• Aras Mhuire Rightsizing Scheme, presented by Diarmuid O’Connell from Cork City Council, explored an innovative housing solution supporting older residents.

• Castletroy Urban Greenway, introduced by Carmel Lynch from Limerick City and County Council, emphasised the importance of sustainable mobility and green infrastructure in suburban environments.

Each presentation was followed by a brief interactive Mentimeter session, encouraging feedback and reflections from attendees.

Spotlight on Riga and Its Peripheral Strategies

After a short coffee break, participants were digitally transported to Latvia for a virtual arrival in Riga, led by Mārtiņš Eņģelis from the Riga Planning Region. His presentation offered an insightful overview of the city’s spatial and socio-economic characteristics, with a particular focus on peripheral neighbourhoods.

Mārtiņš also introduced three of Riga’s local good practices:

• Plan for Neighbourhood Centres, a strategic approach to balanced urban development.

• Revitalisation of the Vidzeme Market, an urban renewal project connecting heritage with modern community needs.

• Participation Budget Programmes for Residents, an initiative empowering citizens to directly influence local investment priorities.

As with the Southern Region presentations, each Riga case study was followed by interactive audience engagement via Mentimeter.

Looking Ahead

The virtual visit offered a collaborative platform for early learning, peer exchange, and inspiration ahead of the two in-person study visits. By previewing the rich variety of good practices and regional strategies, participants are now better equipped to engage in deeper discussions and shared learning when they meet on the ground in Cork and Riga later this year.

Stay tuned for updates from our upcoming study visits and follow the PROXIMITIES project as we explore how proximity-based planning can create more accessible, liveable, and sustainable peripheral urban areas across Europe.