COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF TALLAGHT AREA COMMITTEE

Monday, May 25, 2026

MOTION NO.2

MOTION: Councillor J. Spear

"This Area committee agrees that the Council should consider installing goal guard nets at the senior GAA pitch in Ballymount Park, Tallaght, to protect pedestrians?"

REPORT:

The GAA Official Guide Part 2 defines the length of the playing pitch to be a minimum of 130 meters to a maximum of 145 meters long.  The is no mandatory setback distance specified behind goal lines however setback zones are expected.  These are normally factored into open space design at pitch layout stage.  This is the approach that was taken when the pitches in Ballymount Park were being developed.  The senior GAA pitch (pitch No 94) is approximately 143 meters long and has been positioned within the open space to provide a setback of approximately 12 meters from the path at the southwest boundary and approximately 17 meters from the path at the northeast boundary. 

For many years these setbacks have provided adequate safety zones behind the goal lines while maximising the space available for pitch length.  Where concerns are raised regarding safety zones that are no longer providing adequate protection the first course of action is to examine the configuration and layout of the pitch.  Adjustments can be made by either moving the pitch or reducing the length of the pitch to ensure adequate safety zones are maintained.  It would not be normal to install ‘goal guard nets’ where the matter can be resolved by making pitch adjustments.  This is the approach that will be taken in this instance.  Further information regarding the area of concern would be most welcome to enable the matter to be fully examined.