Plans have been submitted for an extension to one of Co Armagh’s “oldest and largest” GAA clubs to include a new dedicated gym facility.
Proposals submitted in the name of Mr Sean Callan, of Killeavy GAC, were lodged with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council for consideration.
They relate to the youth club facilities at 59a Forkhill Road and cover an area of 0.55 hectares.
A supporting planning statement explains the rationale for a first floor extension to the existing building, in that it is needed to accommodate a new club gym, together with internal alterations to the existing ground floor layout.
The works include the formation of a new club administration office, new internal staircase and provision of a disability-accessible lift to the new proposed first floor.
If approved, the new gym will be available for use by club members.
The need for the new facilities are expressed in the supporting document, which states: “The provision of a new club gym facility is vital to the continued development and operational needs of the GAA club, reflecting both modern training standards and the club’s expanding participation base.
“As a multi‑team organisation supporting juvenile, youth, adult, male and female squads, the club requires year‑round access to appropriate strength‑and‑conditioning space to ensure player welfare, injury prevention and performance development.”
It adds that the existing gym is no longer fit for purpose, given that it is “small” and inadequate in “layout and capacity”.
If given the go-ahead by Council, the new gym will be viewed as an “essential investment” in the club’s future, supporting community functions.
No additional parking spaces will be introduced under plans as proposals do not generate additional traffic demand, given the new gym will continue to serve the same membership base and operational profile as the current facility.
The club has been officially recognised as Ulster Club of the Year in 2012.
The club fields over 40 teams across men’s, ladies’ and juvenile football, hurling, and camogie, making it “one of the county’s most active community sporting organisations”.
The application will be advertised shortly.
