Kerry councillor says ‘massive demand’ for multi-sport complex in North Kerry

By Alastair Tibbs, The Kerryman

Kerry County Council have been asked to look at developing a community sport complex for North Kerry, in what could be major boon for clubs in the region.

In a recent meeting Councillor Aoife Kennelly highlighted the difficulties faced by sports teams in North Kerry, citing the disruption caused by the flooding of the town park in Listowel.

She said there was “massive demand” for a sport hub and urged the council to examine the potential of developing lands for a community-based ‘Centre of Excellence’ in Listowel, including 5G pitches and related facilities.

Some clubs in North Kerry are currently using local school facilities for training and matches, while others share busy playing grounds.

St Michaels College in Listowel is hosting Listowel Emmets and Clounmacon GAA clubs for training sessions while the town park is closed due to flooding

Given the local Listowel Emmets GAA club is home to more than 20 teams, its currently reserved only for matches.

Cllr Kennelly said the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan, has signalled his government are very interested in proposals based around community sports hubs.

It was a “no brainer” for Kerry County Council to carry out a feasibility study, she said, given the significant grant support for such projects.

The latest round of the Community Sport Facilities Fund – formerly the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme – closed in 2023 but a new round is expected to be announced next year.

Mayo County Council was one of the first to build a thriving community sports hub through the fund.

The centre, situated in Ballina, is open 7 days a week and its facilities include a multi-purpose sports hall, tennis courts, fitness gym and a sauna.

Lands owned by Listowel Rugby Football Club were mentioned by councillors in a recent meeting as a possible site for development.

According to Cllr Kennelly, the club had acquired a large plot of land but has not been able to get funding to develop the area since.

In response to the motion, Kerry County Council said they actively engage with sport clubs and community groups wishing to develop new facilities. They encourage any groups involved in this potential initiative to come forward.