Major milestone for Claremorris project

The long-discussed plans for a Community Sports and Recreational Centre in Claremorris have moved to a new stage with the submission of a planning application to Mayo County Council. This latest step follows a period of activity during 2025 that has included a major fundraising event and the completion of the first phase of a feasibility study.

The committee behind the initiative has been seeking to establish a facility that can meet the needs of local clubs, youth organisations and community groups, as well as attracting regional sporting activity. The submission of a formal planning application is described by the group as a milestone that places the project in a position to seek state support when funding streams become available.

The proposed development is designed to serve as a multi-use hub. Current plans include a modern indoor sports hall, changing facilities, a dedicated space for youth groups, and multi-functional rooms that could host workshops, community meetings and events. The design emphasises accessibility and sustainability, with the intention that it will operate as a long-term resource for both Claremorris and the surrounding area.

According to Catriona Doherty, co-chair of the project committee, the speed with which the project has advanced reflects the demand for a new facility rather than simply the commitment of those involved.

“The committee was only formally established in June of last year, yet within 14 months has secured community backing, initiated studies and consultations, and reached the planning stage,” she told the Western People.

“We have had fantastic response from national organisations, and they have even promised to run national events in the facility once it is completed.” 

Catriona also highlighted the absence of a space in Claremorris that caters for certain sports and community activities. She also suggested that the new facility could enable the formation of additional clubs while giving existing youth and community organisations a dedicated location to operate from.

The committee has formally acknowledged the support received from Claremorris GAA Club, which has donated the land for the development, and from Waldron and Associates, who prepared the architectural design and planning documentation without charge.

The most visible demonstration of local support to date came earlier this year with the Lip Sync Battle fundraiser. The event grossed more than €153,000, a figure that the organisers interpret as evidence of strong buy-in from individuals, local businesses and regional partners. The money raised has been critical in advancing the project to its present stage.

A feasibility study conducted by consultants PMG Consult has provided additional evidence of both the demand for the facility and its viability. Phase one of the study included consultation with community members, clubs, public representatives and national sporting bodies. It also gathered survey data to measure interest in the proposed facility and to identify which sports are most likely to make use of it.

The study found that 87% of respondents considered a new indoor sports and recreational facility either critically needed or important and needed. Over 60% reported that they currently travel outside Claremorris to use similar facilities. Indoor soccer, basketball, volleyball and badminton were identified as the most popular sports for which there is no suitable venue within the town at present.

In addition to quantifying demand, the consultants highlighted the potential for the development to enable the creation of new clubs in Claremorris. At least two or three new clubs could become viable with access to appropriate facilities.

Basketball Ireland and Badminton Ireland have both given formal support to the project. Each organisation has stated that they would use the centre for regional games and training and may even consider it for international sessions. They have also pointed to the potential for the facility to expand participation, encouraging people of all abilities and backgrounds to become involved in sport.

Public officials at both local and national level have also expressed support. Written submissions have described the project as a development that could bring long-term benefits to Claremorris and the wider area by providing infrastructure for sport, youth activities and community use.

The committee is continuing to raise funds through events and sponsorship efforts. It is also seeking to strengthen partnerships with Mayo County Council, government departments and business interests. According to the committee, a combination of community fundraising, state support and private sponsorship will be required if the project is to be completed.

Feasibility study 

The feasibility study produced by PMG Consult provides a detailed profile of the town and its needs. The consultants note that Claremorris has experienced population growth well above regional and national averages. Between 2016 and 2022, its population grew by more than 30%, making it the fastest growing town in the Western Region. The town’s location at the crossroads of the N17 and N60 places it within an hour of most parts of the province, strengthening the case for a regional-scale facility.

The study identifies a mismatch between the size and growth of the population and the level of existing facilities. While participation in sport and recreation has increased, and new clubs and groups have been formed, indoor facilities have not expanded to meet that demand. This has resulted in a shortage of space for both sporting and non-sporting community activities.

A community survey carried out in early 2025 provides additional data. Respondents identified indoor soccer, basketball, volleyball and badminton as the most sought-after sports, none of which can currently be accommodated in Claremorris. The survey also confirmed that most people currently involved in sport and recreation must travel to nearby towns for access to facilities.

The consultants also examined the role that a facility of this kind could play in promoting social cohesion and integration. They concluded that the centre would not only meet sporting needs but also provide a focal point for groups seeking to hold meetings, youth activities or cultural events. They note that the number of clubs in the area has increased in recent years, particularly in underage sport and in women’s participation, without any parallel increase in facilities.

The committee has described the process as one of steady progress, supported by strong community backing. While the submission of the planning application marks a significant milestone, much work remains in securing finance and completing the design and approval stages. Over the coming months, the group intends to continue its engagement with stakeholders and pursue funding options, while also preparing for the second phase of the feasibility study.

The group has encouraged members of the public to remain engaged with the process, attend upcoming fundraising events, and follow updates through its website and the local press.

The intended outcome is the development of a facility that can function as a sustainable hub for Claremorris. In practical terms, this would mean year-round access to indoor sport, new opportunities for youth organisations, and a venue for community gatherings. In broader terms, the facility is seen as contributing to the town’s regeneration, its role as a regional centre, and its attractiveness as a place to live and work.

While the scale of the project requires significant investment, the committee has argued that the demonstrated need, combined with community support and the strategic position of Claremorris, creates a strong case for public funding. National sporting bodies have reinforced this argument, indicating that the development could fill a gap in regional infrastructure.

As the planning application progresses through Mayo County Council, the committee will continue its fundraising activities and outreach. The timeline for completion will depend on the planning process, funding approvals, and construction schedules, but the submission of the application is regarded by those involved as a key step towards eventual delivery.

The project remains at a formative stage, but the combination of survey data, consultant analysis, and public support has created momentum. Whether that momentum can be sustained through to construction and operation will depend on the committee’s ability to maintain engagement, secure finance, and manage the complex process of delivering a facility of this scale. If they continue along established lines, that will be no bother to them.