The Government has approved the funding - of almost €100 million - and the appointment of the main contractor for the construction of the new velodrome in Dublin, which will also be a badminton centre.
It emerged early yesterday that Minister for Communications, Culture and Sport Patrick O’Donovan TD was seeking approval from his colleagues in Government, at the weekly Cabinet meeting, for almost €100 million for the new project.
Now it has been confirmed that, not only was the funding approved as expected, but Government has also approved the appointment of the main contractor, meaning the way is now completely clear for the long-awaited velodrome.
The facility should be groundbreaking for Irish cycling on many levels, including as a venue for our riders to train and race on, a venue for major international track racing and a project that can open up cycling to far more people, including children.
Advertisement
The approval of the funding has been confirmed by the Department of Communications, Culture and Sport, and welcomed by Sport Ireland.
"Yesterday the Government approved the appointment of the main contractor and provision of funding for the construction of the National Velodrome and Badminton Centre on the Sport Ireland Campus in Blanchardstown, Dublin 15," Sport Ireland said in reply to queries.
Related News
"The appointment of the main contractor for the construction phase is subject to the successful outcome of an ongoing tendering process. Further details will be announced when the tendering process is completed.
"A key element of the Sport Ireland campus masterplan vision, the National Velodrome and Badminton Centre is a critical piece of national sports infrastructure. The facility will feature a 250-metre indoor cycling track, 12 badminton courts within the infield area, and seating for up to 1,000 spectators.
"Sport Ireland would like to thank the Government for its approval of funding for the construction of the National Velodrome and Badminton Centre, which will play a central role in delivering Sport Ireland’s high-performance strategy 2021–2032, which aims to support Irish athletes in achieving international success.
"By addressing key infrastructure gaps, the National Velodrome and Badminton Centre will provide a world-class training environment that supports daily preparation, long-term development, and the high-performance goals of both Cycling Ireland and Badminton Ireland."
Cycling Ireland also welcomed the approval of the funding, saying: "The indoor velodrome will be the first of its kind in Ireland, and will provide world-class training and competition facilities.
"It will benefit people of all ages and abilities, from those getting on a track for the first time to our elite riders who compete at World and Olympic level. With this facility we will get more people physically active and enjoying cycling in a safe environment, growing participation levels in all disciplines."
Cycling Ireland added further details would be announced in the coming weeks by Sport Ireland, upon completion tendering process.
