Work on new McHale Park playing surface is costing €250,000

The pitch at Hastings Insurance Brokers MacHale Park in Castlebar has been dug up as major works are taking place on the surface.

The project is being carried out by Claremorris-based firm, Killeen Sports Grounds.

Lateral drians are being installed across the playing area and over 1,000 tonnes of sand are being spread on it. The playing surface is also being extended at the old Bacon Factory end.

The costs of the investment is in the region of €250,000 and will be partly financed by a sports capital grant. Mayo County Board has also been raising funds for the project through the Laochra Maigh Eo initiative.

Michael Diskin, the board's assistant treasurer and a member of Castlebar Mitchels GAA Club, is the project manager.

The venue is not expected to reopen until the start of the 2022 National League campaign as the new surface, once reseeded, will be given time to rest.