‘Our long-held dream is now becoming reality' - Louth GAA officially launch new stadium build

Irish Independent

14-06-2025

Amongst those present were Lar Uachtaráin John Horan, who Chaired the Stadium Development Committee for the last number of years, Louth County Council Chief Executive David Conway, David Rogers, Chief Executive of the successful project contractors, the Ganson Group, local TDs and councillors and Gaels from clubs throughout the county.
Louth County Chairperson Sean McClean, described the evening as 'not just a significant occasion, but a defining moment in the story of Louth GAA'.
'This evening marks more than the launch of a stadium - it marks the beginning of a new chapter,' said Mr McClean addressing those in attendance.
'A chapter where vision meets action, where community spirit meets ambition, and where history meets its future.
'Our long-held dream is now becoming reality. For years, decades even, we in Louth GAA have depended on the generosity on our clubs and neighbours for the use of their grounds for our games. We have spoken about the need for a true home. A place that reflects the passion and potential of Louth GAA, a modern stadium that reflects who we are: a county rich in tradition, talent, and untapped potential.
'We've played our hearts out without a facility to match the fire in our bellies and yet, we've persevered. We've built teams, we've won hearts and now, with plans in motion, construction underway and community energy driving us forward, we are building a home.
"The vision is finally becoming a reality.
'This new stadium is more than a structure of steel and stone. It is a symbol. A symbol of belief - belief in our players, our coaches, our youth, our supporters and our future.
'It is the beating heart of Louth's sporting dreams. It's where generations of players will rise, legends will be made, and young people will learn about teamwork, pride, and resilience. It's not just a place to play - it's a place to belong.
Appointed contractors
The County Chairperson confirmed that a Louth based company have been appointed to deliver the project.
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"After a thorough and carefully considered process, we are proud to officially announce that local company, the Ganson Group, has been selected as the construction partner for Louth GAA in delivering our new state-of-the-art stadium,' said Mr McClean.
"The Ganson Group, founded in 2004 by Paul McQuaid and David Rogers, has grown into one of Ireland's most respected and trusted construction firms. Many of you will undoubtedly recognise David's name - he has been a dedicated supporter and prominent figure within Louth GAA for many years, contributing both on and off the field to the local sporting community.
'His passion, commitment and leadership are reflected not only in his involvement with Louth GAA but also in the remarkable growth and success of the Ganson Group.
'Over the past two decades, the company has built an exceptional reputation for delivering projects of the highest quality across a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, education, residential, commercial, and civil infrastructure.
'They are renowned for their ability to complete complex developments on time, within budget, and to the very highest standards - qualities that have earned them respect and recognition across the industry.
'We are absolutely delighted to welcome the Ganson Group on board for this project. With David, Paul and their experienced, professional team leading the way, we have every confidence that this partnership will deliver exceptional results. We look forward to working closely together and to achieving something truly special for our community.'
Two Phase Project
Ganson Group CEO David Rogers confirmed the stadium will be delivered in two phases.
Phase 1 will begin on June 19 with a completion date by the end of September 2026.
It will include the seated main stand and pitch, the entranceways, auxiliary buildings, floodlights with an initial capacity of 6000. Games can be played at the stadium at the completion of phase one.
The second phase will see the standing terraces and training pitches built and the final capacity of the new stadium will be 14,000. The project is expected to cost 24 million euro.
Depending on financing, with the importance of securing funding from the Large Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) mentioned, Phase 2 will commence in November /December 2025.
The precast frame for the main stand will commence in early July 2025 and be completed, including the ancillary block, by the end of October 2025.
Prunty Pitches are confirmed to start on site on July 31 and will have the main pitch complete ready for the maintenance programme to commence in October 2025
'It's an honour'
The current chairperson of St Kevin's GAC in Philipstown, Mr Rogers, when asked if it was a proud day as a Louth man to be leading the construction of the new county stadium said: 'It's an honour to be honest with you. To be allowed to do it is an honour.
'We do a lot of work all over the country, North and South and to do this project, it's a legacy we're going to leave behind us.'
Considering where the county is on the pitch, a first Leinster Senior Football Championship title in 68 years, the U20s winning the Leinster crown for the first time in 44 years, the Minors getting to a Leinster final, the Ladies winning a Leinster title and the Hurlers winning Division 4 of the Allianz Hurling League, the timing for the Ganson Group, Mr Rogers acknowledged, couldn't have been better: 'Absolutely. It just works out well. Everything is going well on the field, the infrastructure is there [for the stadium] and we are going to get it built and it's the right time to build it.'