Armagh GAA have unveiled plans for a new multi-million pound training facility.
It comes as part of the Armagh County Board’s three year ‘vision’ which includes the ambitious proposal for the state-of-the-art venue.
There are also plans to improve upon what is currently available at clubs grounds across the county, with plans to increase the numbers of grounds with covered stands.
At present only a handful of clubs can boast covered stands.
The £2.5m training facility in Portadown will have three full-size pitches, as well as one full size 3G pitch with catch nets and floodlighting
It will have a strength and conditioning centre with meeting facilities and associated car parking.
The plan also touches on other areas including the development of coaching practices, enhancing competitions and culture, implementing a strategy for increasing the number of referees and expanding the vision for good governance.
Paul McArdle (Armagh GAA Chairman) said: “The stated outcomes in our Strategic Plan are ambitious, but achievable and are underpinned by our focused vision for Armagh.
“I am confident that together we can deliver for Armagh GAA as a whole.
“We have a vision of where we need to be and this is strengthened by the great family of clubs, members and officers who continually support our County and will assist in the implementation of this plan over the next three years.
“We have identified a number of key themes, one of which is improving our infrastructure and facilities, and this is reinforced by plans to develop a new County Training Facility strategically located in Portadown.
The proposed development will enhance the existing facilities at St. Malachy’s Hurling Club on the Moy Road.”
Armagh GAA Development Officer, Padraig Haughey, added: “This £2.5m investment will provide facilities which will cater for all our County teams and academy squads, and provide a further option for competitive club games across all codes.
“The new 20-acre facility will include three full-size floodlit grass pitches, spectator stand, ball wall and gym with adjoining changing facilities.
“I am delighted that our Clubs endorsed the plans for the new facility at the County Committee Meeting on Tuesday night.”
Read the full strategic plan here.
