Acceptance that "balanced regional development" is both correct and possible
The "polycentric approach" as in developing the midlands through a combination of Athlone and surrounding towns with good transport links between them.
The State needs a counter-balance to Dublin on the west coast, linking the strong growth areas of Galway and Limerick and Cork. New or reopened commuter rail links can help achieve a critical mass of population living within a one-hour-travel-to-work time of these cities.
Growth in the northwest can be achieved based on Derry city as a gateway sustaining livelihoods in a broad inter-regional area.
Growth in the northeast is likely to continue to be led by the Dublin/Belfast economic corridor.
Development of other areas to be encouraged through integrated development plans.
Development of National Secondary Roads may be critical for small to medium towns.
Village renewal schemes are necessary in rural areas. Many submissions also claimed said the proposed strategy should concentrate more on how typical rural villages should develop.
The importance of Dublin is recognised, as is the need to curtail its geographic expansion.