New stand edges closer for Pairc Tailteann with contractor to be appointed within weeks

Meath GAA have received the green light from officials in Croke Park to go to tender for the redevelopment of the new stand in Pairc Tailteann with a decision to be made on the contractor for the project within four to six weeks.

Work is expected to commence on the demolition of the old stand after this year's SFC and SHC finals with the completion time for the construction of the new stand anticipated to be 18 months.

Such a timeline would mean that Meath may have to play their next two National League campaigns away from Pairc Tailteann with Donaghmore/Ashbourne or possibly even Croke Park an alternative venue for home games in 2026 and 2027.

The new stadium for Pairc Tailteann was first proposed almost a decade ago, but because of the Covid pandemic and other international political situations the project has faced significant delays.

However with sufficient funding now in place to start the project, Croke Park have given the thumbs up to Meath GAA to go to tender for the construction of the 5,000 seater stand.

STATEMENT FROM MEATH GAA

Meath GAA is pleased to announce that the redevelopment of Páirc Tailteann has officially moved to the tender phase, marking a major milestone for the project.

The stadium, which has served as a proud home to Gaelic games in Meath for decades, is set to undergo significant upgrades aimed at enhancing the match-day experience for players, supporters, and visitors alike. The project includes plans for a new 5,000 seater stand, improved accessibility, upgraded dressing room facilities, floodlighting, and media infrastructure.

Speaking about the development, Jason Plunkett, Meath GAA County Committee Chairperson, said:

“The decision to go to tender for a new 5,000-seater stand marks a major milestone in the redevelopment of Páirc Tailteann. This project represents a bold investment in the future of Meath GAA — providing a modern, inclusive, and first-class facility for players, supporters, and the wider community. We are proud to take this next step in delivering a stadium that reflects the pride and passion of the Royal County.”

Páirc Tailteann CLG Chairperson, Noel Dempsey, said:

“Moving to the tender phase of the Páirc Tailteann development marks a major step forward for this project to provide state-of-the-art facilities for our supporters and players. It is the culmination of a long and detailed process of planning and design, which was badly disrupted by events outside the control of Meath GAA. But today brings our goal of providing top-class facilities for our national games within our grasp in the immediate future. I look forward to working with our clubs and County Committee to finally realise the dream of so many of our loyal supporters to have a county venue that reflects the important place that the GAA has in our county.”

Five contractors have been shortlisted for the project following a shortlisting process which took place earlier this year. The tender phase will last approximately two months, and the successful tenderer will be appointed in Q4 2025, with construction expected to begin in this period also.

The project is being supported through a combination of GAA central funding, large-scale infrastructure funding from the Department of Sport, and funding secured through the IIP scheme operated by the Department of Justice, and own funds generated by Meath GAA.

Once completed, the new facility will position Páirc Tailteann as a modern and inclusive stadium for Gaelic games in the County and North East.