January 7, 2025 – In a devastating turn of events, the roof of the Tralee Sports Complex in County Kerry, Ireland, collapsed under the weight of heavy snow on January 6, 2025. The incident has been described as a “huge setback” for the entire county, impacting the local sports community and beyond.

Background of Tralee Sports Complex

The Tralee Sports Complex, officially known as the Tralee Regional Sports and Leisure Centre, is a multi-purpose sports facility that has been serving the community since 1977. It is a unique cooperative venture owned by Kerry Education & Training Board and Kerry County Council, managed on a not-for-profit basis. The complex attracts over 300,000 visits each year and features a range of facilities including a 25m swimming pool, 12.5m learner’s pool, 830 sq metre sports hall, fully equipped gym, squash courts, handball/raquetball courts, and outdoor pitches(2)(4).

The Collapse and Immediate Response

The roof over the sports hall caved in early on January 6, 2025, after heavy snowfall in the region. Emergency services were alerted at 7am, and the building was secured while the grounds were closed to the public. Fortunately, the building was empty at the time of the collapse, and no injuries were reported(3)(4).

Assessment and Future Plans

A full assessment of the damage is underway to determine the next steps. The exact cause of the collapse has not yet been determined, but it is believed that the weight of the snow on the metal roof triggered the incident. Chair of the management board, Jim Finucane, stated that the building was extensively damaged but noted that the two pools in the complex appear to have escaped the damage. There is hope that the swimming pool area may be able to reopen(3)(4).

Impact on the Community

The collapse of the Tralee Sports Complex roof has significant implications for the local sports community. Councillor Terry O’Brien, a member of the board at the Tralee Regional Sports and Leisure Centre and chair of Warriors Basketball Club, described the incident as a “huge blow” to people all over Kerry. The sports hall is home to Garvey’s Tralee Warriors basketball team, which will now need to find an alternative venue for their remaining home games(3).

Conclusion

The collapse of the Tralee Sports Complex roof is a significant setback for the Kerry community, affecting not only the local sports teams but also the general public who rely on the facility for recreation and fitness. As the assessment continues and plans for repair or rebuilding are made, the community remains hopeful for a swift resolution. In the meantime, users of the complex are advised to check for updates on the facility’s status and alternative arrangements for sports activities.

Call to Action

We invite our readers to share their thoughts on the impact of the Tralee Sports Complex roof collapse and suggestions for how the community can come together to support the rebuilding efforts. Please leave your comments below or reach out to us with your stories.

Sources:

  • (2) Kerry ETB: Tralee Regional Sports & Leisure Centre
  • (3) Radio Kerry: Collapse of Tralee Sports Complex roof described as a huge set-back for whole county
  • (4) RTE News: Roof collapses under heavy snow at Kerry sports complex

Related Content:

  • For more information on the Tralee Sports Complex and its facilities, visit (1) Tralee Sports Complex.
  • To stay updated on the latest news from Kerry, follow (3) Radio Kerry.