Salthill Knocknacarra GAA Club have formally submitted 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 on Monday 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.
David Burke and Cathal McGinley joined John on Saturday Sport.
About the Development
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
● A long-term community vision incorporating public walkways and shared amenity space
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 previously raised concerns 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.
