Game, set, match: New courts open at local sports hub

Two brand new all-weather tennis courts have officially opened at the Sport Ireland Campus in Blanchardstown, further strengthening the site’s status as one of Ireland’s premier destinations for sport and physical activity.

With a cutting-edge Poraflex surface made from recycled rubber and solvent-free adhesives, the courts are not only built for performance but also align with Sport Ireland’s ambitious environmental goals.

The water-permeable surface ensures rapid drainage, meaning players can enjoy matches even during Ireland’s famously changeable weather.

The development is the latest in a series of upgrades at the 500-acre Campus, which already boasts state-of-the-art facilities for soccer, rugby, Gaelic games, and hockey.

Located beside the Multisport Pitch Pavilion, the new courts are supported by top-tier amenities including changing rooms, offices, and meeting spaces — creating a seamless experience for both seasoned athletes and casual players.

Minister of State for Sport Charlie McConalogue, who attended the opening, praised the development as part of a broader effort to raise the standard of sporting infrastructure nationwide.

“These new courts are just one example of the facilities we’ve been trying to build up and down the country,” he said.

“Our athletes need access to high quality, accessible spaces to achieve their best. Facilities like this reflect a growing, well-supported sports system in Ireland.”

Sport Ireland has partnered with Tennis Ireland to maximise community use of the courts, with programmes already planned for schools, summer camps, and grassroots initiatives. Special attention will be paid to encouraging participation among women, teenagers, and families.

Tennis Ireland CEO Kevin Quinn described the courts as “a milestone” for the sport.

“Through our partnership with Sport Ireland Campus, we’re not only creating opportunities for play and performance, but embedding tennis at the heart of inclusive, community-based activity,” he said.

“We look forward to seeing players of all ages and abilities enjoying these courts year-round.”

Sport Ireland CEO Dr Úna May echoed that optimism, noting that facilities like these will play a vital role in helping Ireland meet its long-term participation targets.

“We’re all about building growth in active sports participation. Our latest research suggests we’re on track to slightly exceed 50% participation by 2027,” she said.

“Courts like these are key to reaching that goal.”

The courts form part of the Sport Ireland Campus Masterplan, which includes future developments such as a National Velodrome and Badminton Centre and a National Cricket Centre. COO of Sport Ireland Campus, Michael Murray, said the new addition exemplifies their dual focus on elite sport and inclusive community access.

“These new courts reflect our commitment to providing world-class facilities while prioritising sustainability and community engagement,” he said.

“We’re proud to work with Tennis Ireland on what will be a flagship facility.”

The courts are now open to the public, with booking details available at www.sportirelandcampus.ie/tennis