Shelbourne secure 250-year lease for Tolka Park

Shelbourne’s campaign to save Tolka Park has proven successful.

Following a decision by Dublin City Council, and after years of campaigning from fans, Shelbourne has been granted a 250-year lease for Tolka Park.

In a statement released to RTÉ, the club said “we extend our heartfelt thanks to the executive and the councillors of Dublin City Council for their support and recognition of the importance of Tolka Park to Shelbourne FC, the local community and Irish football as a whole.”

“Tolka Park holds a special place in the hearts of our supporters, players, and staff, and we are excited about the opportunities this long-term agreement brings for further investment and enhancement of the facilities, details of which will be communicated in due course.”

“Tolka Park is one of Dublin’s most storied sporting venues and all at Shelbourne FC are proud to be entrusted as custodians and to build upon the rich history and heritage of the ground, which this year celebrates its centenary, as we strive for success both on and off the pitch.”

Independent councillor Nial Ring said “I am absolutely delighted that the future of Tolka Park has now been secured and the capital premium payable to Dublin City Council is also dependent on works being done to the stadium is also an indication of commitment that DCC and Shelbourne FC have to the future of Tolka Park.”

Ring noted that the wall surrounding the pitch was built by his grandfather and Johnny Giles’ father after the FAI instructed that the wall be erected for safety reasons after nearly 20,000 attended a match against Shamrock Rovers.

Ring extended his congratulations to the Save Tolka Park campaign, saying that the fans were determined to ensure the future of the stadium

“The future looks bright for Tolka Park and the Chief Executive of Dublin City Council, Richard Shakespeare, who has a great love of football, has to be thanked for negotiating and getting this deal through.”