Cllr Murray and Cllr McClearn appointed Chairs of SPA Committees

• Cllr Jack Murray appointed Chairperson for SPA for the Border Region

• Cllr Jimmy McClearn appointed Chairperson for the SPA for the West Region

The two Strategic Planning Area (SPA) Committees within the Northern and Western Region took place this week with SPA Committee for the Border Region taking place Monaghan on the 25th April and the SPA Committee for the West Region taking place in Roscommon on 02nd May 2025.

The Committees consist of the members of the regional assembly appointed by the constituent local authorities to perform functions, in respect of such area, in relation to the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the Northern and Western Region. Cllr Jack Murray was appointed Chairperson for the Border SPA Committee and Cllr Jimmy McClearn was appointed for the SPA West Committee.

With the approval of the National Planning Framework this week, a review of the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the Northern and Western Region 2020-2032 will commence later this year.

On the nomination and approval of the Cathaoirleach and Leas Cathaoirleach for both areas, Tanya Whyte acting Assistant Director (Planning and Economic Development) / Senior Planner, welcomed their appointments and stated “As we plan for tomorrow, together, with vision and purpose, we will move the region forward to help shape a lasting positive impact”.

Cllr Jack Murray spoke to Highland Radio about the role of the committee and the need to progress and invest in projects across the region. Listen Here on the Highland Radio Website.