Work has started on the replacement of a number of synthetic sports pitches as part of a major investment programme by Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon (ABC) Borough Council.
Contractors (Kompan and Haffey) will carry out the resurfacing and enhancement works at Ardmore 2G hockey pitch and Cathedral Road 3G pitch in Armagh, which are included in Phase 1 of the Synthetic Pitch Replacement Programme.
The upgrade of the sporting facilities under Phase 1 are part of an investment by ABC Council of just under £2million, which represents a significant commitment to deliver high-quality, well-maintained facilities in clean and safe, shared spaces.
Later this year, further projects which will be carried out under phase one of the Synthetic Pitch Replacement Programme include Lurgan Park tennis courts; North Lurgan MUGA (multi-use games area); Ardowen MUGA, Craigavon; Churchill Park MUGA, Portadown; Scotch Street MUGA, Craigavon.
Ahead of the works starting at Ardmore and Cathedral Road, Council had communicated directly to clubs and service users of these facilities, informing them of the works and expected timelines for completion.
Council will also be communicating directly with the users of the other facilities once timeframes are confirmed, and will work to ensure that any disruption to sporting activity is minimised.
Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Jessica Johnston joined elected members from the Armagh area on a visit to the commencement of works at Ardmore. She said: “This is the start of a very significant programme of works which will deliver real and tangible improvements to the community.
“Investing in these sporting facilities, is vital in supporting our local sports clubs and encouraging more people to get active. As we know, sport not only brings fantastic physical health benefits, it also has many mental health benefits. Sport brings people together and as a Council, we are delighted to be able to deliver this support.”
The Deputy Lord Mayor added: “We look forward to more of these projects being completed right across the Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon (ABC) Borough later this year.”
