Harps to proceed with
new stadium development
February 03, 2005
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| Elevation
| Floor Plan
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Following the clubs hugely successful AGM on Sunday 31st January,
Finn Harps FC's intentions to pursue an ambitious new stadium development
were confirmed and backed by the club's shareholders.
The club's ground development
committee made a detailed presentation to the shareholders on the
options of re-developing Finn Park, or moving to a new purpose built
facility across the river in Stranorlar. Estimated costs and possibilities
for funding both options were presented and the committee made a recommendation
that to move ground was the only option to secure improved facilities
to the highest UEFA license level while maintaining funding for the
football side of operations and attempting to consolidate the clubs
position in the Premier Division.
It was reported that after much pre-planning consultation an application
for the new facility had been lodged with the County Council and a
decision was expected at the end of March. Funding for the new stadium
is to be sourced from a sale of the current stadium at Finn Park and
an application for Sports Council funding.
The new ground is to be owned
by the Trustees who own the current ground and the club confirmed
that the Trustees are in favour of the move in principle on the basis
that an improved facility can be provided.
The new stadium proposals were
on display at the AGM and comprise a 6720 seater stadium with 4 stands
and state of the art changing facilities and a three storey administration
building including offices, control room and club rooms including
one overlooking the pitch. The development is located on a site off
Railway Road between the Mart and the Finn Valley Centre complex.
Considerable car parking is provided on site and nearby, while access
will be via the new road adjacent to the Regional Training Centre,
with pedestrian access direct from Railway Road.
The new ground will be developed
on a phased basis and the Club intend to remain at Finn Park until
the new Stadium is ready. The club now intend to complete the planning
process, and deal with interested parties to negotiate a sale agreement
for Finn Park, and contract for construction of the new complex, in
consultation with the Trustees. It is estimated that the club will
have to remain at Finn Park for at least 2 more playing seasons.