North Ballymena Rangers FC secures 25-year lease for Smithfield Playing Field, marking ‘new era’ for the club

North Ballymena Rangers Football Club has confirmed a major milestone in its rapid rise, after securing a 25-year lease for Smithfield Playing Field with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.

The agreement, approved at Monday night’s Full Council meeting, is being hailed by the club as the beginning of a transformative new chapter.

In a statement, the club said it was “very enthusiastic about this development, as it marks the beginning of a new era for our Club with the acquisition of its own dedicated pitch”.

The long-term lease brings to fruition several months of discussions between the club and council officials. The club extended “sincere gratitude to Mr Timothy Gaston MLA and Independent Clir Lawrie Phillpott for their all their hard work in facilitating this achievement”.

North Ballymena Rangers also acknowledged the support of council staff, adding: “We also wish to express our appreciation to Shaun and John at Mid & East Antrim Council for their engagement during on-site meetings over the past few months.”

The club said it believes regular use of Smithfield Playing Field “will greatly benefit the local community”, and that its objective is “to enhance this facility and foster a strong connection with the residents of the area”.

“Together, we are NBRFC,” the statement concluded.

Councillor Philpott: “A remarkable few years”

Independent Councillor Lawrie Philpott, who strongly advocated for the club during the council debate, welcomed the decision and praised the rapid progress made by North Ballymena Rangers FC since its formation.

He told Monday’s meeting:

“Just five short years ago, in 2020, this club was simply an idea—a spark of passion for the game.

From those humble beginnings, they have grown, not just in numbers, but in stature. No longer just a new team; but a well-organised and respected club that is making a real difference in the lives of their players, families, and supporters.”

Cllr Philpott highlighted the club’s development into a respected community organisation built on “teamwork, community spirit, and a sense of belonging”.

He said the new lease represented the “next crucial stage” in the club’s evolution — securing a permanent base at Smithfield.

“The dream of a place where history can be written, where players can train, and where the community can gather. That dream is the Smithfield complex here in Ballymena, an under-utilised space at present.”

He added that establishing a dedicated pitch and stadium would provide “stability, identity, and a top-tier facility that matches the top-tier ambition of this club”.

Cllr Philpott also passed on the club’s thanks to council directors Shaun and John, noting that the message came “from both myself and Timothy Gaston MLA as well for the help and support we were also afforded”.

Ending his remarks, he urged elected members and residents to back the club’s long-term vision:

“I am asking every member in this chamber & online, along with the whole community to support North Ballymena Rangers FC.

“Help them secure their future home at the Smithfield complex, and together, build a stronger club, a stronger community, and a true sporting heart for North Ballymena.”

A landmark step for a growing community club

Founded in 2020, North Ballymena Rangers FC has grown rapidly in both membership and community engagement, operating multiple teams and attracting strong local support.

The 25-year lease provides the structural foundation needed for further development, including ambitions for enhanced facilities, youth development programmes, and a more permanent home for training and competitive fixtures.

With the lease now approved, the club is expected to advance its longer-term plans for Smithfield, signalling sustained investment in grassroots sport in the north Ballymena area.