Brand new 3G pitch planned for Valley

It comes after the local authority commissioned a wide-ranging review of pitches in the area, which also recommended a technical assessment of the surface at the Valley’s sand AstroTurf and a new pavilion at Three Mile Water playing fields.

The council says it plans to address these recommendations and more over the next number of years, based on a “priority ranking” system.

Newtownabbey’s Mayor, Fraser Agnew, believes the new floodlit 3G surface will prove popular, and will benefit sport in the area.

“I think the evidence is there to show these kind of pitches are well used,” he said.

“We have the Zest pitches, but there is a need for a larger pitch because teams playing in leagues need the facility.

“We have seen by the way the pitches at Crusaders and Cliftonville have been used that there is a need and a market for it.”

Alderman Agnew also revealed talks have taken place about ugrading the current astro pitch at the Valley for hockey, and welcomed plans for a modern pavilion at Three Mile Water.

He added: “The pavilion is long overdue, and everyone who uses the facilities there know it’s long overdue.

“I’m delighted to be able to say there is some movement on it.”

Several local clubs have been invited to attend a workshop at Mossley Mill on Friday, September 6 to discuss how the projects may impact them.