Malin GAA aims to shed new light on playing facilities

Malin GAA has applied for planning permission to upgrade the lighting facilities at its grounds and complete a perimeter walkway around the main pitch.

The planning application has been submitted by Patrick McLaughlin, chairperson, on behalf of Malin GAA, and seeks permission for the installation of six 20-metre-high poles fitted with LED floodlighting to serve the club’s main and training pitches.

The proposed works also include ducting and cabling, the removal of the existing metal halide floodlighting system, and the provision of a perimeter walkway around the main pitch with low-level lighting, alongside associated site works.

Documents lodged with the application state that the new LED floodlighting system would allow players to train and play safely in accordance with current guidelines and recommended lighting levels for football and hurling.

The planning documents highlight the energy-efficiency benefits of the proposed system, stating that LED fittings can use up to three times less energy than the existing metal halide lighting and last four to five times longer.

The proposed floodlights would be positioned at sufficient height on both sides of Connolly Park to distribute light more evenly across the playing surfaces. According to the application documents, the design would help eliminate poorly lit areas, which can affect playing conditions.

The lighting system would also be designed to maximise illumination on the pitches while minimising light pollution, including glare, sky glow and light spilling beyond the grounds.

The application states that the more focused lighting design would significantly reduce existing light spillage onto neighbouring properties and the surrounding environment.

In addition to the floodlighting upgrades, the club is seeking permission to provide the remaining sections of a perimeter walkway around the main pitch, complete with low-level solar lighting.

The proposed walkway would create a 0.56-kilometre circuit, offering an additional facility for people wishing to walk at the grounds outside of training sessions and matches.

Donegal County Council is due to make a decision on the planning application by the end of October.