At last week’s council meeting, Mayor Guss O’ Connell welcomed plans to expand the seating capacity of Tallaght stadium from 6000 to 8000 at an estimated cost of €2m with the support of the elected members. Planning approval is to be sought immediately for the project which will ensure the stadium meets UEFA Category 4 standards and continue to host European matches in addition to being home to League of Ireland tenants Shamrock Rovers FC.
The proposed development will consist of the construction of a new single tier 2,195 seat, spectator stand, including associated ancillary and welfare facilities, within the boundaries of Tallaght Stadium to the south of the two existing spectator stands and pitch.
Stadium manager Nicola Coffey welcomed the decision “as part of the long term strategy of the Council to maximise the use of Tallaght Stadium as a sporting, recreation and cultural venue for national and international events”.
FAI CEO John Delaney today paid tribute to the Council for approving the development he said ‘South Dublin County Council enjoys a close working relationship with the FAI and currently co-funds the employment of four FAI Football Development Officers, who work in the community every day to deliver programmes aimed at young people, coaches, schools and clubs.
South Dublin County Council is an important stakeholder in Irish Football, and is a key supporter and driver for the development of the game through the provision of facilities such as Tallaght Stadium, more than 100 football pitches in their public parks throughout South Dublin County as well as the provision of numerous football training facilities.’
Drawings and particulars of the proposed development are available for inspection by the public from Thursday 20th October to Thursday 1st December 2016 at South Dublin County Council, County Hall, Tallaght and Tallaght Stadium. Plans can also be viewed on South Dublin County Council’s website – www.sdcc.ie and the Council’s Public Consultation Portal https://consult.sdublincoco.ie/