OVERVIEW

Cunnane Stratton Reynolds (CSR), landscape design and planning consultants, were appointed to design and oversee the construction of a world-class Cross Country Course within the historic grounds of Abbotstown House on the Sport Ireland Campus in Blanchardstown. The project aimed to create a unique, state of the art, international calibre fixed cross country course within the campus. It is one of the few permanent cross country courses anywhere in the world and has been met with universal acclaim from athletics governing bodies at national and internal level, from athletes themselves, coaches and spectators. The course has hosted IAAF events including the European Cross Country Championships, senior and juvenile national leagues and championships. The course is also available to the public to walk or run and is considered a very enjoyable and interesting walk by the public. The final design by CSR harmoniously integrates the course with the site’s natural topography, woodland and heritage features, offering an exceptional experience for athletes and spectators.

SERVICE PROVIDED

CSR led the full design and implementation process, from feasibility and concept development to on-site delivery and supervision. The team analysed international best practice and IAAF standards, engaged closely with Athletics Ireland and carried out detailed studies of the site’s terrain, drainage and visual character. The resulting course maximises the natural contours and landscape diversity of Abbotstown, incorporating sweeping curves, undulating grassland, woodland sections and heritage views. Officially opened in 2016, the facility now provides a premier venue for both elite competition and community participation in cross country running.

Sport Ireland Campus Director, David Conway, said: “The lands to the front of Abbotstown House at the National Sports Campus lent themselves perfectly for the provision of a competitive national Cross Country track, the variety of landscape, topography and heritage features are beautifully harnessed to create a challenging and exciting course for both competitive and participation runners.”