A new community centre for Newcastle has taken a major step forward — after five decades of campaigning.

This week, Galway City Council formally approved the Part 8 planning report, clearing the way for construction to begin.

The two-storey centre will include meeting rooms, a sports and general-purpose hall, an AstroTurf pitch, and a play area.

The site is located beside the existing Croí Building and Galway Educate Together National School, accessible via Moyola Park Road.

The detailed design for the centre is now complete, and the Council will invite construction bids through E-Tenders, with work expected to start in early 2026.

Councillors praised the determination of the Newcastle community, highlighting the decades of effort and perseverance that have brought the project to this stage.

Independent Cllr Terry O’Flaherty said the project “is one of perseverance.”

“It has been ongoing for 50 years,” she said, “where they have been crying out for a facility. It is now shovel ready and it is important for the Newcastle community to continue to thrive.”

Cllr Donal Lyons (Ind) added that “I am happy to support this.”

“It has been many years since the committee was formed in Newcastle,” he continued.

“The people have been steadfast over the years, and now the planning application is going forward. This will be a fabulous facility for the area.”

Cllr Eddie Hoare (FG) described the project as “transformative” and “shows what can be achieved,” urging that it continue to be prioritised.

Galway City Mayor, Mike Cubbard (Ind), welcomed the development, noting that it had been “nearly 50 years in the pipeline” and that access to community centres would benefit both young and old.

He praised the team and committee, saying it “shows what can happen when political representatives work as one”.

Cllr John McDonagh (Lab) described it as a “very important facility for Newcastle, Westside and the wider community”, echoing sentiments that it “shows what perseverance can do”.

Cllr Aisling Burke (Sinn Féin) asked about accessibility near St Joseph’s Special School, enquiring whether pathways, seating, and benches would accommodate wheelchair users.

Director of Services, Derek Pender, confirmed that the building and outdoor areas “will be accessible for all,” and praised the Newcastle Community Centre committee for their advocacy and dedication.

No public submissions were received during the Part 8 process, and the scheme has been deemed fully consistent with the Galway City Development Plan 2023–2029.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.

Pictured: Big step forward: the planned Newcastle Community Centre.