Cedral St. Conleth's Park is scheduled to open for the Kildare SFC Final on the 27th of October, 2024.
The redevelopment of Cedral St. Conleth’s Park, the home of Kildare GAA, is set to usher in a new era for Gaelic games in County Kildare. This transformation, scheduled for completion in the coming few weeks, marks a significant milestone not only for the park itself but also for the GAA community in Kildare.
Cedral St. Conleth's Park - The Journey So Far
A long standing partnership revitalized
A long standing partnership revitalized
In 2023, Cedral Ireland announced its renewed partnership with Kildare GAA, securing the naming rights for Cedral St. Conleth’s Park in Newbridge, County Kildare. This partnership underscores Cedral's long-standing dedication to supporting local Irish communities and the GAA. Previously known as Tegral Building Products, Cedral has been a fixture in the Irish building materials industry since 1936. For 19 years, from the early 1990s until 2013, Tegral sponsored Kildare GAA, and at the time it was one of the most enduring sponsorships in GAA history.
The Redevelopment Project
The Redevelopment Project
The redevelopment of Cedral St. Conleth’s Park is a substantial investment in the future of sports in Kildare. Led by the Elliott Group, the project will bring the park up to Croke Park standards, ensuring that it remains a top-tier venue for Gaelic games.
Key features of the redevelopment include:
- A New 3,000-Seat Stand: The existing stand and dressing room block will be demolished to make way for a modern, 3,000-seat stand. This new structure will include state-of-the-art amenities, ensuring comfort and convenience for spectators.
- Enhanced Player and Official Facilities: The redevelopment will also include upgraded facilities for players and officials, supporting their performance and well-being during matches.
- Entrance Plaza and Landscaping: A new entrance plaza will welcome visitors to the park, complemented by enhanced landscaping that will beautify the surroundings and create a more inviting atmosphere.
- Pitch Upgrades: The playing pitch will be extended to meet Croke Park standards, with the addition of a new drainage system and floodlighting. These upgrades will ensure that the pitch remains in top condition year-round, accommodating both day and night matches.
- Modern Amenities and Accessibility: The redevelopment will include improved pitch enclosures, a new scoreboard, and other amenities that enhance the overall experience for visitors.
History of St. Conleth’s Park
History of St. Conleth’s Park
St. Conleth’s Park, or Páirc Naoimh Conlaith as it is known in Irish, has long been a cornerstone of the GAA community in Kildare. Established as the home ground for Kildare’s Gaelic football and hurling teams, the park has witnessed countless memorable moments in the history of the sport. Originally part of a British Army Barracks, became a GAA ground after Kildare County Board secured a lease in 1931. The park has hosted numerous important games, including Leinster Club Championships. Dog racing took place around the pitch from 1948 to 1968, and significant upgrades were made in 1984.
One of the park's most notable events occurred in 2018, when Kildare faced Mayo in a high-profile qualifier match. Initially, Croke Park insisted the game be moved there, but Kildare's manager, Cian O'Neill, and the local community famously stood firm with the slogan "Newbridge or Nowhere." After a heated dispute, the game was ultimately held at St. Conleth's Park on June 30, 2018. (Source: Leinster Leader)
Over the decades, the park has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community and the demands of modern sports. However, the current redevelopment project is set to be the most significant transformation in its history. With a vision of creating a premier sports facility that rivals the best in Ireland, the project promises to elevate Cedral St. Conleth’s Park to new heights.
A resource for the Local Community
A resource for the Local Community
The redevelopment of Cedral St. Conleth’s Park is more than just a construction project; it’s a significant investment in the local community and the future of Gaelic games in Kildare. By providing a state-of-the-art facility, the project will not only attract more visitors to the area but also create opportunities for local clubs and athletes to thrive.
For the local community, the park serves as a social hub, a place where families and friends gather to support their teams and celebrate their shared heritage. The enhanced facilities will ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy this tradition in a world-class environment.
Moreover, the partnership between Cedral and Kildare GAA extends beyond the physical infrastructure. Cedral’s commitment to the community is reflected in its support for local initiatives, youth programs, and other activities that promote the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and community spirit.
Looking Ahead
Looking Ahead
As the redeveloped Cedral St. Conleth’s Park prepares to open its doors in Autumn 2024, the future of Kildare GAA looks bright. This new chapter in the park’s history is a testament to the enduring spirit of the GAA community in Kildare and the unwavering support of partners like Cedral.
For fans, players, and the local community, the completion of this project will mark the beginning of a new era, one that honors the rich history of St. Conleth’s Park while embracing the possibilities of the future.
As we approach the grand re-opening of Cedral St. Conleth’s Park, we invite you to stay connected and follow the progress of the redevelopment project. Follow us on social media (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn), and join us in celebrating this exciting new chapter for Kildare GAA. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the sport, Cedral St. Conleth’s Park will soon be ready to welcome you to experience the passion and pride of Gaelic games in a state-of-the-art facility.