A football pitch at Newry is expected to be upgraded to allow locals teams to share the facility as they compete in their respective leagues.
The Derryleckagh complex had been due to undergo improvement works in two years time, with £150,000 having been earmarked.
Part of these works was to upgrade one of the soccer fields to Intermediate standard in order for local clubs to book and hire in their various competitions.
But on Monday, Newry, Mourne and Down councillors will be asked to approve pressing ahead and upgrading one of the pitches now at a cost of £36,000.
The proposal will go to the active and healthy communities committee off the back of a request from the local Windmill Stars FC to use a pitch at the complex on a shared basis with the Carnbane League.
Officers, in a report to committee, explain: “This club plays within Division 1 of the Intermediate League. Therefore, in order for them to play at this facility next season, the pitch requires upgrading works, 1.2m high fencing around the pitch and ballstop fencing behind the goal areas.
“The works to bring the council facility up to a higher standard will cost £36,000 and will allow both the Carnbane League teams and Windmill Stars FC to use on a regualar basis within respective leagues and cup competitions with overall improvement of this council sports facility.”
Council officers have already met with the Carnbane League and Windmill Stars to discuss usage and hire charges.
The committee will be asked to approve the investment now to have the work started ahead of the new Carnbane and Intermediate Leagues kicking off.
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