Dublin City Council Approves €63.7 Million Dalymount Park Redevelopment

Major Redevelopment for Historic Dalymount Park

Dublin City Council has officially approved plans for the extensive €63.7 million redevelopment of Dalymount Park, a landmark decision for Irish football and the Phibsborough community. The approval includes a €34.03 million borrowing package by the council to help fund the project, which is set to transform the historic home of Bohemian FC into a modern sporting and community hub. Construction is anticipated to begin as early as next year, with procurement slated for 2026.

The total cost of the project has seen several revisions, initially estimated at €20 million in 2016, rising to €40 million, then €56.6 million, before reaching the current figure of €63.7 million. Dublin City Council CEO Richard Shakespeare stated that the €63.7 million figure represents a 'worst-case scenario,' expressing confidence that the project can be delivered within budget.

Funding and Financial Structure

The financing for the Dalymount Park redevelopment is a multi-faceted effort. Dublin City Council's approved borrowing of €34.03 million over a 30-year term will be partly offset by annual rental income from Bohemian FC, match-day revenue, and non-match-day revenue, with annual repayments estimated at €1.8 million. Additional funding sources include approximately €25 million from central government via the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF), €2.6 million from levies, €1 million from the long-term lease of Tolka Park back to Shelbourne FC, and €500,000 from UEFA.

To manage costs, the council plans to amend its planning application to incorporate design adjustments, such as changes to the roof structure and dressing room layout, which are expected to save around €3.5 million. Bohemian FC welcomed the decision, stating that the funding 'will allow for the historic stadium to be fully redeveloped and serve the people of Dublin and beyond long into the future.'

A Modern Venue with Community Focus

The redeveloped Dalymount Park is envisioned as an 8,034-capacity venue, featuring 6,240 seats and provision for 1,794 standing spectators. Key features of the new stadium will include:

• A reoriented north-south pitch with a new sand-based grass surface.
• Two new seated stands and two terraces.
• Modern changing rooms, match-day facilities for teams and officials, and club offices.
• A 585 sq.m community facility spread over two floors, incorporating a multi-functional community room and a gym.
• A public thoroughfare along the eastern boundary, connecting North Circular Road and Connaught Street, which will include various eateries and a new public plaza.

The project aims to be a catalyst for the regeneration of Phibsborough, serving as a community hub and integrating sport with urban development. The original concept of a shared municipal stadium with Shelbourne FC was revised in 2022, with Shelbourne opting to redevelop Tolka Park separately.

Timeline and Future Outlook

While construction was initially anticipated to begin in 2027, Dublin City Council CEO Richard Shakespeare indicated that work could be underway by this time next year. Procurement is expected to follow in 2026, with completion targeted for late 2028 or early 2029. Bohemian FC is expected to vacate the stadium after the conclusion of the 2026 League of Ireland season. Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, confirmed that the project is now formally moving into its delivery phase, emphasizing its importance as 'part of the identity of this city.'