New sporting arena proposed for Limerick

A FUNDING bid is to be made to build a new sporting arena in the heart of Limerick city.

Mayor John Moran has confirmed he is seeking €25m from government to kick start plans for the structure on land located near Hyde Road and Caledonian Park.

The area has already been identified by the Land Development Agency - which the mayor formerly chaired - the State body responsible for delivering housing in that area.

“Essentially, it would look like a municipal sports complex, similar to types you would see in other European cities. You need the detail in order to have some money to spec the idea out and see what you can get planning permission for,” Mayor Moran said.

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He said he is pushing forward this scheme now, as part of his mayoral action plan for his first 101 days in office, to ensure Limerick is in the mix for this funding round from government.

Elsewhere, Mayor Moran has identified a number of activities to take place across the city and county through the summer months.

Three play events have been scheduled for parks across Limerick.

Lough Gur will see an event on July 15, while O’Brien’s Park and People’s Park in the city will see celebrations on July 18 and 19 respectively.

Next month, he wants to see people enjoying the Crescent area in Limerick city, with the fountain at the Daniel O’Connell monument being switched back on.

Honan’s Quay will be closed for the month to allow pedestrian and family friendly spaces.

And he also wants to remove parking and have the Potato Market open for people to enjoy similar events in that same month.