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Border Regional Authority Planning Guidelines 2010 – 2022 – CHAPTER 1
1.6.2 SPATIAL POPULATION TRENDS
Map 1.2 shows that population growth over the period 2002-2006 has been extensive, but is most
pronounced in areas that are in closer proximity to the trunk roads leading to the Greater Dublin Area (N2,
N3 and M1), the surrounding areas of the Letterkenny-Derry Gateway, the Sligo Gateway, and the hubs of
Cavan and Monaghan. Large areas, including Western Donegal, Western Sligo, Leitrim (with the exception
of Carrick-on-Shannon and environs) and West Cavan and Monaghan have experienced decreases in
population.
MAP 1.2 PERCENTAGE CHANGE IN POPULATION OF ELECTORAL DIVISIONS (2002 – 2006)
(Source: NIRSA, 2009)
The spatial distribution and density of population across the Border Region is illustrated in Map 1.2. Given
the physical landscape, particularly in the North West Border Region, there are large areas where the
population density is very low. The Eastern part of the Region is the most densely populated, particularly in
County Louth and in areas within commuting distance of the Greater Dublin Area. The dispersed settlement
pattern, whilst posing certain challenges in terms of infrastructure provision, is also a characteristic of the
Region which, along with its diverse landscape adds to the attractiveness and potential as a tourism and
recreation destination (See Section 3.5 – Summary of Recent Population Trends).
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