Plans for new pitch and track for Mayo ATU students and community

ATU Mayo wants to develop its playing pitch and running track for use by students and the wider community.

Concern that the existing facilities, acknowledged as needing upgrading, are 'closed' to the community has been addressed by campus head Justin Kerr: They are open.

He explained at a meeting with local councillors that the current pitch and track are not fit for purpose.

A new track and pitch, at the rear of the campus, is needed, and not just just for the ATU but for use by the community, said Mr. Kerr.

They have been engaging with Sports Partnership Ireland for an eight-lane tartan track, as well as a throwing area for sports like javelin and shot putt.

He asked for the council members' support for 'a strong community initiative'.

Acknowledging that both students and the community would benefit, Councillor Cyril Burke said elected members should look at GMA funding for the project next year.

Councillor Blackie Gavin said at the moment there seems to be a problem where if the community need to use the facility they have to get permission from Galway. He wanted to see that resolved.

If it was to be a community facility everything had to be done through the local campus, he said.

Mr. Kerr said there is an online booking system, which is Galway based, but it was under his remit. Galway don't manage it.

If there were any issues, let him know and he would remove them, he stated.

“My position is that it is a community facility.”