Further development of the UCD Bowl
The UCD Bowl has been very successful in its first year as a dual purpose sporting venue.
UCD’s sport programmes are founded on the philosophy of providing a wide range of sport, fitness, and educational activities to meet the many needs of a diversified student population.
In late 2007, the University initiated the re-development of the UCD Bowl to establish both soccer and rugby activity in a quality shared venue.
Over fifty games and training sessions were held in the UCD Bowl throughout the year. A breakdown of the facility usage is shown below.
Ongoing improvement works have been made to the venue to enhance the playing surface quality, spectator comfort and safety, and to comply with UEFA and IRB licensing standards. These works have included new floodlighting, the purchase of maintenance equipment and irrigation systems, which have ensured the playing surface can now cater for more intensive use by both rugby and soccer.
Design preparation is underway for the enhancement of the stadium roof to improve sight lines on to the pitch, to develop the overall amenity for spectators, and to boost the match-day experience. The existing sheet metal roof will be replaced with a new polycarbonate cantilevered roof.
The renovated stadium will be a centrepiece in UCD’s longstanding quest to become a contender in major college sports, and will help to foster a sense of spirit, enthusiasm, and pride in the University. Planning documentation for the next phase of developments will be submitted shortly to the Local Planning Authority. The works will proceed as funding becomes available.
