Although fantastic progress has been made on the refurbishment of Morton Stadium by DCU in respect of phase 1 of the redevelopment the weather has unfortunately ruled out the completion of the new track installation this calendar year. DCU released a statement on the current state of play today as follows:
“In June of this year, Dublin City University announced that it has signed a 40 year lease to take
over the running of Morton Stadium, Ireland’s national athletics stadium, in Santry.
Following the National Championships and the Morton Games in early July the track was closed
and work began on Phase I of the redevelopment of the stadium. These works consist of the
resurfacing of the track sub-surface, installation of new drainage and power cabling including to
the east section of the track, laying of a new Mondo track (indoors and outdoors), new track
fencing and the upgrading of the gym facilities and changing rooms.
The new track has been installed on long jump sections and the southern D-section. The indoor
track has also been installed with lining to be completed in the next ten days.
In terms of the main track, prior to commencement of installation of the track the underlying
surface needs to be completely dry, and it will be necessary for this surface to remain dry during
installation. Any moisture on the track during installation creates a risk of the moisture becoming
trapped causing eventual problems with adhesion of the track surface to the glue substrate.
Following assessment of weather conditions in mid-October, the long-term forecast predicted
generally wet weather with no significant periods of dry weather. Based on this, a decision was
made informed by the track specialist, Mondo Sport, not to continue with laying of the track
surface.
Mondo Sport would not be in a position to certify the track installation to World Athletics Class II
level and provide the necessary warranties if installed in wet conditions or where moisture was
present during the installation process.
The indoor track, high performance gym and changing rooms will re-open in early January.
The university appreciates the support and understanding of the entire athletics community
through this period of essential works to ensure we have a fit for purpose national athletics
facility.
Work to finish the new track is due to resume in Spring 2023. Further updates will be provided to
stakeholders and the athletics community when available.”
Although undoubtedly our club members will be disappointed, and it is acknowledged by all concerned that the absence of the stadium is very problematic for our club, DCU must be guided by the expert advice they have from Mondo once the track is completed in the spring it will be a tremendous facility for Clonliffe Harriers and our sport. In the meantime the club continues to provide alternative training venues:
Tuesdays: Trinity sports grounds (7 PM to 8:30 PM), ALSAA track (7 PM to 8 PM)
Thursdays: Trinity sports grounds (7 PM to 8:30 PM), ALSAA track (8 PM to 9 PM), for the younger juvenile athletes St Aidan’s (7 PM to 8 PM)
Sundays: ALSAA (10 AM to 11 AM)