By Tara McCormack
ATU has successfully obtained planning permission for the development of the Letterkenny Regional Sports and Activity Hub at ATU Donegal.
This expansive 42-acre facility will be located in Knocknamona, just 1.8 kilometers from the Port Road campus, strategically positioned near the IDA business park with easy access from the N56.
The hub will feature a wide range of state-of-the-art facilities, including a pavilion building with a seated spectator stand, changing rooms, and flexible spaces for exercise, community programs, and meetings.
Key highlights of the complex include floodlit artificial and grass GAA pitches suitable for rugby and soccer, multiple floodlit 5-A-Side soccer pitches, two natural grass soccer pitches with a cricket crease, a 50-meter athletic sprint track, an indoor sports dome, and various training areas.
In addition to these sports facilities, the complex will also offer walking and running trails, a children’s playground, an outdoor amphitheater, and extensive landscaping to enhance biodiversity.
Dr. Orla Flynn, President of ATU said: “This project represents a significant investment in both our university and the wider community. The Letterkenny Regional Sports and Activity Hub will provide state-of-the-art facilities that will benefit not only our students but also local sports teams and residents.
“We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible space for all, in collaboration with our partners.”
Henry McGarvey, Vice President of Finance and Corporate Services at ATU, underscored the importance of the project, noting: “We want to provide high-quality facilities to help increase participation in sport, as well as providing vital facilities for our university students and the region in line with our campus masterplan. This facility has been designed with considerable input from local stakeholders and support from Donegal County Council, Donegal LGFA, and Cricket Ireland and part-funded by the Large-Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF). We look forward to further support from the LSSIF to develop the facility.”
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