Significant Progress Being Made at Dundalk Athletics Track

Significant progress has been made on the development of the new athletics track in Dundalk, with the project on course for delivery in summer 2026.

Upon completion, the facility will feature a new, eight-lane 400-metre synthetic running track, a central field space, and dedicated long jump/triple jump, shot put, high jump, pole vault, and javelin facilities. The track will initially open without floodlighting, which is scheduled to be installed later this year.

Following the recent spell of good weather, work on the specialist running surface began on 5 May. Approximately 50% of the synthetic base layer and pore sealer layer has now been installed.

This phase of the project is highly weather-dependent, and good conditions will be key to maintaining progress in the weeks ahead. Any prolonged period of adverse weather may impact the overall completion date.

Elsewhere on the site, works are well advanced, with many of the main construction elements already completed. Drainage systems, pathways and boundary fencing are in place, and the base layer of the track has been finished.

The long jump and shot put areas are complete, and pole vault sockets have been installed. The central grass area is currently being de-stoned, with seeding expected to begin this week.

An equipment storage building has also been installed, while additional site facilities, including a Louth County Council staff unit and Portaloo, are now in place, with IT and electrical enabling works to be completed over the coming weeks.

Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, welcomed the progress, saying: "This is a fantastic development for Dundalk and the wider area. The new track will provide the general public, local athletics clubs and schools with a high-quality facility to train and compete. It will play an important role in supporting sport at all levels and encouraging more people to get involved in athletics and improve their mental and physical wellbeing.”

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, added: "It is very encouraging to see the strong progress on site, particularly over recent weeks, with the benefit of good weather. This project highlights the importance of investing in community infrastructure that supports health, wellbeing and local talent.

“We are hopeful that the favourable conditions will continue so that we can deliver a top-quality facility for the people of Dundalk and the wider county, and we look forward to welcoming athletes and the public to the first event.”