Work starts on the new All-Weather Pitch at Oatlands College

This week, Councillor Denis O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council officially turned the sod at Oatlands College, to mark the construction of the new All-Weather Pitch. The new pitch will provide much enhanced facilities for both the schools and for local clubs, primarily for GAA and soccer, while also ensuring that rugby and other such sports can be played in a safe manner, particularly in the winter months. 

Welcoming the Oatlands College Pitch upgrades, Councillor Denis O Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said: 

“Improved pitch facilities provide an excellent environment for people of all ages and abilities, to enjoy a variety of sports within the County. I would like to acknowledge the positive co-operation and contributions made by the schools, the landowner, local clubs, and residents, without whom, this project would not be possible.  I hope that this development will lead to further sporting facilities being developed throughout the county and improved health and fitness for its users”.  

The new investment will include:

• An overall pitch size of 136m x 86m, accommodating one GAA pitch (130m x 80m),
• One soccer pitch (100m x 60m) and crossfield play. 

Frank Curran, Chief Executive of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said:

“The delivery of sporting facilities is a key priority of mine and the Council.  I recognise that this provision ensures a high level of sports participation and recognise the positive impact that sporting facilities have on health, wellbeing, inclusion and quality of life. We achieve this through our positive relationships and partnerships with local sporting clubs, regional and national sporting organisations, schools, community groups and dlr Leisure facilities.”

The GAA pitch will be permanently marked in white and the soccer in blue. The surface will be synthetic turf with a shockpad below, which will comply with the FIFA, GAA and IRB requirements allowing for a multi-use facility.

In addition, the pitch comprises floodlighting, new access steps and ramps, a spectator space, a large storage area, dug-outs, fencing and ballstop netting, full sized GAA goals – permanently installed, full sized soccer goals (portable), retractable/portable small-sided goals (GAA, soccer & rugby).