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.
