Sligo Rovers have announced huge redevelopment plans that would see their home stadium's capacity increased to 6,100.
The plans, which include The Showgrounds becoming an all-seater stadium, would result in The Showgrounds exceeding the minimum requirements of a UEFA Category 3 stadium.
The club has announced that as of today, a planning application has been submitted to the Sligo County Council for the first phase of their 'Masterplan.'
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The redevelopment plans for the stadium are as follows:
- Redevelopment of the Showgrounds to be an all-seated stadium with a capacity in excess of 6,100 seats
- Construction of a new Spectator Stand at the Church Hill Road End (approx. 1,370 seats),
- Construction of a new Spectator Stand in place of the current Jinks Avenue Stand (approx. 2,060 seats),
- Minor alterations to the Tracey Avenue Stand including the erection of a TV gantry at the rear of the stand and the provision of new toilets beneath,
- Provision of a cantilevered roof to the existing Pet Stop End,
- Provision of additional turnstiles at the rear of the new Jinks Avenue Stand for away supporters,
- Upgrade of the carparking facilities on site including resurfacing, line marking and lighting,
- Upgrade of the playing surface to a higher specification whilst enlarging the pitch towards Church Hill Road to meet UEFA Category 3 pitch size standards.
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“This is a great day for Sligo Rovers Football Club and the first phase of our Masterplan we announced last year," said Sligo Rovers Chairman Tommy Higgins.
‘’In order to stay competitive in the Premier Division we have to bring more income into the club and The Showgrounds redevelopment is a vital part of our plans”
Commenting on the news, FAI CEO Johnathan Hill said, “Sligo Rovers to me epitomise all that is great about League of Ireland football with their commitment to providing the best pathways for male and female players of all ages."
"These plans for The Showgrounds also confirm the club’s desire to provide the very best facilities for all their players, members and supporters and they provide an example of how we can all work together – our clubs, the FAI and local and national Government – to drive Irish football forward within the framework of our FAI Strategy 2022-2025.’’
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