A rural,County Down cricket club – that continues to grow exponentially both on the field and off – is preparing to move into the next phase of development plans with over £40,000 of anticipated investment in their facilities.
Waringstown Cricket Club boasts a “proud history” and a total of six All-Ireland trophies as proof of their sporting standard.
Described as a “hub for cricket excellence and community engagement”, the club has also invested heavily in developing youth and women’s cricket in recent years, culminating in a “landmark” 2024 season in which their Women’s 1st XI won the Premier League, Challenge Cup, and finished runners-up in the All-Ireland Final.
The club continues to grow both on and off the field, building “strong community links and a vibrant, volunteer-driven culture”.
And to ensure that continued growth and positive community contribution, the club have evaluated their existing facilities, equipment and infrastructure for its ability to meet the demands of progression.
In September 2025, they received the green light from Council for the development of a brand new, state-of-the-art indoor training centre with four indoor cricket nets, alongside a new car park and associated site works.
Ahead of the indoor centre’s completion, the club are moving forward on a grounds scheme which, they say, will “modernise” ground operations and reduce the “physical and time burden” on volunteers.
It will also “build capacity” to stage larger matches and representative games which they add will “strengthen Waringstown’s role as a leading cricket venue in Northern Ireland and support the long-term sustainability of the club ahead of the indoor centre’s completion”.
To assist the progression Sport NI are contributing 65% of the total cost of this project, through The Olympic Legacy Fund.
Of the financial injection, the club said: “Their support is helping us make a lasting difference to cricket in our community — ensuring that Waringstown Cricket Club continues to grow, thrive, and provide opportunities for players of all ages and abilities.”
The exciting new project will see a ‘Mini Blotter’ with all fittings installed at a cost of £19,740, a Merlyn Bowling Machine and 36 Bowling Machine Balls at £14,022 and a Kress Robotic Mower at £9,300… with a total investment of £43,062.
Providing rationale for the purchases, they explain that the Mini Blotter is a “specialised piece of cricket ground equipment” used to remove standing water from covers and the outfield, significantly reducing volunteer time spent preparing the ground — particularly on wet match days. They say it will also “enhance the club’s ability to host larger fixtures more efficiently and reliably”.
The bowling machine – designed to replicate high-quality spin bowling – will “raise the standard of training across senior and youth teams, offering consistent, elite-level practice that supports player development and growth within our expanding membership”.
And, an outfield mower that “delivers consistent, professional-quality maintenance and presentation” will automate an essential task, reducing reliance on volunteer labour, improve efficiency, and ensure the facilities remain in top condition throughout the season.
The club believe in “full transparency” in regards to where money will be spent and encourage the community to make a pledge, spread the word, offer rewards for players and help with fundraising.
They add: “Waringstown Cricket Club is a vital community hub, bringing people of all ages together through sport, social connection, and shared purpose.
“Our facilities support senior and youth cricket, local schools, and community groups, promoting health, wellbeing, and inclusion.
“This project will ease the workload on volunteers, improve playing and training conditions, and strengthen our capacity to host larger fixtures that attract visitors and boost the local economy.
“Beyond cricket, our grounds and pavilion are regularly used for community events and gatherings, helping to foster stronger social ties and ensure Waringstown remains a thriving, welcoming place for everyone.”
