Call for floodlighting to be provided for Melvin

A MOTION will be presented to council this afternoon (Thursday) calling for the provision of floodlighting at the Arena Pitch at Melvin Sports Complex.

Brought by Sinn Féin councillor Michaela Boyle, the proposal also involves the transfer to Derry City and Strabane District Council of the existing football pitch at Lisnafin to allow for its further development.

Speaking about the motion which is to be heard at today’s full monthly meeting of council Cllr Boyle said, “Following representations from stakeholders, I have submitted this two-part motion and hope to secure the support of other councillors for it, so as to provide better opportunities for those involved with sports locally.

“In the first part of the motion, I am calling upon council to further enhance the Arena Pitch at Melvin to include the provision of floodlights which will further benefit sports clubs across the Strabane district and allow local clubs to progress to a higher grade.

“In the second part of the motion, I am calling upon council to explore the transfer of the pre-existing football pitch at Lisnafin Park from the Housing Executive into council ownership so as to allow for its further development.

“The pitch has been an ever present at the centre of the estate providing sporting facilities for the local community and sporting clubs. The work to date, carried out by Lisnafin/Ardnalee Trust Cross Community Development Association alongside the Strabane Neighbourhood Renewal / Growth Partnership, must be commended. The transfer and redevelopment of this facility would massively increase sport and recreation in the area.”