Galway City Council welcomes the announcement by Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan TD, of €3.25m in additional Government support to progress the long-awaited Galway Regional Aquatic Project.
The proposed allocation will close the remaining funding gap identified by Galway City Council, enabling the project to move toward the construction phase — subject to completion of due diligence, final business case approval and tender documentation.
The project represents one of the most significant regional sports infrastructure investments proposed for the west of Ireland, delivering a competition-standard 35m pool, adjustable-depth floor, sports hall, gym, spectator facilities, sauna and steam room, and a range of community and public spaces, alongside upgraded cycling and pedestrian access routes.
Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard:
“This is an exciting and important development for Galway. The advancement of the Regional Aquatic Project demonstrates our ambition to enhance the range and quality of amenities available to our communities, sports clubs and schools. It will provide a modern, inclusive space for recreation, training and competition, and will be a source of pride for the city and the wider region for many years to come.”
Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive, Galway City Council said:
“Reaching this point is a significant milestone and reflects the sustained effort of all involved in progressing this project. Special thanks to Minister Patrick O'Donavan TD and his Oireachtas colleagues for the national investment in this project. The Council is focused on ensuring that the development moves forward in a carefully managed and structured way, delivering a high-quality facility that meets the needs of a growing city. We are committed to maintaining that progress as the project advances to the next stage.”
Minister Patrick O’Donovan said:
“This is a transformational project for Galway and for the wider West of Ireland. Modern, competition-standard aquatic facilities of this scale have been needed for many years, and today’s announcement is a major step towards making them a reality. The proposed additional €3.25 million will help bridge the final funding gap and move the project closer to construction.
“This investment is about far more than elite sport. It is about children learning to swim, clubs growing, and communities having access to high-quality facilities that support healthier, more active lives. It also reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring communities across the country have access to modern sports infrastructure that supports participation at every level.”
Helen Kilroy, Director of Finance, Galway City Council, said:
“This proposed additional funding is a hugely welcome and important step in progressing the Galway Regional Aquatic Project. It reflects strong collaboration between Galway City Council and Government and brings the project significantly closer to delivery.
There has long been a clear need for a state-of-the-art aquatic and sports facility in Galway to serve our growing population, sports clubs and schools. The project will be a transformative addition to the regions sports infrastructure and sends a positive message about the importance of health and wellbeing in our city.”