Research Papers 2015
Synopsis: Here you will find a list of Regional Development Committee research papers published during 2015.
The use of onsite wastewater treatment systems in Northern Ireland
- Date: 13/10/2015
The purpose of this paper is to assess the potential implications from the use of OSWWTS in Northern Ireland. This will be achieved by: Looking at the laws pertaining to the use of OSWWTSs in Northern Ireland; Detailing the prevalence of OSWWTS in Northern Ireland; An examination of the current literature on the impacts of OSWWTSs; and A review of measures employed to mitigate the impact of OSWWTS.
Sustainable Drainage System provisions within the Water and Sewerage Services Bill
- Date: 06/10/2015
The Water and Sewerage Services Bill seeks to amend the Water and Sewerage Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006, primarily in order to extend the period for which the Department for Regional Development (DRD) can pay subsidies to NI Water. This Bill will make a series of other amendments to the 2006 order, including the introduction of measures that are designed to promote the use of sustainable drainage systems. This paper outlines these amendments and provides a detailed discussion on proposals made in respect of SuDS.
Funding of Transport Schemes for People with Disabilities
64/15 - Date: 05/06/2015
In the context of budgetary pressures currently being experienced by the Department for Regional Development (DRD) this paper explores the impact of reduced funding on transport services for people with disabilities. Consideration is also given to the financial support of these services in GB.
Cycling for leisure, recreation and tourism
- Date: 11/02/2015
This paper explores the economic benefits of cycling tourism. By way of introducing the concept of cycling tourism this paper includes analysis of the cycling tourism market. Including: The size and value of the market in the UK and beyond; and The characteristics and preferences of cycle tourists.
Why do people cycle & what benefits does cycling bring? Lessons from the Netherlands, Denmark and Germany
- Date: 10/02/2015
This literature review explores current understanding of what makes cycling so attractive in the world’s top three cycling nations: The Netherlands, Denmark and Germany. Additionally, a series of case studies, from municipalities within each country, are used to demonstrate the economic benefits derived from high cycling levels.
Car free days: A literature review
- Date: 10/02/2015
This paper reviews the literature around car free days with a particular focus on evaluation studies that have presented data on the impacts, both positive and negative, on host cities.
Northern Ireland Air Connectivity
- Date: 10/02/2015
This paper discusses the UK Government’s ongoing plans to increase runway capacity in the South East of England and potential implications of the final decision on the Northern Ireland economy.
Enforcing Bus Lanes
- Date: 10/02/2015
As part of the Belfast on the Move, Transport Masterplan, the Department for Regional Development (DRD) has installed 13 bus lanes on core city centre streets. The Installation and successful operation of these bus lanes is a pivotal step in preparing the city centre for the introduction of a new Rapid Transit system. Proper enforcement will be critical to the functioning and credibility of Belfast’s bus lanes. This paper examines Bus Lane enforcement in England Scotland & Wales.
Road Traffic (Speed Limits) Bill
- Date: 10/02/2015
This paper examines the provisions of the Road Traffic (Speed Limits) Bill
