The women’s rugby team at one of County Armagh’s oldest clubs could be in line for new changing facilities as part of a proposed extension plan.
Lurgan Rugby Club – which first fielded a team back in 1880 – has submitted plans to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council for a proposed extension to their existing clubhouse.
Known today as Lurgan Rugby Football & Cricket Club (RFCC) – owing to the 1922 amalgamation of Brownlow and Lurgan YMCA Cricket Clubs – their facilities are currently based on Pollock Drive, Lurgan.
Plans submitted in the name of Neil McCartan on behalf of McCartan Muldoon Architects, indicate that the floor plan for the proposed extension would cover some 127.6 sq metres.
If granted, it is intended that this extension would provide new changing facilities for the growing club’s women’s squad.
The new extension would lead in from the left of the existing building’s main entrance to a small foyer with a referee’s room to the right and a plant room to the left.
There would be two female changing rooms off the foyer, each providing adequate space for 21 players, with shower and WC facilities to the rear of the changing rooms.
In February of last year, Lurgan RFCC launched a massive fundraising effort to bolster their ambition to improve the clubhouse.
A GoFundMe page opened to collate funds read: “Lurgan Rugby Football & Cricket Club is in the heart of the community in the Lurgan area.
“We are currently home to successful men’s and women’s teams, a thriving ‘Tigers’ section and Youth section for both Rugby and Cricket.”
As the first phase of refurbishment approached the page was set with a target of raising £20,000 during the 23/24 season “with further improvements planned for following seasons”.
It continued: “The investment in these refurbishment works will lead to increased use of the clubhouse by members and the local community, generating additional income for the club.
“Longer term we also aim to further enhance the overall appearance and functionality of the clubhouse.
“Community, camaraderie, and friendship are still at the heart of Rugby and Cricket in Lurgan, and we look forward to seeing you support our efforts in transforming a new look Pollock Park throughout the 24/25 season.”
The application is due to be advertised shortly.
