First step towards new large astro turf pitch and clubhouse
YOUNG PEOPLE across the locality could be set to benefit from the construction of a state of the art Astro turf pitch and clubhouse, if the project approved by the local authority.
A planning application is being lodged for the new facility to be built by Trinity Homes when the construction industry is back up and running. It is envisaged that the all-weather pitch and clubhouse will be built on the Carnew road in Gorey and will be managed by Gorey Youth Needs and Gorey Rangers Youths.
Senator Malcolm Byrne has welcomed the project, describing it as hugely beneficial.
‘This is a project that I’ve helped facilitate and it will be open to the entire community, but with a specific focus on young people. Trinity Homes is also planning to further develop the neighbouring site where it is building so that there will be a total of 83 high end homes located in the development. Alongside the astro turf pitch, there will be a drop-off area for cars that will also benefit local schools during the day. There will still be fundraising required to complete the works but Trinity Homes are making the site available for free.
‘Due to the Covid-19 crisis, there are currently delays on the processing of planning applications, but it is hoped that, once restrictions are lifted, Wexford County Council will be in a position to consider the application’.
Mandi Tighe of Gorey Youth Needs described the gesture by Trinity Homes as generous.
‘While there is work to be done on the project yet, this new facility will really benefit young people in North Wexford and beyond,’ she said.
James Levinstone of Gorey Rangers said that having use of this size of facility will allow the youths to grow and nurture their talents.
Stephen Mahon, Managing Director of Trinity Homes said that his team wanted to do something for the community.
‘Gorey is a rapidly growing area, so it is vital that there are quality sports and recreational facilities. This site is an ideal location given that it is within minutes’ walk of local schools, and if planning permission is secured, we will be working with Gorey Youth Needs and Gorey Rangers to make this dream a reality’.
The plans are for an astro turf pitch that will be over 90 metres long and close to 60 metres wide, with the flexibility to be divided into three smaller pitches for five-a-side use.
It will be fully lit and netted with clubhouse facilities for home and away changing facilities, a clubhouse, canteen and cafe with outdoor seating area. The clubhouse itself will have a modern design and will be eco friendly.
Councillor Fionntán Ó Suilleabhain, who is using his municipal discretionary funding to facilitate a footpath at the Gorey Rangers pitch at Ramstown, also welcomed the move.
‘If given the go-ahead it could be great news for children in the Gorey area once issues around future management, community use and ownership are ironed out. It will be crucial that school pupils in the adjacent schools have full access. It won’t be long until we’ll have up to 2,000 pupils entering the Creagh and Carnew Road area each morning so it will also be good if the proposed drop-off point can help ease the traffic gridlock.
‘Works are progressing well in terms of expanding facilities at Gorey Rangers and the footpath at Ramstown was very warmly received. It was well-used for a big match just before the lock down’.