New Islandmagee football stand will have capacity for more than 60 spectators
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has granted planning permission for a football stand at Islandmagee Football Club’s Wilbourne Park.
A council report said the proposed site at 68 Middle Road, in the Ballystrudder area of Islandmagee is a “small section of land to the east of the existing pitch”.
The report said the modular stand will have capacity for 63 people. It will measure approximately 12 metres by 2.5 metres and will be open on three sides with a corrugated steel rear wall and roof.
“In line with strategic policy, this proposal for upgraded facilities at an existing football club will help meet the needs of the rural area,” the report stated. “The proposed spectator stand is located within the confines of the existing sports ground and is intended to provide upgraded facilities.
“While the proposal does not constitute the development of a new sports facility, it involves the infrastructure improvements within an established sports ground.
“The development is not expected to give rise to any additional impacts in terms of noise, traffic and other general disturbance. The proposal is therefore unlikely to have an adverse impact on the amenity of nearby residents.
“It is not anticipated that the proposal would generate high levels of noise and there is no floodlighting associated with the development.”
Islandmagee FC has been fund-raising for the new stand online with a target of £21,000. An online post explained: “We are experiencing an exciting period of growth, with three senior teams and two youth teams playing at our home ground, Wilbourne Park.
“To meet the growing demand from our expanding club and ensure we meet new ground regulations from the NI Conference League for the 26/27 season, we must install a new, covered spectator stand.
“This project is essential for us to continue competing at our current level and provide a safe, accessible and comfortable experience for everyone who comes to support the team.
“Our current uncovered terracing is a barrier for many supporters, especially the elderly, those with mobility issues, and young families, who find it difficult to stand for a full match, particularly in bad weather.”
The Olympic Legacy Fund has provided £13,650 of match funding for the project.
The club’s post explained: “Our project is proudly supported by the Sport NI Olympic Legacy Fund, a £1 million investment programme, created to build a lasting legacy from the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The fund helps local clubs and community organisations across Northern Ireland improve sports facilities and inspire more people to get active.
“This project will have a positive impact that extends far beyond the football pitch. By providing a new spectator stand, we will make football matches more accessible to everyone, including the elderly and those with mobility issues.”