Delight at soccer pitch upgrade on Kildare/Laois border

"This is a game-changer not just for the club, but for the entire community.
Delight at soccer pitch upgrade on Kildare/Laois border

An impression of what St Anne's AFC facilities in Ballylinan will look like after the development is completed

THERE was delight in on the Laois/Kildare border when the local soccer club St Anne’s AFC were granted full planning permission for a major upgrade of their playing facilities.

The upgrade for the Ballylinan club will see the addition of a full-size AstroTurf pitch, a community walking track, new floodlighting and an upgraded car park which the club transforming the grounds into a state-of-the-art hub for sport and recreation.

Club chairperson Oliver Berry expressed his delight at the news.

He said: “I’m over the moon for such a great development coming to Ballylinan. This is a game-changer not just for the club, but for the entire community.” 

Club Secretary Cliff McDonagh said that the project has been in the works for some time.

He added: “It’s a long time coming. Now the focus shifts to getting it done and delivering on what we’ve planned.” 

Treasurer Eric Kenna shared his enthusiasm about the next phase of the project. 

“It’s all about the community coming together. I’m really looking forward to raising the funds alongside our members and supporters to make this vision a reality.” 

The development is expected to benefit all age groups, from youth teams to senior squads, as well as providing a safe and welcoming space for local residents to walk, exercise, and enjoy. Work is expected to commence in the coming months.

The club has also organised a fundraising Family Fun Day on 22 June from 11am to 6pm on the club grounds.

There will be live music, bouncy castles and over 20 other activities taking place on the day to suit all ages.

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Kildare Nationalist