Langley Road playing fields upgrade appeal

Langley Road playing fields upgrade appeal

28 February 2018

THE need to upgrade sports pitches at the Langley Road playing fields in Ballynahinch topped the agenda during a recent meeting between local politicians and senior Newry, Mourne and Down Council officials.

Strangford MP Jim Shannon and Rowallane councillors Billy Walker and Terry Andrews met with local authority director Michael Lipsett and DJ Morgan. Also taking part in the meeting were representatives from the Langley Young Men soccer club and Langley Road Community Group.

Mr Shannon said the meeting provided an opportunity to highlight the need for the grass football pitches, which have been unplayable for many months — to have a new drainage system installed.

“It would appear the flood water lying on top of the pitches is not finding its way to the drains underneath,” said the MP. “The only solution is to remove all the soil and put in an adequate draining system.”

Mr Shannon said Cllrs Walker and Andrews have already backed such a proposal and he hopes the local council will ensure the work is carried out.

“Council officers have agreed to prioritise the required drainage work at the Langley playing fields as no games have been played all winter. This cannot continue,” said the MP.

“There are a number of projects for the council to complete, but at the top of the list must be the sports pitches at Langley where it is hoped drainage work can commence early in the new financial year. Thanks to council officials and local councillors for their commitment and hard work.”

Cllr Walker said that because the soccer pitches were playable, Langley Young Men had had to switch their games to Assumption Grammar School which resulted in a significant financial outlay.

“The issue with the pitches is one I am very aware of,” he said. “I have been trying to work with the local council to resolve the problems so these pitches can be fully utilised by sports teams and the community. I am also hopeful that the shale pitches at Langley Road can be upgraded and money earmarked to replace the current pavilion which has long since passed its sell-by-date,” he added.

Cllr Andrews described the meeting with council officials as “positive” and said he was pleased there was a recognition of the need for work to be carried out at the pitches.