The departing Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Economic Development and Planning with Waterford City and County Council says there has been huge changes over the last two decades.
Lar Power starts his new role as Chief Executive of Leitrim County Council next week.
He says the North Quays development will transform Waterford and re-position the City to it's rightful place nationally.
As Director of Economic Development and Planning he says he is very proud that the North Quays is moving forward, featuring strongly in the national development plan.
Sixty percent of people in Waterford City are shopping elsewhere.
Lar Power says it's not right that such money is exiting the City and he says the company behind the development in the North Quays and Michael Street Al Hokair will ensure that there is an offering in the City that will generate footfall.
He says Al Hokair have the expertise and experience to transform the retail offering in Waterford.
