UK Government Pledges £50m for Belfast Casement Park Redevelopment

The UK government has pledged £50 million towards the redevelopment of Casement Park in west Belfast, a significant contribution welcomed by the GAA as a crucial milestone in the project. The stadium, derelict since 2013, requires approximately £260-270 million for rebuilding, with £120 million already pledged by the Stormont Executive, the Irish government, and the GAA, leaving a funding shortfall of around £90-150 million. GAA president Jarlath Burns expressed gratitude to UK officials including Secretary of State Hilary Benn and Chancellor Rachel Reeves for their support but emphasized that further fundraising is necessary to complete the project. The redevelopment is part of the NI Executive's 14-year Regional Stadia Programme and is intended to leave a lasting legacy for the Gaels of Antrim and Ulster, with hopes of the stadium hosting Euro 2028 Championship games. The GAA plans to increase its financial commitment and will engage with the Northern Ireland Executive and Department for Communities to secure full funding. The announcement has generated growing momentum and optimism for finally delivering the long-delayed stadium, which has faced setbacks due to legal challenges and funding gaps.