Green light for Portlaoise Rugby Club's facilities expansion under 2021 master plan
They have had planning permission granted at their club grounds in Togher
Portlaoise Rugby Football Club (RFC) has been granted planning permission by Laois County Council for an extension to their changing rooms and retention of their gym facility, signalling the commencement of the first phase of their ambitious 2021 Green Infrastructure Consultation Plan.
The master plan, designed to guide the club’s development through 2030, presented multiple options for upgrading facilities. The club is now moving forward with Option 1, which focuses on expanding existing facilities and creating a more integrated clubhouse to meet growing demand from members and the wider community.
Under Option 1, the plan includes retaining and expanding existing structures which will see a new clubhouse complement the current buildings, which will be linked together, creating a more centralised hub. The old clubhouse will be transformed into a multi-use hall for community and club activities. The option also includes; two max-size pitches and outdoor training facilities, one max-size adult all-weather 3g/4g pitch and two training pitches.
The club’s master plan emphasises sustainability, biodiversity, and community engagement, with features like solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, and wildflower meadows integrated into the grounds.
The approval for the changing room extension is seen as a pivotal step towards realising the club’s vision of becoming a premier rugby facility for the region while fostering strong community connections.