The Adare community has welcomed the announcement of funding for the village ahead of next year’s Ryder Cup, which will help secure a lasting legacy beyond the event itself.
The Ryder Cup will be one of the largest sporting events ever held in Ireland and is expected to attract well over 200,000 visitors over the six days, with daily attendance of 55,000–65,000 spectators during the competition days.
Minister Patrick O’Donovan has announced funding of up to €5.7m for legacy projects, including the refurbishment of Adare Village Hall and Heritage Centre and the enhancement of public areas.
“Adare is a beautiful location for the next Ryder Cup and I want to showcase Adare village at its very best for both residents and visitors alike, not just during the event but for many years to come,” he said.
The projects will be delivered in collaboration with Limerick City and County Council.
The village, which has long been a bottleneck for traffic, will also benefit from a bypass which is due for completion before the Ryder Cup in September 2027.
Construction of the Adare Bypass, which is part of the Foynes to Limerick Road Scheme, is well under way, with three bridges linked to the adjacent rail project recently completed.
Minister O’Donovan also announced a sustainability initiative; a planting scheme of native Irish trees within Adare and across Co Limerick, which he said over their lifetime will offset the carbon footprint generated by the hosting of the event.
“I am conscious that large scale events can have some short-term impacts for those living in the area and that is why legacy projects such as these are a key part of the Government’s policy in relation to the hosting of major international sports events.”
Minister of State, Charlie McConalogue said: “Ensuring a lasting legacy from major sporting events is a key priority for the Government, and I am pleased that funding is being provided to ensure that the people of Adare and the wider region will benefit from next year’s Ryder Cup, not just in 2027 but for many years to come.”