A major milestone has been reached at the RDS with the topping out of the new Anglesea Stand, marking the completion of the structural frame of the Laya Arena.
Delivered by Elliott Group as a design and build project, the redevelopment will provide a 20,000+ capacity venue designed to enhance the matchday and event experience, while maintaining the unique atmosphere long associated with the RDS. The project will support a wide range of uses, from international sport to live entertainment, and is expected to play a significant role in attracting visitors and major events to Dublin.
The milestone was marked on site with a ceremonial beam signing attended by representatives from the RDS, laya healthcare, Leinster Rugby and Minister Charlie McConalogue.
Reaching this stage reflects the coordinated effort of a large project team working across design, engineering and construction. The scheme is being delivered in collaboration with Interactive Project Managers, Grimshaw, RKD, Mitchell McDermott, JV Tierney, PUNCH Consulting Engineers, RPS, EOBA, ORS, Doyle + O’Troitheigh, Altura, Passive Dynamics, Greene Facade Consulting and AD Design, alongside the wider supply chain.
The project has also surpassed 250,000 safe working hours without incident, maintaining a consistent focus on safety across all activities on site.
With the structural phase now complete, works will progress into fit-out and seating installation, with the Laya Arena on programme to open in 2026.

Kevin Kent, Director of Business Development at Laya Healthcare, Gary O’Sullivan, Managing Director Elliott Groupv, Hilary Hough, Vice President RDS, Charlie McConalogue , Minister of State for Sport, Darragh Elliott, CEO Elliott Group and Shane Nolan, CEO Leinster Rugby