Burgh unveil plans for stadium upgrade
The Johnstone Burgh revolution continued apace yesterday with the football club submitting plans for a major redevelopment of its home ground on the town’s Auchenlodment Road.
The grass turf at Keanie Park would be replaced with an artificial pitch under the proposals. It is hoped this would reduce the number of match postponements.
And fans of the West of Scotland League First Division club will stand to benefit with plans for an all-seater stand to replace the current cow shed enclosure.
To reflect the club’s ambitions to make it to the higher echelons of the Scottish football pyramid, the club wishes to enlarge the clubhouse with potential additions including a modern gym aimed at enhancing training and fitness opportunities for both the team and local residents.
The club announced their plans on yesterday morning with a number of images published on their website of what the development might look like. The plans will now go before planning officials at Renfrewshire Council.
An artificial pitch was one of the promises made by the new owners of the club, who took over last summer, following the arrivals of marquee signings Kyle Lafferty and Graham Dorrans – both formerly of Rangers and full internationals.
Burgh have said that, in addition to the main pitch, they’d like to build a sevena-side pitch at Keanie Park which would be available for use by the community.
And accessibility at the ground would be improved with plans for an accessible path to be built round the perimeter of the pitch, as well as a resurfaced car parking area.
A statement on the club’s website reads: “Johnstone Burgh is thrilled to announce the launch of a significant redevelopment project for Keanie Park, our beloved stadium. This initiative is set to transform our facilities into a stateof-the-art sports complex that caters to both our players and the community.”
They’re asking supporters for their views on the plans.
The club say those wishing to express their thoughts on the redevelopment of Keanie Park can do so by sending suggestions to info@johnstoneburghfc. com or by posting ideas on the club’s official Facebook and Twitter pages using the hashtag #NewKeaniePark or in-person to the suggestion box.
A club spokesperson added: “As we embark on this exciting journey, the involvement and feedback of our supporters are invaluable.
“We are eager to hear your thoughts on these proposed changes and welcome any suggestions you might have.
“Are there additional features you would like to see?
“Let us know how we can make Keanie Park a better home for you!
“Johnstone Burgh is committed to creating a top-tier facility that not only meets the needs of our team but also serves as a cornerstone for community engagement and sports development.
“We look forward to your active participation in shaping the future of Keanie Park.”