Funding secured for multi-million euro multi-sports campus in Castlebar

FUNDING of €7.5 million has been awarded to develop a multi-sports campus for Castlebar under the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF).

The site, located at Knockaphunta near Lough Lannagh, will feature a multi-lane, international standard running track, and multi-sport playing fields with new 4G synthetic grass for GAA, soccer, and rugby. It is envisaged that the facility will cater to both elite athletes and serve as a recreational facility. 

The project had previously been earmarked for development under Phase 2 of the development of the new swimming pool at Lough Lannagh.

The project was undertaken by Mayo County Council following consultation with several local sporting organisations. 

Mayo GAA had applied to the LSSIF for funding to develop facilities at Mulvey Park beside Hastings Insurance MacHale Park. This application was unsuccessful but it is understood that the project may be considered for funding at a future date. 

Welcoming the funding announcement, Minister Alan Dillon TD (Fine Gael) said the facility ‘will be equipped with modern facilities to promote physical activity, inclusivity, high performance, and environmental sustainability’. 

Fianna Fáil’s Senator Lisa Chambers described the project as ‘a landmark achievement that will bring lasting benefits to our community’.