Trinity College engagement on future of Iveagh Grounds a positive step  – Ní Chuilinn

A planning permission process is to commence in the coming months which will determine how the Iveagh grounds site in Crumlin will develop, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

The Iveagh Grounds was originally opened by Guinness in 1928 for the benefit of their workers. Sports such at GAA, rugby, hockey, soccer, handball, lawn bowls, pitch and putt and tennis have been catered for at the Iveagh Grounds in the decades since then.

Senator Evanne Ní Chuilinn held a public meeting at the 17-acre site in Crumlin earlier this week, which was attended by over 100 residents and stakeholders.

Senator Ní Chuilinn said: “The turnout at the meeting was testament to the importance of the Iveagh grounds in the local community. There was huge engagement from residents’ associations, community groups and the many sports clubs who utilise the grounds, who all rightly want to have their voices heard on the future development of the site.

“The site was bought by Trinity College in 2017 and I wish to thank representatives of the college who attended the meeting. Their engagement is a very positive move and signals a willingness to work with the local community, which is to be commended.

“Many organisations have been based at this facility for decades. Cubs like Guinness Rugby, St. James’ Gaels An Cailsleán and St. James’ Gate have direct links to the origins of the site, and it’s important their voices continue to be heard by the owners and I will be working to facilitate this.

“Trinity’s ownership of the site will also be a huge benefit to its students, who will in time be able to use the grounds for their training and matches and their presence will also benefit the local community.

“Minister For Sport, Patrick O’Donovan has committed to visiting the site with me in the coming weeks and following that I will be in touch with the owners and stakeholders to work together to map out the next steps.

“The Iveagh Grounds has been a cornerstone within Crumlin and Drimnagh for almost 100 years; a place to come together with friends, neighbours, other students, team mates and opponents. Its unique location in the heart of Dublin makes it even more special – a green space for all to enjoy right in the capital. Its development is exciting for the future generations and I am confident this project will continue to bring people together as we work towards this common goal.”