Clare County Council is being called on to develop a strategy for the delivery of all-weather playing pitches across the county.
The proposal aims to identify areas of the county best suited for multi-purpose facilities that will be available year round, particularly in times of inclement weather.
Under the proposal, complexes would be developed under a partnership model between schools and sports clubs, maximising opportunities for shared use.
No immediate funding is being sought under the plan, with the aim instead of strengthening future applications for grants under the Community Sports Infrastructure Fund.
Lisdoonvarna Fine Gael Councillor, Joe Garrihy, believes facilities similar to Lees Road should be developed in each of the county’s Local Electoral Areas.
He says plans need to be put in place urgenty to ensure Clare gets its fair share of sports funding.
It’s claimed additional all-weather pitches could also help reduce the disruption caused by poor weather during the soccer season.
Plans are progressed to replace the grass field at Frank Healy Park with an astroturf surface, with work to begin on the project in the next six weeks.
The facility would provide a fall-back option for clubs impacted by poor weather conditions over the winter months and would also be available to host underage FAI fixtures.
Clare District Soccer League Chairman, Donal Magee, says extra all-weather pitches are also essential for the wider development of sport among young people.
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