Club invests £50,000+ in pitch refurbishment
The Executive Committee has confirmed a major investment in partnership with NM&DDC, towards some much-needed refurbishment of the club pitch on the Belfast Road.
Unfortunately, it does mean the pitch will be closed from Monday 22nd November for four weeks, to allow the work to take place.
The project, financially supported by Newry Mourne and Down District Council, is being managed by Clive Richardson Ltd (CRL) from Portadown, who are leading global specialists in the design, construction, renovation and maintenance of a wide range of sportsground surfaces.
Club Chairman Brian Lockhart explained, “The current pitch was installed in 2009 and has stood up really well to the use over the past 12 years. The sand has become compacted in some areas however, which results in pools of water lying on the pitch in heavy rain. This refurbishment will bring the surface back to its original state and will extend its life for another few years.”
“Although not the preferred time of the year to work at the pitch, the contractor’s availability was opportune and if we’re lucky with the weather, the work should be completed in a shorter time frame.”
“CRL are very experienced in pitch renovation and successfully completed a similar project in Newry last year. They have the only machine in Ireland that can hoover out all the existing sand and contaminants for disposal, making it ready for the new sand to be deposited.”
“We don’t need good weather to remove the existing sand, but we’re hoping for a window of a few dry days in December to enable the new sand to be spread across the surface.”
Supported by NM&DDC
Brian highlighted the support received from Newry Mourne and Down District Council. “The club are really grateful to NM&DDC for their support and financial assistance for the pitch renovation. Earlier in the year, the council awarded the club a 75% grant for the £50,000 spend towards the project, which ensured we could go ahead with the work.”
He continued, “The council has always been very supportive of the club over the years. They recognise the contribution we make to the local community and provide us with tangible and practical encouragement to help us continue to develop and grow hockey across all age groups and abilities in the area.”
Alternative arrangements during pitch closure
The chairman went on to clarify, “The club is finalising alternative arrangements for training sessions, youth coaching and all home matches due to be played during the period of closure. Our thanks go to Banbridge High School who have made their school pitch available to us for matches. We have also had a positive response from opposing teams to switch home advantage if we need to. Once we confirm availability of venues for youth coaching and senior training we'll contact those members directly impacted.”
There’s no doubt the project will make a huge difference to the pitch and will further enhance the already impressive facilities at the Belfast Road ground.
Hopefully all will be up and running once again well before the New Year and results will also be on the up for all the teams in the club!
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