Old Belvedere Rugby Football Club will host the first Access Courts squash court in Ireland and Europe. Construction is underway at the Dublin 4 venue and the new court is set to open shortly.
Access Courts said on LinkedIn: “We’re proud to share that an Access Courts indoor squash court is currently under construction in Dublin. It is being built at Old Belvedere RFC, one of Dublin’s most prestigious sports clubs, set in leafy Ballsbridge, a stone’s throw from the city centre.
“As part of a major upgrade to its sporting facilities, Old Belvedere RFC is opening a brand-new, state-of-the-art racket club featuring three padel courts and one squash court.
“The club counts financier Dermot Desmond, the largest individual shareholder in Celtic FC and a long-time benefactor of Old Belvedere, among its backers, and the new facility is set to open its doors in just a few weeks.
“What we love most: even as padel continues its remarkable rise, squash keeps its place on court. A glass-back squash court takes up just one-third of the footprint of a padel court, making it the perfect complement to any modern racket club. Wishing the entire team at Old Belvedere a fantastic launch.”
Scott Graham, the Squash Ireland CEO, added: “This court is a European first… I’m really delighted to see the innovative new all-glass Access Court installed at Old Belvedere RFC. The squash court sits alongside a number of padel courts and looks absolutely fantastic.
“Access Squash Courts are modular, cost- and space-efficient, with three squash courts sitting on the same footprint as one padel court. Commercial operators and member clubs are discovering the new economics of squash.
“We have loads of interest in these courts. Where will we see the first outdoor Access Squash Court in Europe? I’m hoping it’s Ireland so we can continue to lead the way in innovation and ambition and bring the great game of squash to new audiences.
“Give me a shout if you’re interested in an Access Court for your multi-racket facility or traditional squash club. Access Courts are eligible under the soon-to-be-launched Community Sports Facility Fund.”