The Curragh redevelopment project is progressing well and is on schedule to be completed by the end of this year. See all the latest news and video footage on http://www.curragh.ie/curragh-redevelopment/
Designed by Grimshaws, in association with Newenham Mulligan & Associates, the new Curragh will see the creation of world class multi-purpose facilities on a par with the best anywhere in the world. The new venue will respect both the great heritage of the Curragh and the importance of celebrating the unique landscape of the Curragh plains, whilst retaining the intimate and distinctive character of the existing racecourse grounds. The redevelopment aims to upgrade the facilities and amenities of the site with an innovative design that will create a sense of arrival, atmosphere and excitement.
The construction of the new Curragh Racecourse facility is being carried out by global and nationally renowned contractor John Sisk and Sons who commenced the project in September. Newly designed facilities will provide a state of the art venue to provide future growth opportunities for the Curragh and provide a flexible venue space that can be utilised for both racing and non-race day events.
The centrepiece of the redevelopment will see the creation of a major new grandstand which will incorporate five star corporate facilities, restaurants, bars and superb viewing facilities for the public. A new arrivals and reception area will incorporate a brand new visitor attraction incorporating a museum to celebrate the history of racing in Ireland and the contribution Ireland has made to the sport worldwide. A new parade ring will ensure that more patrons can share in the excitement and build up to the racing. A new weigh room will provide even better facilities for the jockeys.
Demolition by Murphy International of the old Curragh grandstand and Weigh Room commenced in January 2017 and was completed in June, while they are also currently completing the reconstruction of the historic Viewing Stand as a stand alone feature, which was first built in the 1850s to commemorate the visit of Queen Victoria.
Work on the refurbishment of the stable area is well advanced with Galway-based Purcell Construction scheduled to complete the project before the 2018 racing season commences in May
The Curragh will stage 18 race days this year from May to September with highlights including the Tattersalls Irish Guineas Festival on 26th and 27th May, Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival from 29th June to 1st July, Darley Irish Oaks on 21st July and Longines Irish Champions Weekend on Sunday 16th September
