Plans unveiled for dedicated winter sports arena in Dublin

A planning application to build a dedicated winter sports and entertainment arena in Dublin is expected to be lodged later this year.

It is hoped the 5,000 seater facility in Cherrywood would act as a national hub for elite athletes and a concert venue, while also becoming the home of Dublin’s first professional ice hockey franchise.

The company behind the project claim the arena could generate socio-economic impact of over €230 million annually.

Dermot Rigley, chief executive of Prime Arena Holdings, called it a "defining moment" for Ireland.

"Since 2021, we’ve been working quietly but relentlessly with an incredible team to bring this vision to life – and today, we’re proud to finally share it with the Irish public. With the support of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and Hines, we’re building more than an arena – we’re creating a national landmark that will open up winter sports to every corner of Irish society, empower our athletes, and give Ireland the platform it deserves to host world-class events."

Tom Kennedy, chairman of Prime Arena Holdings, said: "This isn’t just an investment in infrastructure – it’s a legacy for generations. We are deeply grateful to our incredible investor group and project team, whose belief and commitment have made this moment possible."

Jim O’Leary, cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, said: "I am delighted to welcome this announcement for Ireland's first dedicated winter sports and entertainment arena earmarked for development in our new town of Cherrywood.

"This transformational arena will contribute significantly to our corporate goals in realising our sports, tourism and cultural ambitions and in supporting further economic growth and opportunities in our County for all who live, work and visit Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown and the wider region."