New Showgrounds to have 6,000 seats
SLIGO ROVERS has unveiled plans for an ambitious redevelopment of the Showgrounds.
The master plan – which includes development of the stands, the creation of a plaza and a new academy centre based elsewhere in the town – is set to cost €17.3 million.
The plan was developed in conjunction with Rhatigan Architects.
The redeveloped Showgrounds would have a seated capacity of 6,000, surpassing all requirements of a Uefa Category 3 stadium.
The existing Treacy Avenue and Railway End stands will be retained with alterations, the most noteable change being the addition of a roof to the latter stand.
An entirely new stand will be built at the Church Hill Road End while the current Jinks Avenue Stand will be replaced by a brand new one.
New floodlights, turnstiles, hospitality spaces, shops, corporate and sponsors facilities, offices, meeting rooms, upgraded media facilities, multiple changing rooms and a gym would be part of the redevelopment. A provisional agreement has also been reached with Sligo RFC to facilitate games to reflect the club’s intention for the redeveloped ground to be a multipurpose venue. It is also hoped that provincial rugby games will be hosted there.
The club are actively seeking land within the Sligo area for the development of a home for the expanding Sligo Rovers academy.
Preliminary discussions have taken place with Sligo County Council and a site in the region of eight acres is desired to cater for the needs of the expanding size of the club.
Sligo County Council is also among the bodies to pledge their support to the club’s masterplan.
The council’s acting chief executive Tom Kilfeather, said: “Sligo County Council commends Sligo Rovers on the preparation of their master plan for the Sligo Showgrounds.”
“Sligo Rovers are a valued presence in our community, and since the club was established in 1928, their grounds have been available for a range of other sports and activities.” “Throughout its history it has welcomed people from all countries and backgrounds, this tradition and ethos reflecting the cultural diversity of Sligo over the 20th century.”
“The transformation of the ground under the master plan would be a major enhancement of the recreational offering in Sligo, and will be a landmark achievement for the club and the wider community.”
“Sligo County Council fully supports Sligo Rovers Management Committee in the delivery of the objectives set out in the master plan.”
The project has also been warmly welcomed by Mayor of Sligo Cllr Rosaleen O’Grady. She said: “I would like to congratulate the management committee of Sligo Rovers on the launch of their master plan for the Showgrounds. The outstanding progress Sligo Rovers are making on and off the field this year is a great source of pride for the club’s supporters and the wider community.”
“Over recent years the Showgrounds has been transformed into one of the finest league venues in the country, and the new master plan brings this ambition to a new level.”