Ulster GAA Reveals Plans For New Stadium

Ulster GAA has revealed plans for its new stadium at Casement Park in west Belfast.

The new scheme developed by architects Populous plans to transform Casement Park with an enhanced atmosphere and iconic new stadium bowl. The mixed use facility proposes a range of resources to advance the economic, cultural and heritage opportunities for the local community.

The announcement follows aStage One community consultation process with 91% supporting the project. The design has a proposed capacity of 34,500 inclusive of around 8,500 standing terracing. The new height, scale and capacity are all reduced from the previous design, with the stadium envelope also being further restricted.

Tom Daly, Chairman of the Casement Park Project Board commented: "Today's design unveiling demonstrates Ulster GAA's willingness to engage, listen and evolve our plans for a new Casement Park stadium. In the new scheme we have reduced the scale, mass, size and capacity of the stadium whilst at the same time creating a first class atmosphere for GAA supporters through the bowl design and up-close spectator experience.

"We are also committed to delivering a travel culture change within the GAA with a sustainable transport strategy inclusive of coach travel, park and ride and integrated travel choices with ticket sales. This strategy is good for ease of access to and from the stadium, is cognisant of the needs and views of the local community and is good for the wider environment.

"The emerging design will be up to code and the Casement Park project team continues to work closely and positively with the Safety Technical Group (STG). We are looking forward to hearing from GAA supporters, the local community and all stakeholders on their thoughts on the design and community facilities throughout the consultation process."

The proposed design includes:

• Conference and banqueting facilities

• Handball courts

• Community space, including café

• Exhibition space / cultural centre

• Replacement social club

• Car parking available for use on non-match days

• Enhanced public realm to Andersonstown Road

• Dedicated traffic and travel operations including supporter coach travel and dedicated off-site park and ride transportation

• The ability to positively contribute to the local economy of West Belfast and further afield.

Ulster GAA will be hosting a series of Stage Two public events where members of the public will be able to see the proposed designs for themselves at the Lagan Valley Island Centre on 25 October, Glenn Community Complex on 26 October and Andersonstown Leisure Centre on 27 October. The events will take place from 1pm to 8pm.

Sinn Féin West Belfast MP Paul Maskey said: "There is no doubt that this is an exciting time for the GAA, all who have been involved with this project and the wider West Belfast community

"Today is a step forward that will allow a new stadium to be built.

"There will be more opportunities for residents, businesses, GAA supporters and all those who have an interest in Casement Park to have their voices heard.

"I would urge everyone who has an interest to take the opportunities to discuss these proposals with the development team on the dates set out today.

"I have no doubt that a new Casement Park will help the continued regeneration of west Belfast and with £25m already secured for a new Andersonstown leisure centre will see over £100m invested in this part of west Belfast."

(CD)