Redevelopment of Walsh Park underway with alternative venue for home games planned

Phase 1 of the redevelopment of Walsh Park has begun, Waterford GAA County Board has confirmed. 

League and Munster Championship games will not be played at the Waterford ground which will now be unavailable for games until July. 

Negotiations are underway to provide alternative venues for the inter-county games due to take place in the first half of 2023. 

In a statement the County Board said: "Following extensive discussions with the contractors and in order to meet the strict requirements of the six-month work programme, Walsh Park will not be available to host the scheduled inter-county games. 

"Waterford GAA are currently in negotiations with Croke Park and the Munster Council regarding alternative venues for the Allianz Hurling League and Munster Championship games and the details will be advised in due course.

"It is the intention that Walsh Park will be available to host Waterford GAA club championship games from July," the statement says. 

The whole undertaking by Waterford GAA is expected to cost €12m for the redevelopment of Walsh Park. Phase One will see the construction of a new uncovered northern stand with an estimated capacity of 3,400 along with the refurbishment of the existing southern stand.

Work on the southern stand will include a press area overhaul and roof, seating and toilet improvements. It is hoped that the project can be completed by 2025.

There are two further phases of the development to be undertaken. 

Phase 2 is at Keane's Road. Construction is expected to start in 2024 and will see  a covered 1,300-seated stand, along with the facilities that are required, including dressing rooms and an administration building.

Phase 3 will be the last phase, at the city end terrace - will involve that area being turned it into a bank with a new entrance down there.