Galway City Council has announced that the newly upgraded Doughiska Skatepark has been shortlisted for an Irish Construction Excellence (ICE ) Award in the Leisure or Tourism category. The nomination recognises the transformation of a well?used but aging facility into a modern, inclusive and technically advanced skatepark that now ranks among the best of its kind in Ireland.
Founded in 1993 the Irish Construction Excellence Awards (ICE Awards ) are the original and premier recognition of performance excellence for construction in Ireland. Established by Irish building magazine, the leading construction media brand for Ireland, the Awards provide an opportunity for the industry to highlight best performance across the full range of construction disciplines and project categories.
Public voting is now open for the ICE Awards 2026 ‘Project of the Year’. If you wish to support the Doughiska Skatepark Upgrade, votes can be cast at https://IceAwards.ie/Vote/. The closing date for voting is April 3.
The ‘Project of the Year’ category is an award decided by public vote that celebrates standout construction projects across Ireland, recognising those that demonstrate exceptional design, quality, innovation and community impact.
The ICE Awards 2026 will be presented on 28 May 2026 at the Convention Centre Dublin and hosted by Kevin McGahern.
Speaking about the nomination, Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard, said the project represents a milestone for the Doughiska community.
“This upgrade shows what can be achieved when young people, local groups and the Council work together with a shared vision. The skatepark has gone from a much?loved but declining facility to a vibrant destination where children, teenagers and families gather every day. Its design reflects what the community asked for - a safe, modern space that supports active lifestyles.This national recognition is richly deserved.”
The project was delivered by Galway City Council in partnership with Browne Brothers Ltd. and internationally renowned designers Vulcano Skateparks S.L. Following strong advocacy from the Galway Skate Association, the Council secured funding under the Sports Capital Equipment Programme and incorporated user feedback directly into the design brief. The final layout includes three distinct zones for beginner, intermediate and advanced users, each shaped through precision concrete work and specialist construction techniques.
The skatepark reopened in November 2025 to an enthusiastic response, quickly drawing skateboarders, BMX riders, roller skaters and scooter users from across Galway and further afield.
Reflecting on the project’s impact, Chief Executive of Galway City Council, Leonard Cleary, said the nomination highlights the value of investing in high?quality public amenities, especially in communities where they have a real and immediate impact.
"The Doughiska Skatepark upgrade is the result of close collaboration between our staff, specialist contractors and the skate community. It has delivered a durable, safe and beautifully crafted space that will serve young people for decades. We are delighted to see the work recognised at a national level.”
