Plans have officially been submitted to Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council for provision of a new natural grass football pitch and community hub building in Markethill.
The plans – which were first revealed by Armagh I in January 2024 – have been submitted in the name of Stephen Black, on behalf of Markethill Swifts FC.
They are for both phase one and two of the development at 30D Seaboughan Road, adjacent and immediately south of 19 Ashgrove, Markethill, Armagh.
Phase one of the plans seek permission to replace the existing pitch at Ashgrove playing fields, with a 100m x 60m natural grass football pitch alongside the erection of new 3m high NK boundary fencing, a 5.7m high ball stop fence behind both goalposts and a 1.2m high fence surrounding pitch.
Permission has also been sought, in phase two, for the construction of a club house and a second 40m x 60m grass pitch.
Phase two also includes a new 3m high NK fencing to boundary, 5.7m high ball stop behind both goalposts and 1.2m high fence surrounding pitch with the request for an extension to the car park.
Related: Markethill community to benefit from ‘Swift’ redevelopment of Ashgrove playing field
Speaking to Armagh I back in January, club secretary Stephen Hartley said: “The Ashgrove project will provide a main grass pitch which will be secured and a second ‘community training’ pitch which will remain open at all times.
“We want to redevelop the area into a safe and secure space for the youth in the area to come and play football. The community pitch will be open at all times so they can come and go at their leisure.”
According to Stephen, the club house – which would also double as a ‘community hub’ – would serve as an asset to the entire community.
“Any community groups or members of the public who wish to use it should be able to do so,” said Stephen.
Committee members from the football club held a community engagement meeting towards the end of April which Stephen says was “well attended by local residents”.
He added: “We outlined our plans for the area and took on board feedback and concerns. All in all it was a really positive meeting.”
The improvements would allow for an increase in weekly matches, provide an additional space for training and the club house would greatly enhance the overall player and visitor experience.
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