Planning approval granted for 3G soccer pitch, four tennis courts, cricket wickets and changing facilities

Members of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Planning Committee yesterday gave their approval to a scheme that will see the redevelopment of the former Clondermott High School, off Irish Street.

Members were informed at their meeting in the Guildhall today that the redevelopment scheme has which been submitted by Derry City and Strabane District Council, includes proposals for the development of a full size multi-use pitch for soccer, rugby and gaelic games, a full size synthetic 3G soccer pitch, four synthetic tennis courts, four synthetic cricket wickets and practice net facilities as well as a changing pavilion and staff facilities.

Welcoming the development, the Chairman of the Council’s Planning Committee, Cllr John Boyle said once developed, these facilities would be of huge benefit to the local community.

“This is a fantastic development that will provide the local community in Irish Street with top class sporting and recreational facilities on their doorstep. It will encourage participation in sport and activity and promote health and wellbeing in our communities, and is in keeping with the commitments set out in our Community Development / Inclusive Growth Plan for our City and District,” he said.

Sinn Féin Councillor Christopher Jackson welcomed the news.

He said: “This development will undoubtedly build on the great work that is currently ongoing between the communities in Irish Street  and Top Of The Hill.

Plans for the area include a full size Gaelic/Rugby pitch, a full size 3G soccer pitch, tennis courts, cricket rickets, a pavilion that will provide changing facilities ,and will also provide a much needed space to run community programs and events.

This iconic development will not only strengthen the work of bringing the two communities together it also has the potential to take away  an interface by creating a truly shared space where people of all ages and backgrounds will want to come to.