Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Case finally cracked for big upgrade
A DECISION to recommend planning approval for Casement Park has been hailed by the GAA’S Ulster Council.
Northern Ireland Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said she justified the call having considered the “social and economic benefits that would result from the completion of this project”.
Planning was initially granted in 2013 before later being quashed in a legal challenge brought by residents and the project was subsequently downgraded from a 38,000 capacity stadium to around 34,500.
With Casement closed and becoming increasingly dilapidated in the interim, Antrim have had to play their home games at a number of club grounds around the county that fall well below inter-county standard.
Minister Mallon said: “The Ulster Council of the GAA can now move forward with their ambitious plans for the regeneration of the stadium.
“Since taking office I have stressed the need for progression of this long awaited application
“I recognise the impacts on residential amenity from the proposed development but ultimately I had to weigh such impacts with the social and economic benefits that would result from the completion of this project and I truly believe that the Casement Park stadium will be successful.”
Brian Mcavoy, chief executive of the Ulster Council, said that the decision “will be a major boost to the GAA and wider society”.
He added: “More than a decade ago, the GAA made a commitment to the Gaels in Antrim, Ulster and throughout Ireland to ensure that Belfast would have a world class stadium to serve their needs.
“The recommendation of planning approval is a momentous step in this process, and we would like to thank our members and the wider GAA community for their patience and continued support throughout this journey.”