THE FUTURE of the Markets Field as the home of senior soccer in Limerick has been copper-fastened in a new deal which will see Treaty United take control of the iconic stadium.
Limerick Enterprise Development Partnership (LEDP) has announced the signing of a new long-term lease with Treaty United for the use of the Markets Field Stadium.
This arrangement will provide much-needed certainty for the future of senior soccer in Limerick and the Mid West, while protecting the stadium, which remains under LEDP ownership.
The Markets Field is a UEFA accredited stadium in the heart of Garryowen, with a capacity of over 3,000. Under the new lease, Treaty United will retain sole use of the stadium, and take over all operational and future development opportunities, with the continued use of the pitch by its women’s and men’s teams who play League of Ireland football.
The agreement completes a 15-year cycle for LEDP, following its purchase in 2011 and subsequent management of the stadium.
The organisation oversaw a complete redevelopment of the former greyhound stadium, which is considered to be the spiritual home of senior soccer in Limerick, into a modern venue for League of Ireland football.
LEDP CEO Niall O’Callaghan said: “We’re delighted to hand over the day-to-day running of the Markets Field to Treaty United, a club that is working hard to grow the game in Limerick and whose vision and ambition matches that of LEDP for a greater Limerick.”
“This agreement provides Treaty with the stability they need to grow football in our region whilst protecting this iconic Stadium for football fans”.
Mr O’Callaghan acknowledged the support of the JP McManus Charitable Foundation from the outset in 2011.
“I would also like to thank our small but dedicated team who have consistently delivered the best pitch in League of Ireland football, year after year,” he said.
Over the past few years, the LEDP has been seeking a sustainable plan to ensure the stadium remains available for senior soccer into the future. The agreement with Treaty United reflects a shared goal of supporting the long-term development of the sport locally, an LEDP statement said.
Ciara McCormack, CEO of Treaty United, added: “Myself and everyone involved with Treaty United are extremely grateful for the trust and belief that the LEDP is showing our club, by offering this historic opportunity to build a stable home, long term in Limerick at the Markets Field.”
“This has been a meaningful collaboration for the greater good of the city and region, and is a great example of how we can push Limerick and the Mid West forward by working together.
“We recognise and are honoured to be stewards of all the people, history, and magical moments that have come before us, and are the foundation of the Markets Field.
“We look forward to many wonderful days and nights ahead in the heart of Garryowen, as we continue to work hard to build a club that the whole city can get behind and be proud of.”
The Markets Field has a long association with sport in Limerick having previously being home to gaelic games and greyhound racing.
LEDP’s investment and management over the past decade helped bring the stadium back to full use, including hosting League of Ireland and international matches over the past 10 years.
