559. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the up-to-date position regarding the redevelopment of the National Concert Hall; and when the project will progress to the next phase of works. [45746/26]

The redevelopment of the National Concert Hall is a major project in the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport’s capital investment programme under the National Development Plan. Being delivered in partnership with the Office of Public Works, it is a once in a multi-generation investment to revitalise a landmark, heritage site and transform it into a world-class cultural campus.

The project is progressing in two distinct stages:

• NCH Discover, is the first phase of the planned redevelopment that will transform the former Pathology building into a new Learning and Participation hub. This new hub will provide expanded opportunities for music engagement, learning and participation, creativity and wellbeing for people of all ages and backgrounds. In January, construction commenced on site and it is anticipated that the new centre will open in mid 2027.

• The second phase of the project, redevelopment of the main NCH building, is currently in the Pre-tender - Project Design, Planning and Procurement Strategy phase of the Infrastructure Guidelines project lifecycle. At this stage of the project, it is not possible to provide a definitive project programme, as the timeline remains dependent upon securing necessary approvals, statutory compliance processes, completing detailed design work, and the conclusion of the procurement process.