Kildare AFC launch €450,000 campaign for new 4G Astro Pitch

Kildare Town AFC are looking to raise €450,000 to build a new 4G Astro pitch with flood lights and are seeking public support in meeting this challenge. 

Kildare Town's population has exceeded 10,000 and is experiencing rapid growth with, as the club see it, no additional amenity infrastructure for the younger generation.

Based on the 2016 census figures, projections indicate that Kildare Town will be one of the youngest towns in the country and this will continue in the future due to continued housing development. 

The town has the largest DEIS school in the diocese with growing numbers year on year, the need for social infrastructure to help Kildare town absorb a growing population in a strong and resilient manner is essential.

The Club have applied for funding through Sports Capital Grant Ireland and will try to raise much needed funds along with grants to reach their target €450,000. At a recent visit to Club by Minister Thomas Byrne, responsible for Sports Cap Grants, he acknowledged the needs and commitment of clubs and said "most towns of this size would have several soccer clubs to support the population."

While the town population has doubled in a little over 20 years the pitches at the club grounds have remained the same. This situation is see as not sustainable and club volunteers have voiced their frustration at not being able to meet growing demands and particularly the Club ethos of supporting all in sport. The club see the development of an Astro pitch significantly improving capacity on site and insulate teams from 'rained off' events.

The club has acknowledged the challenge involved in delivering on this important goal and appeals to all the public who value amenities to help in four planned fund raisers to achieve this for Kildare town.

Seán O Fearghail, Ceann Comhairle and Minister Thomas Byrne, Minister of Sport attended to show their support, also in attendance were Noel Heavy, Mayor of Kildare, Newbridge MD, Martin Heydon,T.D, Senator Fiona O, Loughlin, Local Cllr. Suzanne Doye and Senator Mark Wall. The Ministers and Ceann Comhairle and all other guest members listened to the committee’s case and were shown around the club.

Kildare Town AFC member Ger Byrne said, “We believe that by investing in our club and supporting us through our grant application we will be able to achieve an Astro Pitch. Space for Sport is very limited in Kildare Town, and it is important that all grounds utilise that space to the maximum, a 4G Astro pitch will help our Club do that. A successful grant application will help future proof our town from anti-social behaviour and provide a healthy and sustainable amenity for all our young people to enjoy. This initiative will allow us to grow effectively and to strive and maintain a policy of community and inclusivity."

Furthermore, to balance any impact of development, Kildare Town AFC will dedicate a section of the grounds to wildflower growth, boosting biodiversity in our locality. The club say that the 4G Astro pitch will be a great investment in Kildare town's future.