574. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport for an update on the development of the new national velodrome and badminton centre. [36839/26]

On 3 September 2025, the Government approved funding of €99.6 million and the appointment of Walls Construction as principal contractor for the National Velodrome and Badminton Centre (NVBC). I am pleased to inform the Deputy that construction commenced on the project in February of this year and it is anticipated that the NVBC will be completed and in operational use by Q2 2028.

Thw Project will deliver a 250-metre cycling track, the standard required length for hosting major international events. It will also deliver up to 12 badminton courts in the in-track area, seating for 1,000 spectators and ancillary facilities.

When operational, the NVBC will address the need to provide world-class track cycling facilities for our athletes as well as providing the sport of badminton with integrated training, gym and medical facilities. This state of the art facility will afford our track cycling athletes the opportunity to train in Ireland and should have a positive effect on future international performance levels in both sports.