Kildare Minister turns the sod on Maynooth University’s new Sport Science Centre

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD has turned the sod on Maynooth University’s €19 million Sport Science Centre in Kildare.

The state-of-the-art facility, designed to promote health and wellbeing on campus as well as teaching and research, is scheduled to open in January 2027, with construction now underway on a three-storey extension to the Phoenix Sports and Restaurant Building.

Planning permission was received from Kildare County Council in late 2024 for the new centre which will include a state-of-the-art student gym, a teaching sports / multi-purpose hall and sports science research and teaching laboratories.

In the plans, drawn up by a team led by Reddy Architecture and Urbanism, the gym is prominently located on the ground floor of the new building, making sports activities visible and promoting student health and wellbeing.

The new building will also house office space for the Department of Sport Science and Nutrition, which was established in 2023.

In addition, the new building is designed with sustainability at its core. Heated by energy-efficient heat pumps and incorporating mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, the building is expected to achieve a BER rating of A2.

READ NEXT: Kildare man to run 100km ultramarathon in memory of loved ones lost to cancer

Welcoming the planned new centre Minister James Lawless TD said: “I am delighted to turn the sod on this new facility that will support the health and well-being of students. The impressive design plan provides not only advanced sports facilities, but an environment for teaching and research in the important field of sports science, food science and nutrition.”

President of Maynooth University, Professor Eeva Leinonen, said: “The development of the Sport Science Centre marks a significant milestone in Maynooth University’s strategic ambition to deepen our contribution to sport science and health education.

“It reflects our vision of a university that responds to societal needs and is committed to advancing health and well-being through education, research, and innovation. By investing in state-of-the-art facilities, we enable our students and staff to lead healthier lives and build knowledge and skills that have a positive impact far beyond our campus.”

MU students also welcomed the project, noting the benefits it will deliver for sports, study, and campus life.

Eoghan Frayne, captain of the Meath GAA Senior Football team and a student at Maynooth University, said: “I think the new Sports Science Building is a great addition to the University. It makes a big difference for all of us to have access to state-of-the-art facilities, and for those competing at a high level. It’s important to have a space where we can study, train, and recover all in the one place.”

Becky Watkins, another MU student who plays soccer for Peamount United’s senior women’s team, added: “The new Sports Science building is a huge step forward, not just for athletes like me, but for every student. With outstanding gym and performance facilities, it supports smarter training, enhances recovery and personal growth. It's a place to reach our peak - as elite athletes but together as a university. It's more than a building; it's a commitment to excellence!”