IRELAND’S BID TO host the 2023 Rugby World Cup has hit its first snag today after the high court in Belfast refused to grant planning permission to redevelop Casement Park.
The Belfast venue was tipped to be one of the grounds included in a bid but that could be in jeopardy after the court’s decision.
“Planning permission for the proposed redevelopment of Casement Park has been denied in the High Court in Belfast,” the GAA said on their website.
Local residents objected to the proposed expansion, which led to today’s ruling.
“We are deeply disappointed by the outcome of today’s decision by Mr. Justice Horner,” said Tom Daly, Chairman of the Casement Park Project Board.
The proposed redevelopment of Casement Park would have provided the opportunity of a world class provincial stadium for the GAA and the broader community in the heart of Belfast. The project would also have provided much needed economic and social benefits to West Belfast and beyond, including financial investment, new jobs, apprenticeships and community projects.
“The new stadium would also have supported the GAA’s plan to develop and grow grassroots Gaelic Games within the city and the county of Antrim. Over the coming weeks we will reflect on this decision and consider what the next steps are for Casement Park.”
