COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

South Dublin County Council Crest

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, February 14, 2022

QUESTION NO. 9

QUESTION: Councillor David McManus

To ask the Chief Executive for a written report on the development of all-weather pitches across the County, identifying sites in the pipeline and target dates for delivery?

REPLY:

SDCC's Sports Pitch Strategy examined the existing and future needs of the council in relation to sports pitches. It identified the need for 3-5 Astro pitches across the county to increase the facilities available to clubs and communities. The proposed provision of Astros meet a variety of needs, not least being that they take pressure from existing grass pitches and ensure they can better withstand the maximum amount of match play.

As part of the implementation of the Sports Pitch Strategy, SDCC has put in place an Astro Programme mainly funded by SDCC 3 year capital budget. The initial project is in Sean Walsh Park, Tallaght and this has also received URDF funding from the Government. A Part 8 was completed for this project in June 2021. SDCC are now progressing the detailed design stage and  tender documents with a view to tendering for the work over the summer months. It is envisaged the project will be on site later in 2022 with delivery in 2023.

A second Astro is being delivered currently as part of the LIHAF-funded Airlie Park in Adamstown. This park is under construction and there is a large sized Astro included in the park design. Airlie Park delivery date is in June 2022.

A third Astro pitch is proposed for the East of the county. This project is at feasibility stage, as soon as the options for optimal location, size etc. are considered and the site contraints can be explored, a programme will issue.

The other locations will be considered further when they approach feasibility stage. It is noted, however, that the Clonburris SDZ Scheme Plan requires Astro facilites be delivered as part of that scheme. It is likely that these facilites will be delivered as part of the community infrastruture and SDCC will ensure they are designed to achieve public access and maximum usage to contribute to the objectives of SDCC's sports pitch strategy.