Portlaw is a suitable location for additional residential development, as it is located close to the N24, Waterford to Limerick Route.  (Download  portlaw_area_plan (adobe .pdf, 541 kbs)  Map Here) and also download the pages relating to Zoning Objectives (word .doc, 183 kbs) . The Zoning Objectives and Landuse Zoning Matrix need to be used when looking at the individual settlement zonings.

Portlaw has a wide service base. The range of services available has improved in recent years and it is now more than sufficient to meet the needs of the local Population.

The town has adequate sanitary services. It has a modern sewage treatment system with spare capacity.  It is proposed to provide dewatering facilities for sludges (from the area) at the wastewater treatment plant.

In addition, it is proposed to upgrade the water supply to the town by connecting the system to the East Waterford Regional Water Supply Scheme. It is Council policy to optimise their returns from this infrastructure by encouraging an increase in residential and commercial development in the town.

The proximity of Portlaw to Waterford City, Carrick-on-Suir and Kilmacthomas provides opportunities to establish public transport routes between these locations. Given the rich history and heritage of Portlaw, the Council intends to examine the possibility of establishing a tourism industry in the town. This will be achieved by working closely with statutory and voluntary interests to develop the necessary facilities and by marketing Portlaw as a tourist destination.

It is a specific objective of Waterford County Council within the lifetime of this Plan, to confirm the designation of the core area of Portlaw as an ACA, in accordance with the Heritage Conservation Plan for Portlaw, which has been formally adopted by the Local Authority.

In consultation with the Conservation Officer, the Council will commence procedures for adding to the Record of Protected Structures (RPS), those structures recommended for inclusion as per the Portlaw Conservation Plan: (Springfield House, Woodview House, Shaw's Spout, Mercy Convent, Mayfield Supply Store, 'Laundry', 'Dispensary', former Post Office in Market Square, Hospital, Almhouses, Portlaw Bridge, Old Footbridge and River Walls along Bridge Street.)

The development strategy for Portlaw is detailed in the 2002 Portlaw Local Area Plan.