Planning approval for £1.25-million Loughgall project designed to develop Lakeview Park site

The project has been designed to benefit the Lakeview Park club from the grassroots game up to senior level by housing all areas on one site.

The first clear sign of progress is expected to arrive before the end of 2016 with the installation of a 3G pitch at the Lakeview Meadows all-weather area.

However, long-term goals include a 200-seater stand, club pavillion and enhanced floodlights.

“It has taken a lot of hard work by club volunteers to get to this point,” said John McCann, a member of the Loughgall committee and former chairman. “Having planning approval confirmed is a big step forward and we are funding aspects within the club as well as actively seeking external aid.

“We have five years in which to make progress on whatever fronts, possible based on the ideas put forward to the Irish Football Association.

“Lakeview Meadows will gain a 3G pitch by mid-Autumn, with the long-term aim to introduce fencing, floodlights, changing facilities and parking.

“At the main pitch, our plans include a 200-seater stand behind the bottom goal near the golf course, floodlights, turnstiles, a toilet block and control tower. “The idea is to provide everything on the one site, from youth level up to senior.

“Teams will train on the 3G pitch, along with games and it is an exciting development, with funding key but the plans in a state of readiness.”