Waterford is a county with two distinct flavours - one urban and one rural. Waterford city itself has a population of 49,000, but its area of influence extends as far as Tramore to the west and New Ross to the East to service a population of more than 120,000. Outside of Waterford City are a number of thriving towns and villages set in some of the country's most pisturesque landscapes and most fertile farming ground.

Waterford City has been designated as a gateway city under the National Spatial Strategy, and this has given it a focus for much of the activity taking place around the city.

Work is taking place on roads around the city, especially the N25 Waterford bypass. Access to Waterford is not confined to the roads, and work on Waterrford Regional Airport is continuing, as well as upgrades to the rail system to the city and the port.

From a commercial point of view, Waterford City is almost unique in Ireland in the sucess of its manufacturing sector. While much of Ireland has bemoaned its lack of heavy duty industry, Waterford has for many years maintained a thriving industrial base, centred around the world-famous Waterford Crystal plant, but also containing such international giants as Bausch & Lomb, Genzyme and others.

Waterford has undergone a significant urban regeneration programme, and has been very successful in developing the quays and the pedestrian areas, something that has been appreciated by both City Neighbourhood Competition and by An Taisce.

In terms of housing, as Waterford has continued to become a more desirable place to live, there has been an increased demand for new properties in the city. Waterford was once Ireland's most important port, and its harbourside location, coupled with a newfound confidence, is making it one of the most vibrant cities in Ireland. Waterford is a desired location to work, live and invest in. It's a city that is prepared to do business.