Stunning new Racecourse Community Centre in Baldoyle opens its doors
Baldoyle’s new €10 million Racecourse Community Centre has officially opened, marking a major milestone in Fingal County Council’s commitment to delivering world-class amenities for a growing community. Years of planning and design have culminated in this state-of-the-art facility, which prioritises sustainability, accessibility, and inclusivity at its core
Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Tom O’Leary, was joined by Chief Executive of Fingal County Council AnnMarie Farrelly, local representatives, members of the project team, the Racecourse Community Centre Committee, sports clubs and the local Baldoyle community. The €10m project was fully funded by Fingal County Council’s Community Development, Parks and Green Infrastructure Departments.
The Racecourse Community Centre has been meticulously designed, with the striking circular building featuring a central sports hall with three courts, complemented by four multi-purpose community rooms. Externally accessible sports rooms will cater to local clubs using the adjacent pitches in Racecourse Park. Ample bike parking encourages sustainable transport, while accessible parking ensures inclusivity for all.
Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary, said: “This centre is a real asset for Baldoyle and the surrounding areas. The €10 million facility has been designed to meet the needs of a growing community while promoting sustainability and accessibility. It will serve as a cornerstone for sport, recreation, and social engagement, a place where people of all ages can come together, that will help build healthy lives and strengthen this wonderful coastal community.”
The centre incorporates a green roof, rain garden, and electric vehicle charging points to promote sustainability, biodiversity, and ecology. Strategically located in Racecourse Park, it represents Fingal County Council’s commitment to providing resources for Baldoyle’s rapidly growing population - including the major upgrade of the local library in May 2025. The design of the new centre was developed by an Integrated Design Team led by Henchion Reuter Architects and including Roughan O’Donovan Engineers, Matt O’Mahoney Associates, Walsh Associates Quantity Surveyors and Dermot Foley Landscape Architects. Construction was carried out by Vision Contracting.
AnnMarie Farrelly, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council said: “This centre exists because of the incredible foresight and hard work of community volunteers and Council officials who championed this project from the outset. Their dedication has helped ensure the centre is a safe, inclusive, and welcoming place for everyone in Baldoyle - a space that will thrive as a well-used hub for generations to come.”
Director of Economic, Community, and Cultural Development at Fingal County Council, John Quinlivan said: “As a Council, we are very proud to mark the completion of this incredible new community centre in Baldoyle. The extensive facilities will accommodate the many new and existing members of the local community and become a hub for sports, activities, events, and community life here in Baldoyle well into the future. I’d like to extend my congratulations to the many people who’ve been involved in this project over the years, and congratulate them all on the achievement”.
The opening of the Racecourse Community Centre stands as a testament to what collaboration between Fingal County Council and the local community can achieve. With its modern design and inclusive features, it will provide opportunities for sport, learning, and social connection while supporting Baldoyle’s continued growth.
The Racecourse Park is also set to received substantial investment over the coming years, with a new playground on the way, as well as football pitches, wildlife areas, car parking and other amenities.