Sligo Rovers unveil 17.3 million 'masterplan' to redevelop the Showgrounds

Premier Division Sligo Rovers have unveiled an ambitious ‘masterplan’ to redevelop the Showgrounds at a cost of 17.3 million euro.

The Masterplan includes designs for a planned redevelopment of the Showgrounds – a move that will see the ground turn into a 6,000 all-seater stadium.

The facility will also house an academy hub for the north-west region of the country.

The plan has been endorsed by Sligo County Council and the Football Association of Ireland.

The redeveloped Showgrounds would also possess the requirements of a UEFA Category 3 stadium.

It includes the retention of the existing Tracey Avenue Stand and Railway End Stand, with alterations to both, the construction of a new stand at the Church Hill Road End and a new stand in place of the current Jinks Avenue Stand.

New floodlights, turnstiles, hospitality spaces, shops, corporate and sponsors facilities, offices, meeting rooms, upgraded media facilities, multiple changing rooms and a gym would be part of the redevelopment.

The Showgrounds pitch would be extended, and the playing surface changed to a hybrid pitch, an innovation that comprises 95% natural grass and delivers more playing time.

The club also hope that the ground can be used for other sports.

FAI chief executive Jonathan Hill said on the plans: “We talk a lot about football in the community, not just here in Ireland but across the globe, and Sligo Rovers are standard bearers in this regard.

“I am delighted to see the range of this Development Plan which reflects the club’s standing in the Sligo community in a fitting manner.

“Such development is a cornerstone of our vision for the future of all our League of Ireland clubs. Well done to all involved with this project.”