Long-awaited Louth athletics track set for summer opening despite arson attack

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

The long awaited new athletics track in Dundalk is set for completion this summer, Louth County Council have confirmed.

A project many years in the making, the modernised track faced delays in 2025 due to the synthetic surface upgrade.

An arson attack at the site last week also threatened to hamper delivery of the facility which is located within the expanding Muirhevnamor Community Park.

But, in response to a query from The Argus, Louth County Council confirmed: “Works are continuing to progress on the new athletics track in Dundalk, with the project on schedule for completion this summer.”

A spokesperson explained that, to date, the current phase of construction has included “full site clearance and preparation, installation of drainage infrastructure, and the completion of both internal and external perimeter fencing. Curbs and pathways have also been installed.”

“The next stage of works will involve the installation of a tarmac base layer to facilitate the application of the poured synthetic running surface. As this specialist surface requires strict temperature conditions for proper installation, the works are scheduled for late April-early May and remain subject to favourable weather conditions.”

“The construction of new storage facilities, providing dedicated space for equipment to support athletics operations, is also scheduled to take place.”

Work began last summer on the facility in Muirhevnamor, which will comprise a 400 metre standard track with eight oval lanes; facility for long and triple jump with landing area at one end and a facility for shot putt.

The council outlined that it will, pending funding, “consider a separate tender process for the provision of floodlighting at the track, which would enhance usability and support extended training hours.”

Funding for the athletics track has been fully provided, with €1,375,000 from Development Levies across both phases, forming part of the three-year Capital Programme and allocated across 2025 and 2026.

In addition a €125,000 Sports Capital Grant allocation has been assigned specifically to the synthetic track surface, which, the council confirmed will be drawn down upon completion of the eligible works.