Waterford GAA eye further expansion as Walsh Park reopens

With phase one of the Walsh Park redevelopment complete, Waterford GAA officials are now putting all their energy into ensuring that phase two can commence as quickly as possible.

In January this year, the sod was turned on the site, which meant Waterford played their 2023 home Munster SHC games in Thurles.

The whole project was costed at around €12m, up from an estimated €7m when planning permission was first granted in 2019.

Building costs have since soared again but the Waterford board was delighted to come in on time - and on budget - for the first phase of the programme, which provided a new uncovered northern stand with an estimated capacity of 3,400, along with the refurbishment of the existing southern stand.

That development work was clear for all to see yesterday as the ground reopened to spectator's for De La Salle's thrilling Waterford SHC semi-final win over Roanmore.

There are two further phases of the development still to be undertaken, but the board is adamant they will proceed steadily and only when everything is in place.

Phase 2 centres on the Keane's Road entrance. Work there could start in the next few months, provided that all parties involved in the project are satisfied to commence.

This stage will focus on improved facilities for players, match officials and spectators. It will include a covered 1,300-seated stand, along with including dressing rooms and an administration building. The current estimated cost of this phase stands in the region of €8 million.

Phase 3 will see the City End terrace being turned into a banked terrace with a new entrance.

Ultimately, and possibly by the end of 2025, Walsh Park will be transformed into a compact, spectator-friendly, venue, with a capacity of 14,000 that could