Funding Secured For New 3G Pitch and Floodlights In Portrush

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has announced the next stage of the Northern Ireland Football Fund Grassroots Facilities Programme.

Speaking at an event in the Blanchflower Stadium, the Minister said: “It is a real pleasure to announce the successful projects from the pilot stage of the Northern Ireland Football Fund Grassroots Facilities Programme.”

A total of 42 applications were received with seven applications going through to the next stage of the Programme: five club/facility-led projects, and two council-led projects.

The Minister continued: “These projects now have the potential to move forward and start turning ambition into reality. The facilities that come through this programme will create more opportunities to play, improve the quality of the football experience and provide infrastructure that can meet growing demand for years to come.”

The Department will now engage with the successful applicants to undertake due diligence checks. These checks will provide assurance on the legal and financial feasibility of the projects. Subject to the successful completion of these checks, it is anticipated that the first projects could progress to funding agreements later this calendar year.

The Minister added: “I have seen first-hand, on visits to clubs large and small right across Northern Ireland, the difference that good facilities make. Local football brings people together, supports health and wellbeing, and strengthens our communities. That is why this investment matters. Let’s keep delivering.”

Alderman Mark Fielding said: “I am delighted that funding has been secured through the Department for Communities’ Northern Ireland Grassroots Football Fund for a synthetic 3G pitch and floodlights at Parker Avenue in Portrush.

“Today’s announcement represents a significant step towards delivering long-awaited improvements to the grounds used by Portrush Football Club. I have lobbied for a 3G pitch and other improvements at Parker Avenue since I was elected nearly 16 years ago.

“This is a welcome investment in our community. For many years, Portrush FC’s youth programme has supported more than 200 young people annually. However, extensive use and deterioration of the grass surfaces have too often resulted in training being cancelled.

“The current grounds are not fit for purpose. Installing a 3G pitch and floodlights will help address these problems and provide improved facilities for players and coaches.

“Credit must go to the coaches, some of whom have dedicated many years to the club, and to council staff for their work in submitting a successful funding application.

“As I have said before, Portrush has benefited from improvements to its infrastructure and public spaces, but we also need investment that supports those who live, work and play sport here throughout the year.

“I look forward to work beginning on this project, which will strengthen grassroots football facilities and support wider community participation in sport.”

East Londonderry MLA Maurice Bradley, a member of the Communities Committee, echoed his congratulations to Causeway Coast and Glens Funding Unit, and to everyone involved at Portrush Football Club, on the opportunity to develop and progress, particularly their youth facilities and ability to grow and prosper.