Astro Turf facility opened in Kilrush

A state-of-the-art €320,000 AstroTurf facility in Kilrush has been described as an “important and significant addition” to West Clare’s recreational infrastructure by the Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council.

Councillor John Crowe was speaking at the launch of the new facility, on the Cooraclare Road, which coincided with the official opening of the Active Kilrush Sports Complex.

The opening of the complex was also attended by local community and sports organisations, officials from Clare County Council and Clare Local Sports Partnership, and Aitricity League Chairman and FAI Board member Eamon Naughton.

Funded by Clare County Council and through a €59,000 Sportnation grant from IPB and the Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport, the 75x38m AstroTurf pitch features an FAI-level 3G artificial playing surface.

Constructed by Sportslawn Ireland Ltd., the multipurpose pitch is complemented by security fencing, floodlights and CCTV, and is already being used by a variety of local sports clubs and schools.

Active Kilrush Sports Complex also features a soccer pitch and a running track.

Chairperson of the Management Committee of Kilrush Sports Complex, Liam Williams, said the construction of the new AstroTurf pitch and development of additional facilities at Active Kilrush Sports Complex is in response to a shortage of sports facilities in the town.