*The Business Improvement District’s Budget 2025 submission details proposals for sustainable growth and innovation across sectors and supporting businesses contending with rising costs
Sandyford Business District (SBD), Ireland’s largest Business Improvement District, has launched its pre-Budget 2025 submission, calling on the Government to invest the €13 billion Apple windfall in critical infrastructure projects to futureproof development of the country. The organisation asserts this public investment is essential to addressing Ireland’s housing and transport deficits.
In its Budget submission, SBD also maintains that priority must be given to alleviating business costs, and boosting long-term competitiveness through upskilling and innovation, and addressing inflationary pressures on businesses. Combined, these actions can lead to increased productivity and growth. Among the key recommendations in SBD’s Budget 2025 submission include:
- Infrastructural Investment: Dedicate the Apple tax windfall to long-term projects such as sustainable transport systems, the extension of the MetroLink to Sandyford, and the creation of residential units, accompanied by public green spaces and amenities such as sports and community complexes.
- Addressing the Housing Crisis: Accelerate the development of affordable residential units to accommodate the growing population, support economic growth, and maintain Ireland’s appeal to FDI, multinationals, and SMEs alike.
- Invest in Workforce Upskilling: Develop targeted programmes focused on digitisation, cybersecurity, and innovation to ensure Ireland’s labour force remains competitive, adaptable, and equipped to meet evolving industry demands.
SBD’s recommendations are made in the context of evolving geopolitical and economic challenges, such as rising inflation, labour shortages, Ireland’s changing corporate tax environment, and the ongoing need to reduce carbon emissions. By focusing on infrastructure, the Government can secure Ireland’s long-term prosperity and effectively address these challenges.
Ger Corbett, CEO of Sandyford Business District said: “As home to 1000 businesses we know that futureproofing our businesses needs is essential to help position Ireland for continued growth and prosperity in an evolving world. Without the necessary investment in state infrastructure, we will impact our future economic resilience jeopardise the strong FDI record we have boasted of for decades.
“Budget 2025 is a critical opportunity to invest in Ireland’s long-term competitiveness. We believe that using the Apple windfall to address critical infrastructure gaps will enable the Government to safeguard Ireland’s long-term economic prosperity and ease current inflationary pressures. This will allow businesses to thrive, attract top talent, and remain competitive on the global stage. By extension, Sandyford Business District, and Ireland, will maintain their reputation as a world-class destination to live, work, and conduct business in.”