Dublin West: Sports Update

National Acquatic Centre

• The Centre was officially opened on Monday, 10 March, 2003. It successfully hosted the swimming events of the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games, the first time this event was held outside of the United States. It also hosted the European Short Course Swimming Championships in December 2003.In 2009 over 723,000 people used the facilities of the Centre; 31 National Swimming records were broken; and 4 major Leisure Industry Awards were achieved.
• The National Aquatic Centre is one of the world’s largest indoor water centres. It comprises:-
• A 10-lane 50 metre x 25 metre international standard swimming pool with two moveable floors which will allow it to be reconfigured for other uses;
• A 25 metre international standard diving pool/warm up pool;
• Seating for 2,500 spectators;
• Extensive leisure waters (AquaZone) including adventure water rides, with children’s play pool and wave pool;
• A fitness centre (ToneZone);
• Café and Reception Area.
• The capital cost of the National Aquatic Centre was €62.5 million and the project was delivered on time and within budget.

Sports Grants Since 1998

Two New Swimming Pools

• Ballyfermot Dublin City (Replace) - opened 6 October 2008
• St Michael’s House, Dublin (New) -opened 21 April 08