Update on plans for huge new arena in Limerick
Technological University of the Shannon proposing structure on northside
THE Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) has said it remains committed to plans for an arena on the northside.
It comes after college bosses withdrew an application to develop the huge new structure on Friday last, just as council planners were expected to make a decision on the project.
Codenamed the City North Arena, and located in Coonagh, the facility was projected to tower up 22.2 metres high.
It would feature a 200 metre running track along with 476 permanent seated spectator viewing spots.
A spokesperson for the college confirmed that the application will be resubmitted to planners later this year.
The reason for this is to provide a fresh environmental study of the area surrounding where it plans to develop, in the vicinity of its campus at Coonagh Cross.
This will take place over summer.
“The City North Arena project is an integral part of the TUS Capital Development Strategy, we are fully committed to the project and will continue to progress it,” a spokesperson for the college added.
Funding is in place for the arena, which will be centred around the provision of an indoor community velodrome, which is a cycle-racing track typically with steeply-banked curves.
The arena will also be able to be used for sports including cycling, gymnastics, badminton, volleyball, tennis and soccer.
It will also be used for exams, lectures, count centres, dinners, musical recitals and concerts.
The development would also include the upgrading of the existing roads around the site, plus 13 car parking spaces and 48 covered bicycle spaces.