Kilkenny City football pitch to get huge €630,000 makeover
As featured in the Kilkenny People newspaper
Upgrade works on the Garringreen football pitch in Kilkenny City have received the green light, following a vote from city based councillors.
Under the plans, the city pitch, which is located between Johnswell Road and Hebron Road, will receive a complete makeover on and off the pitch.
A new gravel walking track and artificial low-level lighting are all due to be constructed alongside some 4G astro-turf surfacing in the goal mouths.
Addressing councillors at Friday’s sitting of the Kilkenny City Municipal District, the facility “won’t be locked up” and will be a public facility.
Furthermore, two new dressing rooms and shower facilities are set to be built on the site, while some trees will be removed, but those works are expected to have a “minimal impact.”
An exact timeline is not yet known, but it’s anticipated the project can begin in Q1 or Q2 of 2027.
At present, both Ormonde Villa and St John’s play their home Kilkenny & District League matches on the site and currently hold a lease agreement with Parks Development.
It’s hoped the redeveloped facility will bring an end to anti-social behaviour and dog fouling in the area.
The upgrade works will cost in the region of €630,000 and are funded through the Sports Capital Programme and Kilkenny County Council.
Mayor, Cllr Andrew McGuinness proposed the motion, hailing the years of campaigning by people from ‘outside politics’.
“Proper facilities such as these will help clubs to expand and encourage more young kids into sport,” councillor in the area, Cllr Eugene McGuinness, stating, “it was badly needed.”
Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Joe Malone, described the plans as “very welcome”, noting, “the days are gone when you’re togging out in a ditch.”