Knockan Road playing fields users ‘deserve better’, says councillor as concerns raised over facilities

Football clubs and other users of Knockan Road Playing Fields in Ballymena are continuing to face problems with ageing facilities and maintenance issues, according to a local councillor who says action is needed to improve the site.

Ulster Unionist Party Braid councillor Alan Barr has highlighted a series of concerns affecting the popular playing fields, including the continued use of shipping containers as changing rooms and toilets, alongside a list of maintenance defects he says require attention.

Barr said one of the biggest frustrations for clubs is that players are still relying on ISO containers for changing and toilet facilities rather than permanent amenities.

He said the issue had previously been raised with the Minister for Communities through North Antrim MLA Jon Burrows, but the response focused on sports clubs applying for funding rather than addressing the concerns directly.

With work yet to begin on the proposed new community centre at the site, Barr said he intends to raise the issue again with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.

List of maintenance concerns

The councillor also said he has written to the council director responsible for playing fields seeking answers on several maintenance issues that he believes are affecting users.

Among the concerns he has raised are:

• Broken perimeter fencing.

• Drainage problems at the car park end of the site.

• Goalposts requiring maintenance.

• A damaged Perspex panel on one of the dugouts.

• Dugouts that flood during heavy rain.

• Whether more “ball-friendly” perimeter fencing should be installed.

Barr said he hopes to receive answers from council officers and will provide an update on any progress.

‘Users deserve better’

Speaking about the condition of the facilities, Barr said:

“Major issues around Knockan Road Playing Fields have once again been raised. I share the disappointment with pitch users.

“One major issue is that they are still using ISO containers for changing and toilet facilities. It is frustrating that they still have to use these.”

He added:

“I want to assure all users of the playing fields that I am taking this seriously — they deserve better.

“This is why I will always challenge decisions which compromise frontline facilities such as this.”

Love Ballymena has contacted the council for comment.

If confirmed, any response from the council is expected to clarify whether maintenance work is planned and whether longer-term improvements to changing facilities remain under consideration.