The first sod in the redevelopment of Waterford’s Walsh Park was turned today by Minister of State for Sports Jack Chambers, with GAA President Larry McCarthy, Waterford GAA Chairperson Seán Michael O’Regan, and his fellow Waterford GAA officers also in attendance.

"It’s exciting times, it’s a long time coming and been discussed for a long time, O’Regan told WLRFM today.

“The fact it’s here now, I’m delighted and looking forward to getting it started.”

Walsh Park is named after Waterford gael, Willie Walsh, who refereed many All-Ireland football and hurling finals including the 1916 All-Ireland Hurling Final.

Phase One of the redeveopment will consist of a new, uncovered, seated stand in the northern terrace and the refurbishment of the existing southern stand. Once Phase 1 is completed, and it’s due to be next year, Phases 2 and 3 will commence.

"The overall costing - and obviously, it could change by the time we get to the end goal - is coming in at around €12 million," said O’Regan.

"It's going to be in three phases and phase one will begin as soon as we can."

"While Phase 1 is starting, we will get straight into Phase 2's design stage - finishing off the design.

"The high level work for Phase 2 is Keane's Road. Construction there is set to start in 2024 and we're going to have a covered 1,300-seated stand, along with the facilities that are required, as in dressing rooms and an administration building as well.

"And then Phase 3 will be the last phase, which is down at the city end terrace - just tidying up that, turning it into a bank with a new entrance down there.

"That could be 2025."