Rovers issue update on Showgrounds masterplan

SLIGO Rovers have updated fans on the latest regarding their masterplan to revamp The Showgrounds.

Phase One has already been carried out with a €200,000 grant being put to good use with new floodlights being installed.

Back in 2021, as part of the preparations for the Sligo Rovers 100th anniversary of their founding in 2028, the club carried out a widespread consultation process.

The resultant masterplan set out how the club and The Showgrounds will serve future generations of supporters with statutory planning approval being granted by Sligo County Council in February 2023.

With the floodlights in place, the club is about to embark on phase two of the masterplan.

An integrated design team has been put together to look at a new stand behind one of the goals, renovating the opposite end by demolishing it and replacing it with a new stand with the existing touchline stands being revamped.

Rovers lodged an application for funding under the IIP (Immigrant Investor Programme) scheme last year. It is due to be evaluated during 2024.

The Department of Sport has indicated it will shortly invite applications for a new round of the Large Scale

Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF). Rovers will lodge an application for support.

It is expected that allocations from this fund will be made during the lifetime of this government – despite a general election being on the horizon.

Earlier work carried out, including receiving planning permission and the appointment of a Design Team, leave Sligo Rovers in contention to benefit from substantial LSSIF funding.

A statement from the club read: “We are conscious of the club’s rich history.

“We hope that the required level of state funding will be provided to allow Sligo Rovers serve the needs of future generations and continue its role as a valued ambassador for the League of Ireland in the regions.”