Portlaoise GAA Club Moves to Next Phase of Redevelopment Project with Planning Application Submission

Portlaoise GAA Club is delighted to announce a major milestone in the redevelopment of its Rathleague facilities, with a planning application set to be submitted to Laois County Council this week. This marks the next phase of an exciting programme to improve the club’s grounds, further strengthening its role as a hub for sporting and community life in Portlaoise.

The planning application includes the construction of a new clubhouse and indoor training facility, a viewing stand, as well as pitch and floodlight enhancements. This will provide high quality facilities for club members, players, and the wider Portlaoise community, from young athletes to lifelong supporters.

The plans were presented to club members at a meeting on Monday evening (5th May) and pending planning approval, work on-site is expected to commence later this year, with completion projected for Summer 2027. The appointment of contractors will support local employment during the construction phase.

The redevelopment of the club is supported by Travis and Maryse Knight (née Fitzpatrick) in commemoration of Maryse’s beloved brother and nephew, Eoin and Dylan Fitzpatrick. The boys tragically lost their lives in a road traffic accident in Turkey in July 2023.

Eamon Fennelly and Dermot Costelloe, joint Chairperson of Portlaoise GAA Club, commented: “This is an important day for Portlaoise GAA, the Fitzpatrick family and for the entire community. The submission of our planning application is a testament to the incredible work that has already taken place at Rathleague and reflects our commitment to providing a top-class facility. Pending planning approval, this redevelopment would not only enhance our club’s sporting infrastructure but also provide the town’s young people with resources and facilities to help them reach their full potential. The redevelopment would represent a significant contribution to the sporting and social fabric of Portlaoise and we are incredibly grateful to Maryse and Travis whose support enables this.”

Maryse and Travis Knight (née Fitzpatrick) also reflected on the importance of reaching this phase of the development: “It’s been incredibly heartening to see the passion and commitment displayed by everyone involved in this project to date. It further demonstrates the sense of community and togetherness that has helped our family immeasurably over the past two years. It also reinforces our belief that this is the right way to honour Eoin and Dylan in a meaningful and enduring way.”

For further information, please contact:

Edelman
Joe Carmody joe.carmody@edelman.com

Portlaoise GAA Club
Eamon Fennelly/Dermot Costelloe, Chairperson chairperson.portlaoise.laois@gaa.ie