National Aquatic Centre
The National Aquatic Centre was developed by the Irish Government to be a national centre for all aquatic sports in Ireland. Built at a cost of €62.5 million, it was delivered both on time and within budget.
The Centre was officially launched in March 2003. It successfully hosted the swimming events of the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games, the first time this event was held outside of the United States. It also hosted the European Short Course Swimming Championships in December 2003.
The National Aquatic Centre is one of the world’s largest indoor water centres. It comprises:-
- A 10-lane 50 metre x 25 metre international standard swimming pool with two moveable floors which will allow it to be reconfigured for other uses;
- A 25 metre international standard diving pool/warm- up pool;
- Extensive leisure waters including adventure water rides, with children’s play pool and wave pool;
- Seating for 2,500 spectators;
- A Fitness Centre;
- Café and Reception Area.
The National Aquatic Centre, which was originally operated under lease by a private operator, reverted back into State ownership in December 2006. Since reverting then it has gone from strength to strength. In 2008 over 700,000 people used the facilities at the Centre.
The National Aquatic Centre is now under the remit of the National Sports Campus Development Authority and is operated by NSCDA (Operations) Ltd which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Authority. The Chairperson is Mary Davis, and the other Directors are Pat Hickey, John Treacy and Christy O’Connell. The General Manager is Teifion Williams.
Full details of all the facilities at the National Aquatic Centre
National Aquatic Centre Mission Statement
- The National Aquatic Centre is the premier venue for competitive Swimming, Diving, and Water Polo in Ireland;
- It is the national base for the training of High Performance swimmers who are preparing for international competition;
- It hosts National and Provincial Championships in all the major aquatic disciplines, and is the venue for International Competitions at both Junior and Senior levels;
- Through its links with Swim Ireland – the National Governing Body of Swimming – and its member clubs, the Centre promotes and develops active participation at all levels.
- The Centre also promotes public health and accommodates public access through its Leisure Pool (AquaZone) and it’s Fitness Gym (ToneZone).
