Plans lodged for development at Ballycomoyle GAA grounds

A significant redevelopment of the Ballycomoyle GAA facilities is being proposed following the submission of a planning application to Westmeath County Council.

The application, which was received by council planners on June 16, outlines a range of proposed improvements and expansions at the club grounds in Robinstown, Ballycomoyle, approximately 4km north of Castlepollard.

Ballycomoyle GAA are seeking permission and retention permission for a number of features, including the construction of a new 233-square-metre multi-purpose community building incorporating a first-floor area.

Plans also include an extension to the existing clubhouse, providing two additional dressing rooms, a referees room, and various modifications and alterations to the current facilities.

Further proposed developments include the installation of a 50m x 23m all-weather astroturf training area with associated fencing and floodlighting, the relocation of the existing playing pitch, and the construction of a floodlit walking track around the perimeter of the site.

A new skills wall and a reconfigured car parking area also form part of the plans.

The application also seeks permission to decommission the existing septic tank and replace it with a new wastewater treatment unit and percolation area.

In addition, retention permission is being sought for an extension of the site boundaries to the north and north-east. That area is currently used as a training ground, and the club intend to utilise it for the development of a new playing pitch with floodlights, ball-stop netting and associated site works.

The Ballycomoyle grounds currently comprise a single playing pitch and two dressing rooms. The site is bounded by mature hedgerows to the north, east and west, and a wall and entrance gate to the south.

A decision on the application will be made by Westmeath County Council following the statutory planning process with an anticipated conclusion date of August 18 next.