Sligo Rovers have published a Masterplan for the club, detailing a new multi-million euro redevelopment of the Showgrounds, and the creation of an Academy Hub for the north west region.
The plan has been endorsed by Sligo County Council and the Football Association of Ireland.
It is big on ambition – but the club says the expansion plans are realistic and sustainable.
What the new 6000-seater Showgrounds stadium would look like…
Under the proposals, the Showgrounds stadium would be redeveloped into a 6000 all-seater UEFA Category 3 stadium – with new pavilion buildings, clubhouse, hospitality and business units and outdoor public plaza at the Church Hill road end of the ground.
There’ll be a bigger and better main pitch – with potential to host rugby matches in the close season. There’s already a preliminary agreement with Sligo rugby club in place.
A design proposal for the new outdoor public plaza at the Showgrounds
The other main plank of the Masterplan is Rovers growing Academy. The club plans to expand the number of teams to 13 by the middle of this decade. Rovers say they are actively seeking land to build a new Academy base which would have three playing pitches and other key facilities.
Sligo Rovers Chairman Tommy Higgins believes this Masterplan, if realised, will help future proof the club for the next 60 years.
He spoke to Ocean FM Sport’s Austin O’Callaghan.
The total cost of the entire project as compiled by Rhatigan Architects is 17.3 milion euro.
The ambition is to get it done in time for the club’s 100th birthday – in 2028.
The full Sligo Rovers Masterplan is available to download here.
