Sports complex hits €200,000 jackpot

A STATE-of-the art €400,000 sports complex in Killaloe, promoted by a local committee that includes former Lions captain Keith Wood, has hit the jackpot in securing a grant for half of the overall cost.

Environment Minister Phil Hogan has given Clare Local Development Company (CLDC) official sanction to approve €200,000 in funding for Ballina/Killaloe Sports and Community Facilities Development Co Ltd.
“This project, costing almost €400,000 in total, will be of immense benefit to people in Ballina and Killaloe and I have no doubt that it will improve the quality of life and strengthen the social and economic fabric for the locality,” said Minister Hogan.
“I firmly believe that ongoing collaboration and co-operation between communities and local leaders, as well as agencies delivering state funding, is the best way to maximise the impact of all investment into local communities and ensure sustainable development going forward. 
“I would like to acknowledge and commend the substantial private investment in this particular development,” the Minister added.
He said the project will now go back to the board of CLDC for final approval, in line with the EU’s “bottom-up” approach to rural development.
A new group, also known as the East Clare Sports and Community Partnership (ECSCP), has secured planning permission to construct two full-size playing pitches, one all-weather floodlit pitch with fenced enclosure, partially floodlit training areas, walking/cycling trails, temporary changing facilities, on-site wastewater treatment system, new entrance gateways, site fencing, car parking and ancillary site works.
The subject site at Moys townsland lies on the western bank of the River Shannon, about two kilometres south of Killaloe and forms part of lands previously associated with Clarisford House and its estate.
It is proposed the land owned by Clare County Council, which is located about 250m south of the Killaloe Bypass, will be leased to the company for the benefit of local people.
In a recent Clare Champion interview, Keith Wood noted a need has been identified for sport and recreational facilities in the locality. “Work on this development started seven or eight years ago. The group are looking to provide some good playing and training areas and a small area for scouts and nice walkways.
“It is entirely community-focused. There is a need for a soccer and rugby pitch and we need to make sure they are provided. We will not be stopping anyone from using the development, it is for the youth of the area.
“The committee involves people from Ballina and Killaloe. We have got huge support from everyone involved and we are getting there slowly but surely,” he said.
Clare Fine Gael Senator Tony Mulcahy praised the contribution of CLDC to community life in rural parts of the county.
“Community projects such as this would not be possible without the support, financial and otherwise, provided by CLDC. The organisation has a proven track record of providing invaluable assistance to community and voluntary groups in securing LEADER funding,” he said.