Virtual reality could shape future Galway infrastructure projects under new council proposal
Virtual reality simulations of major infrastructure projects in Galway are being explored by Galway City Council as a way to identify potential issues before the planning stage.
At the 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.
Digital twin technology uses VR to reflect real-time data, mirroring real-world behaviour. Advances in the technology could represent a first for local authorities in Ireland, which Cllr Forde said in his motion would demonstrate “political leadership and technical innovation” by Galway City Council.
Introducing VR at the information and consultation stages of planning could help identify potential problems before construction begins and allow alternative options to be explored more efficiently, Cllr Forde said.
During the chamber discussion, Cllr Forde referred to a company connected to the University of Galway that could potentially help develop the technology, but the suggestion was met with hesitation from councillors.
Several members raised concerns that referencing a specific company could interfere with the statutory tendering process.
When the council seeks contractors for developments, a formal procurement process is undertaken, allowing professionals to submit proposals before the local authority selects the most suitable provider.
Councillor Peter Keane said he saw merit in the proposal but suggested the motion be referred to a Strategic Policy Committee (SPC). Despite what he described as a “procedural hurdle”, he said the committee could provide a more detailed assessment.
“The difficulty in taking the motion now is that threat to the procurement process,” Cllr Keane said.
Director of Finance Helen Kilroy said the concept is already being considered by the council’s directors, with the architectural team currently researching 2D design approaches alongside preliminary market analysis.
However, establishing full digital twin technology would be “significantly more complex” and “incredibly expensive with a lot of tech requirements”, she said.
Ms Kilroy added that laptops with significantly greater capacity would also be required, costing three to four times more than those currently issued to elected representatives.
The motion will be referred for review by the Strategic Policy Committee but will remain on the council agenda, with updates expected at the April meeting. Ms Kilroy also committed to monitoring developments in the technology as part of the council’s ongoing research.