Fears for all-weather pitch at Southpark
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FEARS that plans for an all-weather pitch at South Park could be scrapped -- a move described as potentially detrimental to the area -- were raised at City Hall this week.
Fianna Fáil Cllr Josie Forde questioned whether the project would go ahead after the pitch was not included in the overall masterplan.
Cllr Forde accused planners of “avoiding the question” and called for a clear outline on the future of the all-weather pitch at a Central Local Area Committee meeting.
“When public submissions went online, there were no drawings of an all-weather pitch or astro turf for South Park,” said Cllr Forde.
“That was always the plan for South Park. To propose anything different, or look for anything different, would be doing that area such detriment.
“There was meant to be a full-size all-weather pitch included on the online portal. Can we get a clear outline, as planners are avoiding the question?”
The South Park Public Park and Urban Realm Masterplan, being developed by Galway City Council, proposes improvements to South Park and the surrounding Claddagh area.
The project completed its public consultation phase, with an online survey open from late August to October 2025.
Earlier discussions included a possible all-weather sports pitch, but this proved controversial due to concerns about the loss of open green space, and it is not currently confirmed in the draft concept designs.
Officials confirmed at the meeting that environmental assessments will decide the future of the pitch.
Elected members heard that surveys are ongoing and that “we have to go on what comes back”.
Officials said the area supports large numbers of wintering birds and confirmed that an overall plan will be drawn up based on public feedback.
The council is now reviewing submissions as it works to refine a preferred plan.
They added that South Park is beside a Special Area of Conservation and that the council must meet its legal obligations under EU environmental laws.
“We are trying to complete that process,” they said. “We have no definite answers as work is still ongoing.”
Meanwhile, Cllr Forde criticised the overall condition of South Park –officials confirmed that weeds growing in paved areas will be addressed as part of their works programme.