A second Cork sports club has voiced strong opposition to the proposed €2.5 billion Luas Cork project, with Highfield Rugby Club warning that the revised route would have a devastating impact on its future.
The preferred route for the planned 20km light rail network was unveiled in April, refining the emerging preferred route that was published last year. The updated plans include significant alterations on the western section of the line, particularly in the Ballincollig and Bishopstown areas. A public consultation process on the revised route remains open until next week.
Under the original proposals, the Luas line was set to travel along Melbourn Road before continuing onto Curraheen Road and joining Bishopstown Road near Cork University Hospital (CUH). However, the latest route would see the tram line turn east at the northern end of Melbourn Road, passing Bishopstown Community School and cutting through lands belonging to both Bishopstown GAA Club and Highfield Rugby Club.
Bishopstown GAA has already expressed its opposition to the revised plans, pledging last month to resist the proposed route “to the end”. Highfield Rugby Club has now joined the campaign, describing the plans as an “existential threat” and encouraging its members to participate in the public consultation process.
In a statement published on its website, Highfield said the proposed route would not merely affect the edges of its property but would run directly through the centre of the club. The club noted that it has been an important part of the Bishopstown community for nearly a century and warned that the development could seriously undermine its ability to provide rugby facilities and programmes for future generations.
According to Highfield, the route would significantly impact its second and third pitches, effectively rendering them unusable. The club said access to these playing areas would require crossing a busy twin-track Luas line, creating both practical and safety concerns.
Particular concern was raised about the effect on underage rugby. Highfield stated that large numbers of children and young players would need to cross the tram tracks regularly, posing potential health and safety risks. The club warned that this could ultimately jeopardise its ability to continue offering youth rugby programmes.
The proposed route would also remove a substantial section of the club’s lower car park. Highfield argued that this would affect site security and eliminate an important source of income currently generated through a leasing arrangement with Cork University Hospital.
While stressing its support for improved public transport infrastructure, the club said such progress should not come at the expense of a long-established community sports organisation.
Earlier this week, Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien described the Luas Cork project as a vital investment for the city. He suggested that sports clubs impacted by the development could be compensated through the provision of replacement facilities and additional grounds.
Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) said it is continuing to engage with affected stakeholders, including schools, residents, businesses, Bishopstown GAA and Highfield Rugby Club. A spokesperson said the consultation process is intended to gather feedback that will help inform further studies and allow the route design to be refined before the project progresses.
