Have your say on the redevelopment of Ballymena Showgrounds

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is urging the public to take part in a consultation on plans to redevelop the showgrounds-home of Ballymena United.

The aim is to upgrade the facilities to a UEFA Category 3 stadium with a capacity of 6,500 that can be used both for UEFA club competition and Northern Ireland U16 to U21 European and World Cup qualifying games and challenge games.

Mayor Councillor William McCaughey said: “Sport, particularly football within Mid and East Antrim, plays a key role in ensuring active healthy lifestyles, community participation, engagement and civic pride.

“We want to increase the capacity of the showgrounds and enhance the stadium’s ability to host higher-profile fixtures in the future. It is also anticipated that the redevelopment and new-look facility can also provide a potential location and home for an Irish FA centre of excellence for women’s football in Northern Ireland.

“As well as a gym, function rooms, a new hybrid pitch and enhanced flood lighting, the Showgrounds would be one of the most modern sporting facilities in Northern Ireland.

“It is hoped that the people of Mid and East Antrim can share in MEA United’s vision and take part in the consultation process.”

There will be an online public webinar on 19 August at 6:30pm. To join register online at W: www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/BallymenaShowgroundsConsultation

The consultation runs 24 June 2021 to 17 September 2021.