£35m football stadium plan for Rugby Avenue

BUT it could be 2015 before the first sod is cut to begin development at the Rugby Avenue site.

Last Tuesday afternoon, councillors attending the monthly meeting were given a presentation by Ostrick and Williams Architects and Planners on the second stage of a feasibility study on the Mountsandel site.

The press were excluded from the presentation.

However, we have gained information on the scheme, which is being described as “signature project” for the region.

We understand that Water World and the Leisure Centre could be sold on by Council to help fund the development.

The new stadium, which will include a Leisure Centre, will also include a swimming pool with toddler pools and splash pools, similar to those at Water World.

Although plans are still at a very early stage, 4G football pitches, six five-a-side pitches and two eight-a-side pitches have been included, along with a hockey area and other grass pitches for multi sports use.

The next step in the project will see a business plan being drawn up, council officers will then begin looking into the funding process.

It is hoped that Coleraine Football Club will become sitting tenants of the new stadium, however no agreement has been reached at this stage.

Most councillors were in favour of the project, which could also see the return of the Milk Cup finals to Coleraine.