The GAA has unveiled scaled-down proposals to re-develop Casement Park in west Belfast.
Casement Park under the new scheme will have a capacity of 34,500 as well as handball courts and conference facilities.
Initially it was hoped that the park would have a capacity of 40,000 but following local objections this was reduced to 38,000 and in the face of some continuing opposition the proposed capacity is now cut back by a further 3,500. The capacity includes a standing terrace for 8,500 people.
The project has been dogged by controversy since the Northern Executive agreed to provide separate funding to revamp Casement Park and the football and rugby stadiums at Windsor Park and Ravenhill, both also in Belfast.
The GAA is aiming to work within the original budget of £76m and to have the work completed by 2019 in time for the 2020 Ulster finals.
A number of locals opposed the original plans, claiming the scale of the stadium would cause disruption and block light from their homes. Planning permission was overturned in 2014 after objections by local residents while there was also a dispute over claims that under the original plans crowds could not be safely evacuated from Casement Park in the event of emergencies.
Now the GAA hopes the new reduced height, scale and capacity of Casement Park will gain overwhelming support.
Tom Daly, chairman of the Casement Park project board said the new design showed the GAA’s “willingness to engage, listen and evolve” its plans for a new Casement Park stadium.
“In the new scheme we have reduced the scale, mass, size and capacity of the stadium whilst at the same time creating a first class atmosphere for GAA supporters through the bowl design and up-close spectator experience,” he said.
‘We are also committed to delivering a travel culture change within the GAA with a sustainable transport strategy inclusive of coach travel, park and ride and integrated travel choices with ticket sales. This strategy is good for ease of access to and from the stadium, is cognisant of the needs and views of the local community and is good for the wider environment,” he added.
“We are looking forward to hearing from GAA supporters, the local community and all stakeholders on their thoughts on the design and community facilities throughout the consultation process,” said Mr Daly.
The Sinn Fein MP for West Belfast Paul Maskey welcomed the announcement. “I have no doubt that a new Casement Park will help the continued regeneration of west Belfast and with £25 million already secured for a new Andersonstown leisure centre will see over £100 million invested in this part of west Belfast.”
Local SDLP Assembly member Alex Attwood said that the concerns of residents and local businesses must be addressed in the fresh Casement Park proposals.
He said, “For example - is the proposed capacity set in stone? How does the new scale and massing impact on local residents and homes? Will the travel plan work in real time? What are the plans of the GAA on events and concerts be they small or large scale in number? What is the regeneration potential of a new Casement?”
The proposed design includes: conference and banqueting facilities; handball courts; community space, including café; exhibition space / cultural centre; replacement local social club; car parking available for use on non-match days; enhanced public realm to Andersons town Road; and dedicated traffic and travel operations including supporter coach travel and dedicated off-site park and ride transportation.
