Louth GAA stadium build to begin after funding is secured

Louth GAA has received a boost with confirmation that the long-awaited county stadium in Dundalk is finally set to move forward. 

After years of planning and negotiation, the green light has officially been given, with funding secured and work set to begin in the coming weeks.

It’s a major milestone not just for the County Board, but for the entire GAA community in Louth. 

The financial package to make the project a reality has now been finalised with GAA Headquarters in Croke Park, clearing the way for Phase One of construction to begin.

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Building firm Ganson Construction has been awarded the tender, with contracts expected to be signed by the end of the week. 

Speaking on the news, Louth GAA Chairperson Seán McClean said: “This is a momentous day for all Gaelic Games in County Louth.

“After years of planning and preparation, we are thrilled to secure the necessary funding to begin construction on this state-of-the-art facility."

Site works are expected to begin within the next four to five weeks. The overall construction period is set to last around 16 months, with Phase One delivering a fully modernised venue for players and supporters.

The facility will include a 4,800-seat stand, a full-size playing pitch built to top standards, floodlights, standing sections behind both goals, a scoreboard, and an auxiliary building housing key facilities. 

In total, it will hold approximately 6,000 spectators upon completion of Phase One.

“This new stadium will not only provide an excellent home for Louth county and club teams but will also serve as a hub for community activities and foster the continued growth of Gaelic Games in the region,” McClean added.

Further down the line, Phase Two will include a terraced stand and a warm-up pitch, although its timeline depends on available funding. 

When complete, it will significantly expand the stadium's capacity and enhance its facilities even further.

The total cost of the project is estimated to be €25 million. Louth’s contribution to that figure is €5 million, with €1.5 million of that coming from a new Club levy. The remaining €3.5 million will be raised through various fundraising efforts.

The Chairperson was quick to thank the Stadium Committee, Executive Officers, all the clubs, and particularly Stadium Chairman John Horan and GAA Financial Director Ger Mulryan, acknowledging that without their support, this project would not have made it off the ground.

Construction of the new stadium marks a proud and defining moment for Louth GAA, especially as its Senior, U20, and Minor football teams continue to impress in Leinster competitions.

The County Board is hopeful that the facility will be ready to host the 2026 County Finals, but if not, the National League campaign of 2027 is a more certain target.