Funding of €7.5m. confirmed for Mayo multi-sports campus

Ambitious project for county town takes a massive leap forward

Significant funding of €7.5m has been confirmed for an exciting sporting development at Knockaphunta, Westport Road, Castlebar.

The news has been announced by Minister of State, Alan Dillon.

Minister Dillon said the grant is being allocated under the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) following a successful application by Mayo County Council.

He outlined: “This ambitious project for Mayo, located near Lough Lannagh, features plans for a multi-lane, international standard running track and multi-sport playing fields with new 4G synthetic grass for GAA, soccer and rugby.

"All facilities will be equipped with floodlights on a greenfield site at Knockaphunta, Castlebar.

“I have worked closely with David Mellett and officials from Mayo County Council, along with key sporting stakeholders, on this application.

"I am thrilled that this funding brings the project a step closer to becoming a reality.”

Minister Dillon continued: “The athletics track and playing pitches will cater to athletes at both national and international levels, building on the success of Castlebar swimming pool, tennis courts, and the surrounding walks.

"This multi-use sporting campus will be available to clubs and sporting organisations across Mayo and beyond.

‘It will be equipped with modern facilities to promote physical activity, inclusivity, high performance, and environmental sustainability.”

Minister Dillon emphasised the importance of the project.

He elaborated: “As someone who knows the value of playing and participating in sport, this project will raise our level of ambition to ensure Mayo has the sporting infrastructure that reflects the standards we aspire to reach.

"It will provide the facilities to invest in our athletes and young people, providing them with international standard facilities to train and compete against the best in the country.

"Additionally, we can now aim to attract regional and national competitions to the west, making this facility best in class.”

“This new sports hub will enhance Mayo's sporting landscape and provide top-tier facilities for athletes and the wider community.”

Mayo Fianna Fáil Senator Lisa Chambers said she has worked closely with Minister for Sport, Thomas Byrne, on this project and is delighted to see it come to fruition, marking a major step forward for sports infrastructure in Mayo.

The new facility will complement the existing swimming pool, tennis courts and the soon-to-be-completed climbing wall at Lough Lannagh in Castlebar.

Together, these facilities will form a comprehensive sports hub, creating a dynamic environment for both recreational and competitive sports.

Senator Chambers: “The Mayo Multi-Sports Campus is a landmark achievement that will bring lasting benefits to our community.

"I look forward to seeing it become a hub for athletes and visitors alike, enriching the sporting and economic landscape of Mayo.”