Mayo's League of Ireland club seek to rezone lands for top facility

THE League of Ireland is set to make an indelible imprint on Mayo’s sporting landscape.

Local club Mayo FC has made initial moves to acquire a substantial site in Castlebar to accommodate its growing need for pitch facilities.

Talks have been taking place with elected members and planning officials of Mayo County Council with a view to rezoning lands at Ballinrobe Road, adjacent to Milebush Park, from 'strategic reserve' to recreational-use purposes.

The change of zoning would pave the way for Mayo FC to purchase the site for the development of a dedicated football facility with a full-sized grass pitch, an all-weather training pitch, two half-size all-weather training pitches and a clubhouse with changing rooms, a high performance gym, classroom and medical room.

This will allow Mayo FC 'begin the next phase of its journey' with a multi-million-euro investment that would place Mayo on the national football map.

Those promoting the proposal regard it as a unique opportunity to secure the future of the game in the county.

Mayo FC is one of 26 teams in the League of Ireland academy and currently plays its home matches at Milebush Park, currently known as Umbro Park.

However, the facilities there are shared and limited, with Mayo FC's five academy squads using the same astroturf pitch.

There have been times when they had to rent other club facilities to train or to fulfil fixtures.

Demand for extra space is now increasing due to Mayo FC having more teams and players, forcing the organisation to look at providing a permanent home with direct access to Milebush Park and its parking facilities.