The transition to evidence-informed, data-driven planning is a professional necessity, yet many local authorities still face significant challenges in integrating and interpreting spatial data to meet national objectives. 

The effective use of national data infrastructure, visualisation tools, and a new generation of digital skills is required to deliver complex housing, climate, and infrastructure projects across Ireland. This episode explores the power of spatial data, including insights from the National Census Atlas, data storytelling techniques for planners, and the emerging capabilities of Artificial Intelligence in the sector.

Joining host Sean O'Leary is Justin Gleeson, Director of the All-Island Research Observatory (AIRO) at Maynooth University. With extensive experience in GIS and spatial analysis, Justin has spent years helping planners and policymakers leverage data, and was a long-standing Board Member of Ordnance Survey Ireland.

Guest Details

Justin Gleeson is the Director of the All-Island Research Observatory (AIRO) at Maynooth University and Director of People and Place Limited, a planning analytics company, based in Clare, Galway and Maynooth. He is a key leader in the national data infrastructure of Ireland, with core skills in geographical information systems, spatial analysis, and improving public data usage. Justin also served as a Board Member of Ordnance Survey Ireland (OSi) and is a current member of the Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR) National Planning Knowledge Group.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

Integrating spatial data into plans
Housing delivery data gaps persist
Ireland’s changing demographic age profile
National data resources for planners
AI's new role in planning

QUOTES

Data is very much at the forefront. Even at government department level, or at local authority level, chief executives, they're expecting to see metrics. - Justin Gleeson
The most important thing is coming up with the idea of what's required, and that needs to come from the planning sector, whether it's senior planners or directors of services. - Justin Gleeson
Technology has changed so much in the last number of years... The ability to build these tools is no longer a problem because it's very straightforward. - Justin Gleeson 

Connect with the Irish Planning Institute:

Website: ipi.ie

Podfollow: podfollow.com/ipi

Search podcast player: "IPI Planners Podcast"

PODCAST HOST DETAILS

Dr. Sean O'Leary MIPI is a highly respected Senior Planner at the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) and a key voice in the field of Irish planning. 

With extensive experience and a deep understanding of planning policy and practice, Dr. O'Leary brings a wealth of knowledge to "The Planners' Podcast." 
Professionals and enthusiasts alike seek to navigate the complexities of urban and rural development in Ireland.

As a member of the Irish Planning Institute (MIPI), Dr. O'Leary demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of the planning profession. 

Find out more: https://ipi.ie/

ABOUT THE IRISH PLANNING INSTITUTE

The Irish Planning Institute (IPI) is the all-island professional body for planners in Ireland, dedicated to advancing the field of physical, spatial, and environmental planning for the common good. Established in 1975, the IPI plays a vital role in shaping sustainable development across both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Through its diverse membership, which includes professionals from public, private, and academic sectors, the IPI offers a unified voice on critical planning issues.

Find out more:

https://ipi.ie/

The Planners Podcast is produced for IPI by dustpod.io

KEYWORDS

#SpatialData #IrishPlanning #GISforPlanners #HousingSupply #InfraData