The Limerick Regional Athletics Hub in Newcastle West is nearing completion, Limerick City and County Council can confirm.
The date for the final layering of the track surface will now take place in the Spring of 2023.
The process of applying the final layer to World Athletics standard track is weather dependent. A significant increase in rainfall in September 2022, means the climate conditions are now not conducive to laying the final layer before the spring.
Gordon Daly, Director of Community, Tourism and Culture with Limerick City and County Council said: “The inclement weather has put a stall on the final layer of the track. However the delay until Spring 2023, is necessary to ensure this top class facility is built and maintained to the highest possible standard.”
Ben Noonan, Senior Executive Engineer with Limerick City and County Council added: “Laying a sports track surface of this standard requires specific climatic conditions. September 2022 had 44% more rainfall when compared to September 2021 and a 148% more than 2020. In order to ensure we have a track to the highest of standards we must adhere to best practice and expertise thus lay the track when the weather conditions are conducive to doing so. All other works on the site will be completed by the end of 2022”
The facility will contain the following:
- Athletics track to international World Athletics standard
- Floodlights for the track and a fully lit walking path on the track perimeter.
- Field sports such as shot putt, discuss, hammer, javelin, long jump, high jump and pole vault.
- Car, bus and bicycle parking along with toilets and water point.
The facility is funded by:
- Limerick City and County Council.
- Large-Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund, which is part of Project Ireland 2040 administered by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.
- Hinterland funding has been received from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
- JP McManus Benevolent Fund.
- ESB Community Windfarm Fund.