400 jobs in the pipeline from the Páirc Uí Chaoimh redevelopment

More than 400 JOBS should be created during the redevelopment of Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

The €67 million modernisation plan aims to make the facility one of the country’s premier sports stadiums by 2015.

Former GAA President Christy Cooney was at the event and called for the project’s support as county bosses announced their expected timetable and funding plans.

Building works should begin in the autumn of 2013, subject to a successful planning application.

The plan “tremendously exciting for the GAA, for sport in general and for Cork itself,” county chairman Bob Ryan said, noting that it was not an option for Páirc Uí Chaoimh to remain in its current state.

The stadium, which opened in 1976, can currently hold a maximum of 43,500 spectators due to safety restrictions. The redeveloped stadium should hold 45,000, less than the figures of 50-60,000 originally discussed.

“If we are serious about showcasing our games, attracting spectators, encouraging players and sustaining and enhancing the contribution of the GAA to the sporting community life of Cork, then this project needs to proceed,” said Ryan.

A planning application will be made in October, delegates were told.

The project will result in a direct €22 million boost to the construction and related sectors, the meeting was told. The stadium will be part-financed by the GAA as well as by commercial revenue, ticket sales and other funding.