A rare thing in a capital city: a marquee sporting venue that grows with the community rather than giving way to it. We sit down for today’s Podcast at Leopardstown Racecourse with Paul Dermody, CEO of Horse Racing Ireland’s racecourses division, to unpack how Dublin’s only racecourse secured its future while unlocking land for 850–1,000 social and affordable homes. The story begins with a proactive masterplan, gains momentum through the Housing for All strategy, and culminates in a precise 17-acre parcel beside the Luas and M50—meeting housing goals without sacrificing a world-class track.
We explore the legal and planning foundations that enabled it, from Schedule II protections to Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown’s development plans that highlight Leopardstown’s role in community, tourism, and enterprise. Then we move into what the campus can become: safer horse-walk routes, expanded capacity beyond the current 18,500 cap, upgraded owners’ and trainers’ facilities, and a more open, permeable site. Think greenways and cycleways that link Sandyford and local schools; seven-day social spaces that invite people beyond race days; and long-discussed infrastructure finally activated—an existing but unopened Luas platform and a proposed M50 bridge to ease access.
We also talk about timelines and market appetite. Short-term improvements will be visible within 18–24 months. Pre-market consultations will test operators’ interest in hotels, arenas, and conference venues, feeding a sustainable financial model for the campus. Planning for major builds is targeted from 2027, while the LDA aims to break ground around 2030, reflecting the real-world pace of utilities and permissions. Through it all, the vision stays clear: protect the green heart, keep elite racing in the capital, and create a vibrant hub where Dubliners can work, play, and gather.
If you care about the future of sport, city growth, and smart public land use, this conversation is a must.
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