Navan launches EU-backed plan to drive green transition in Meath
A new plan aimed at cutting carbon emissions, supporting sustainable economic growth and improving quality of life for residents and businesses has been launched in Navan.
The Integrated Action Plan was developed by Meath County Council through its participation in the EU’s URBACT In4Green initiative, which links towns and cities across Europe to share best practice on the green transition.
Speaking at the launch, Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, Councillor Wayne Harding, said: “We are celebrating the outcome of more than two and a half years of work with a plan that sets out a clear and ambitious roadmap for how Navan can reduce emissions, encourage innovation, and build a strong and sustainable local economy that benefits current and future generations.”
The council said the plan sets out how Navan can reduce emissions while fostering innovation and building a “more resilient” town.
Chief Executive of Meath County Council, Kieran Kehoe, said programmes such as URBACT provide not just funding, but a “structured framework” for innovation, shared learning and delivery.
“They enable ambitious environmental objectives to be translated into robust, actionable plans,” he said.
The plan identifies nine actions across four areas: energy efficiency and renewable energy, sustainable transport and mobility, biodiversity and green infrastructure, and the circular economy and resource efficiency.
These include retrofitting, promoting renewable energy uptake, supporting active travel, enhancing urban greening, and encouraging reuse, repair and sustainable consumption.
“With this plan, Navan is turning ambition into action — delivering a healthier, more resilient future for communities across Meath,” Mr Kehoe added.
The plan was developed in collaboration with local enterprises, community representatives, elected members and council departments.
As the first Decarbonising Zone Plan in Co Meath, it is also intended to support delivery of the Meath Climate Action Plan 2024–2029.
Barry Lynch, Director of Services in Meath County Council’s Environment Department, said: “This Integrated Action Plan represents a practical and locally-driven response grounded in local knowledge and lived experience.”
"As we now move into implementation, I encourage everyone to remain engaged — working together to translate strategy into meaningful, measurable progress for Navan.”
Meanwhile the local authority added that the plan includes a phased programme of projects, ranging from smaller-scale initiatives to longer-term investments.