Turning to the midlands, it was clear from a national spatial strategy perspective, and compared to the existing gateways, that none of the individual towns on their own would be likely to have the capacity to develop the required scale to function as a gateway and drive development of the region. However, the necessary scale and critical mass can be established through a number of towns working together. The strategy therefore provides that Athlone, Mullingar and Tullamore will act together as a linked gateway. The three towns are reasonably near each other, are strategically located on or near national road, rail, energy and communications links and have complementary infrastructure and facilities.