Ballymena Showgrounds set for major all-weather transformation after pitch upgrade approved

One of Ballymena’s most important sporting venues is set for a major transformation after plans for a new high-performance 3G hybrid pitch at Ballymena Showgrounds were approved on Thursday.

The project will replace the existing natural grass surface in the main arena with a modern all-weather system designed to significantly increase year-round usage, reduce weather-related disruption and create greater opportunities for clubs, schools and community groups across the borough.

The decision by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Planning Committee clears the way for a substantial investment in the town’s flagship sporting facility, helping to ensure the Showgrounds can meet growing demand for training, matches and community use regardless of seasonal conditions.

Armstrong’s role recognised as project moves forward

Welcoming the approval, Alderman Stewart McDonald praised fellow TUV councillor Matthew Armstrong for his work in helping drive the proposal forward.

Bannside Alderman Stewart McDonald (left) and Ballymena Councillor Matthew Armstrong (right)

He said:

“Today I was pleased, as part of the planning committee, give the green light to the application for the replacement of the existing natural grass surface at Ballymena Showgrounds with a new high-performance 3G hybrid pitch.

“While some will hail their role in voting for this, the reality is that giving approval to a sound application is easy. I want to acknowledge the hard work of my colleague, Councillor Matthew Armstrong who has been a driving force in this application from its early days.

“This is a significant investment in one of the borough’s premier sporting facilities and will help ensure that Ballymena Showgrounds remains fit for purpose for many years to come.”

McDonald said modern all-weather surfaces allow facilities to be used far more intensively throughout the year, reducing cancellations caused by poor weather and increasing access for users across all age groups.

“Ballymena has a proud sporting tradition and it is important that our infrastructure keeps pace with the demands being placed upon it. This upgrade will help maximise the use of the Showgrounds while supporting participation in sport across all age groups.”

What the project will deliver

Impression of the new high performance 3G hybrid pitch installed at Ballymena Showgrounds

The approved development relates solely to the resurfacing of the existing main arena pitch within the established Showgrounds complex, located approximately 1.4 kilometres north-east of Ballymena town centre.

The scheme includes:

• Removal of the existing natural grass surface and underlying soil

• Installation of a new full-size high-performance 3G hybrid pitch system

• Construction of engineered sub-base and performance layers

• New primary and secondary drainage networks

• Installation of an automated irrigation system

• New stormwater management infrastructure including a cellular attenuation tank

The site extends to just under one hectare and existing access arrangements via St Patrick’s Link and Warden Street will remain unchanged.

Planning officers recommended approval

In a report presented to councillors, planning officer Sean O’Kane recommended that planning permission be granted.

The application progressed without objection from relevant statutory consultees, with planners concluding that the proposal was acceptable in planning terms.

A Drainage Assessment was required because part of the site lies marginally within a surface water climate change constraint area.

The assessment outlined proposals for a new surface water drainage system beneath the pitch, together with hardstanding gullies and stormwater attenuation measures designed to manage runoff from the upgraded facility.

Planning officers were satisfied that the drainage arrangements would adequately address flood risk and environmental considerations associated with the development.

Long-term benefits for Ballymena sport

The approval comes amid increasing demand for modern sporting infrastructure capable of supporting greater levels of participation throughout the year.

Unlike traditional grass surfaces, high-performance hybrid systems can accommodate substantially higher levels of use while remaining playable during periods of adverse weather, helping to reduce fixture postponements and training disruptions.

For local sports clubs, schools and community organisations, the project promises improved access to one of Ballymena’s premier sporting venues and a facility better equipped to meet future demand.

Once completed, the upgraded surface is expected to allow significantly more hours of use throughout the year, helping to reduce cancellations during periods of poor weather while increasing availability for sporting organisations, schools and community groups.

For a venue that sits at the heart of Ballymena’s sporting life, the approval marks the beginning of one of the most significant upgrades to the Showgrounds in recent years.