RUISLIP Grounds Development Chairman Noel Dunning admits ‘it is a hugely significant time for the GAA in London’ as the Emerald GAA Grounds renovation is scheduled to be completed by May 2016.
Work is expected to commence on a new stand and terracing in early June following London’s Connacht Senior Football Championship clash with Roscommon on May 24. A Ground Breaking Ceremony, which will be attended by GAA President Aogan O’Fearghail, takes place in Ruislip on April 16 at 7.30
This will be a ‘key event’ according to Dunning. “Fundraising wise things are going to according to plan,” Dunning says. “We are on track and the Ground Breaking in April will be a key event for us.
“It will really show that things have started in earnest and that we are getting closer to where we want to be. It has been a lengthy process, but we are delighted to get where we are now. It is a hugely significant time for the GAA in London.”
Dunning is adamant that clubs in London will benefit hugely when the upgraded facilities are ready for a May 29, 2016 Connacht Senior Football Championship date with Mayo. “We are taking no personal satisfaction out it, we are just encouraged that the GAA clubs and volunteers in London will have a ground to be proud of. That is hugely important for everybody associated with the project.
“It is happening. There is no doubt that it was difficult at times, but it was vital that we stayed patient when things had to be ironed out. Thankfully we did and this is for the betterment of London GAA. It is a very important time for the association here.
“This facility will be for everyone and that shouldn’t be forgotten. We’ve taken advice and we are well aware of the time scale involved. However everything should be ready for when we host our Connacht Championship game in 2016. That is the target we’ve set and we will be doing everything we can to ensure it is met.”
