VR moving into the mainstream of Irish Local Government Planning

Across Europe, cities are rethinking how they plan, communicate, and deliver major infrastructure projects. Galway is now part of that conversation.

At a Galway City Council meeting, councillors highlighted the potential of 3D and virtual reality technologies to transform how large public projects are presented, reviewed, and understood by decision‑makers and the public alike. The proposal focuses on using immersive visualisation to explore infrastructure schemes before they reach construction, helping to surface issues earlier and support more informed choices during planning and consultation stages. Rather than relying solely on static drawings, photo montages, or written planning documents, fully 3D and VR‑based models can allow stakeholders to experience projects at a human scale.

The Irish Independent reported that, “At [Galway City] council’s March plenary meeting, Fine Gael Councillor Shane Forde proposed a motion calling for the use of 3D virtual reality (VR) and digital twin technology in future presentations for developments such as active travel schemes and other redevelopment projects.”

According to Galway Bay FM, Councillor Forde said, “Fully 3D modeled representations provide a far more accurate and relatable picture to the public than photo montages and planning documents.”

From an immersive perspective, this reflects a broader shift: planning is no longer just about compliance, it’s about comprehension. What’s notable is not just the technology itself, but the intent behind it. The motion positions immersive tools as a way to improve transparency, engagement, and decision‑making—particularly at early stages, where changes are less costly and public understanding matters most.

For organisations working in immersive and spatial technologies, this reflects a clear signal: cities are beginning to see XR not as a visual add‑on, but as strategic planning infrastructure.

Galway’s conversation mirrors a wider European trend, where digital representation, simulation, and shared understanding are becoming central to how places are designed, debated, and ultimately built.

Gavin Duffy, Managing Director at Galway based Eirmersive member RealSimcommented, “Politicians are often blamed for being reactionary rather than pro-active. Great to see local politicians in Galway, led by councillor Shane Forde recognising that technology can help solve the communication and engagement challenges in our planning system.”