Irish rugby icon Paul O'Connell will head an advisory board after JP McManus announced he will invest €10m into a new high-tech interactive rugby centre in Limerick City.
The new digital attraction will consist of a 30,000 square feet exhibition space and is due to open in September 2019.
Commenting on the project, former Irish captain O’Connell said: “Limerick has a strong and historic rugby tradition which is internationally recognised.
"The objective of the visitor centre is to operate as a fitting tribute to the sport of rugby across the world and in so doing, recognise every country in which it is played through the highest quality interactive digital experience.
"I’m very proud to be part of this ground breaking project and look forward to working with the team on its development," he added.
Paul O'Connell lifts the RBS Six Nations trophy as John Hayes and Stephen Ferris look on
Image: ©INPHO/Billy Stickland
Also speaking at the announcement, Mayor of the City and County of Limerick Cllr Kieran O’Hanlon said: “Limerick is the capital of rugby and this new €10 million euro digital interactive visitor centre will cement Limerick’s position as a mecca for all rugby fans.”
“From Munster returning to the glory days on the pitch to this new exciting venture in the heart of Limerick city, it will bolster Limerick’s attractiveness as a sports tourism destination.”
“Limerick City and County Council has an exciting urban renewal programme underway, with the Limerick Twenty Thirty developments and the O’Connell Street Revitalisation Scheme.”
“I’m sure the vision and confidence JP McManus has shown with this investment, coupled with the sport, business and tourism expertise on the advisory board of the new visitor centre, will encourage additional private investment in Limerick city centre.”
It has been a good weekend for rugby in the city after Munster humbled Leicester 38-0 in the European Champions Cup on Saturday.
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