Irish towns are growing, but identifying change from ground level can be hard. We explore how Earth Observation can be used to identify patterns in urban development over time.
The study and maps below were produced by Mallon colleague Michael O’Connor.
Understanding Urban Expansion Through Satellite Imagery
Ireland’s towns are expanding, driven by growing populations, new housing developments, transport projects, and industrial activity. As this growth continues, understanding where and how change happens is essential for planners, environmental teams, and policy–makers.
Using Sentinel–2 satellite imagery (4–band, 10m resolution), this analysis explores artificial surface change between 2017/2018 and 2025 across three Irish towns:
- Navan, Co. Meath
- Moycullen, Co. Galway
- Macroom, Co. Cork
By applying vegetation and artificial–surface spectral indices, we can clearly identify where green space has transitioned to a built surface. This reveals the pace and pattern of urban expansion.
Key Insights
- Noticeable increases in artificial surfaces across all towns
- Development driven by new roads, bypass routes, industrial units, and housing estates
- Population growth of 8% to 33% mirrors expansion trends (census 2016–2022)
- Reduced agricultural/green space at town boundaries
Highlights
Growth aligns with continued housing and transport investment, supporting one of Ireland’s strongest commuter corridors.
Significant expansion (33% population growth) is visible in new residential areas and improved road infrastructure, reflecting rising demand near Galway City.
Urban growth associated with the N22 bypass project and development around key transport links, reducing congestion and stimulating local activity.
Why Earth Observation Matters for Urban Planning
Satellite–driven analysis provides:
- Objective, repeatable measurement of land–use change
- Visual evidence for infrastructure and planning decisions
- Support for sustainable development strategies
- Early insight into environmental impacts, such as loss of green space
As Ireland continues to grow, Earth Observation enables planners and local authorities to monitor change in near real time, ensuring development aligns with environmental, social, and economic priorities.
Further Information
For further information about the methods used to produce the maps and study above, or to discuss your Earth Observation requirements, contact us below.
