Limerick City and County Council is delighted to announce the official reopening of Askeaton Pool and Leisure Centre by Minister of Culture, Communications and Sport, Limerick TD Patrick O’Donovan, following an extensive refurbishment and flood-remediation programme.
Originally opened on 20th January 2008, the centre suffered repeated flooding in its plant room due to the River Deel bursting its banks. After careful review, redesign, and upgrade works, the facility is now fully restored, modernised, and re-equipped ready to serve the local community once again.
The project was supported by €1,265,750 in grants under the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF), complemented by matching funding from Limerick City and County Council. In total, around €2.8 million has been invested to bring the centre back into full operation.
Key works included raising the floor level of the water-treatment plant room, replacement of all mechanical and electrical systems, upgrades to the jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, gym and general repairs throughout the building, as well as installation of sustainable energy-efficient systems including air-to-water units, a rooftop solar-panel array, and a new biogas-fired heating system.
Construction was carried out by Martins Construction Ltd., following a design by PUNCH Consulting Engineers and Don O’Malley and Partners Consulting Engineers with Tom McNamara and Partners providing cost management services.
The facility is affordable and accessible offering membership and pay-as-you-go-options. It is now being operated and managed by Swim Ireland, and locally managed by a new team, creating more than 20 jobs including management, lifeguards, receptionists and support staff.
At the official reopening of Askeaton Pool and Leisure, Mayor of Limerick, John Moran said:
“The revitalisation of Askeaton Pool and Leisure Centre reflects our commitment to ensuring every corner of Limerick benefits from quality, modern and sustainable facilities. The incredible success of Team Ireland at the European Short Course Championships in Poland at the weekend, shows what is possible when we invest in our athletes from the earliest age. We are delighted to see this community resource return, better than ever, ready to serve families, sports clubs, fitness-enthusiasts, and all who wish to enjoy its amenities.”
Patrick O’Donovan TD, Minister for Culture, Communication and Sport officially reopened the centre, saying: “I am very pleased to re-open this centre. This project illustrates what can be achieved when Government support, local commitment and a vision for sustainable, community-focused infrastructure come together. The refurbished centre will provide improved facilities for swimmers and gym-goers. The new energy-efficient systems also fit with our commitment to sustainability and responsible stewardship of public resources. I congratulate everyone involved and look forward to seeing this centre flourish for years to come.”
Chairman of Askeaton Swimming Club, Ger O’Sullivan commented, “Askeaton Swimming Club is thrilled to see this fantastic facility fully reopen and our community back in the water. We look forward to working with Swim Ireland to grow participation, support young swimmers to reach their potential and ensure the pool continues to thrive as a centre of sport, health and community life for many years to come. This reopening marks a very positive milestone for the facility and for the wider West Limerick community.”