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The plans for a new international-standard velodrome in Dublin have reached a significant milestone, with the tender evaluation process now complete and the business case for the project being reviewed by the Government. This development comes 2½ years after Fingal County Council granted planning permission for the facility, which is set to be built on the National Sports Campus in Abbotstown, west Dublin. The project, known as the National Velodrome and Badminton Centre, aims to provide a state-of-the-art venue for both cycling and badminton, featuring a 250-meter cycling track, up to 12 badminton courts in the in-track area, spectator seating, and ancillary facilities.
The progress in moving the project forward to the Government’s consideration stage is a positive step, though it has been marked by delays. Initially, Sport Ireland had projected that the works contract would be awarded in July 2023, with practical completion by March 2025 and handover by May 2025. However, these timelines have not been met, and the project has experienced significant slippages. Despite these setbacks, the fact that the tender evaluation process has now concluded and the business case is under review suggests that the project is inching closer to the construction phase.
In a recent Dáil update, Minister Patrick O’Donovan confirmed the latest developments, stating that the final business case has been submitted to his department and is being examined for compliance with Infrastructure Guidelines and the Capital Works Management Framework. He also indicated that a decision on the overall budget allocation for the project is expected later this year, with construction anticipated to begin before the end of 2025 and a likely completion date of mid-2027.
While the delays have raised concerns about whether the velodrome will be ready in time to support Irish track cyclists in their preparations for the 2028 Olympics, the Government’s involvement and the completion of the tender process offer some hope that the project will finally move forward. The next six to 12 months are likely to be crucial in determining the timeline for construction and the eventual delivery of this much-anticipated facility.
The National Velodrome and Badminton Centre, once completed, will be a significant addition to Ireland’s sports infrastructure, providing a world-class venue for both competitive and recreational use. It will not only serve as a training ground for elite athletes but also as a hub for community engagement and the development of cycling and badminton at all levels. As the Government reviews the final business case and prepares to allocate funding, the focus will be on ensuring that the project stays on track and that the delays of the past do not compromise the quality or functionality of the new facility.
