Salthill Knocknacarra GAA Club will tomorrow formally submit a planning application to Galway City Council for the first phase of the club’s new playing facility development at Mincloon.
It follows a special meeting of club members at the Salthill Hotel last night, where the project and proposed planning submission were overwhelmingly endorsed.
The Mincloon development represents the most significant investment in sporting and community infrastructure in the club’s history – a planned €10 million investment in state-of-the-art facilities. The club says the project will be transformative for the communities of Salthill and Knocknacarra.
The club confirmed that its home will remain the Prairie in Salthill, which continues to be the heart of Salthill Knocknacarra GAA activity. The proposed Mincloon development is not a relocation, but rather the development of additional, much-needed playing facilities to meet the demands of a rapidly growing membership and to provide appropriate facilities for all teams, particularly female players and juvenile teams, where pressure on pitch access is greatest.
The proposed development includes three playing pitches, comprising: one full-size floodlit 4G all-weather pitch, one full-size floodlit natural grass pitch, one floodlit juvenile pitch; upgraded access roads, turning lanes, footpaths and cycling infrastructure; provision for future dressing rooms, gym, multi-purpose rooms and community spaces; integration with a potential Knocknacarra Greenway route, enabling safe walking and cycling access from homes and schools; and a long-term community vision incorporating public walkways and shared amenity space
‘A critical and exciting moment for club and community’
SKGAA’s Chair of the Mincloon Development Committee, David Burke, has described this as a critical and exciting moment for the club and the local community.
“This project is about the future for our members and our community. For too long, our teams have been training across multiple rented or unreliable facilities. With over 2,200 members and 65 teams, our existing infrastructure cannot keep pace,” Mr Burke said.
“Our home at the Prairie in Salthill will remain the heart of our club. The Mincloon development allows us to provide for the needs of our existing members and future proof the club for the next generation, by giving our players the space, safety and quality facilities they deserve.
“Last night’s overwhelming endorsement by our members shows a strong and united commitment. Our planning application is comprehensive, fully aligned with zoning policy, and includes two full-size pitches, one of which will be a 4G all-weather facility, a new juvenile pitch and enhanced road access”
A once-in-a-generation project
Club Chairman Gerry Halloran told members that this is a once-in-a-generation project for Salthill and Knocknacarra.
“This will support not only our club but also the wider sporting community, including those who go on to represent Galway GAA, Galway Camogie and Galway LGFA.
“The Mincloon development will complement our home at the Prairie in Salthill, not replace it. It is about ensuring that every child and adult in our community has access to top-quality, safe and sustainable sporting facilities.
“This investment will transform local access to sport, health and community life. It is about building something lasting that families, schools and young people can benefit from for decades to come,” Mr Halloran said.
As part of the planning preparation process, the club has confirmed that the proposed development is fully compliant with all Galway GAA bye laws and the GAA Official Guide, including Rule 8.6 relating to the Galway City catchment area, as well as GAA guidelines governing club facilities and jurisdiction.
The club has also taken proactive steps to ensure constructive engagement with all stakeholders. This has included engagement with neighbouring GAA clubs, Rahoon Newcastle GAA, St Michael’s GAA and Barna GAA, to discuss concerns previously raised and explore positive solutions.
The club will also continue to engage with local residents, schools and cycling groups to ensure the development delivers meaningful community benefits, including safer transport links, improved access and enhanced amenities.
