Louth facing GAA 'reassessment' on stadium plans

Louth GAA's pursuit of a new stadium has suffered a major setback after the GAA’s An Coiste Bainistíochta agreed to instruct the Wee County not to proceed with the current plans pending a reassessment.

Louth were granted planning permission for the Dundalk stadium, which would hold 14,000, in 2020 and work was due to start in the coming days – but it remains uncelar now whether that will proceed as planned. A stadium commencement ceremony had been planned for 11am on Monday at the site.

Last month, the county announced that Ganson LTD had been appiinted main contractor for the project, with a start date set for 17 July. However, project costs are now reported to be approximately €25m, more than double the initial €12m forecast.

Louth are hopeful of accumulating €18m for the project and are hoping for GAA funding to make up the deficit, but it appears now that further discussion will be required.

Eslewhere, An Coiste Bainistíochta has given Cork GAA permission to host the clash between Munster Rugby and Super Rugby champions Crusaders at Páirc Uí Chaoimh on 3 February, 2024.

It will be the first time ever the reigning champions of the URC and Super Rugby face off against each other.

Munster played at Páirc Uí Chaoimh for the first time last November against South Africa 'A’.