Mullingar Shamrocks apply for planning for three all weather pitches

Mullingar Shamrocks have applied for planning permission for three all weather pitches as part of their ambitious expansion plans.

The application to Westmeath County Council also includes details for the installation of associated flood lighting, ball stop nets and dug outs, as well as a new walking track with flood lighting. Permission is also being sought for a new entrance from the Robinstown Road.

Last December the club announced that it had signed a contract to purchase 20 acres of land in Robinstown from Kevin and Helen Lynch.

Speaking after the announcement, chairman David Nohilly said that acquiring the land secures the club's future in the Springfield-Robinstown area.

“We will be developing right across the river Brosna and linking Springfield and Robinstown, with a new entrance on the Robinstown side. It ensures the future of the club in its current location. We have been land-locked for so many years and this development will be of huge benefit to our players, members and all the families connected to the club, and to those who are joining us each year,” he said.

In a post on social media last week, the club revealed that its committee had raised over €250,000 of the €500,000 needed for the new development. The club also asked members who hadn't yet put their hands in their pockets to show their support for the club by making a donation.

“At the time of writing just over €250,000 has been donated in an amazing show of confidence and generosity by members past and present, supporters, and those who believe in what we are doing for the community of Mullingar. Generous donations have been sourced and contributed from home and abroad.

“Incredibly, just 115 individuals and some corporate donations have contributed this sum.

“Apart from sourcing finance, our committee has also negotiated a loan facility that ensures we will meet our commitment on 30 November. However, this finance comes at a significant interest rate of close to 7 per cent and will be expensive over the years of repayment. The GAA at county management level has approved this facility.

“There is no real reason why we cannot raise the remaining €250, 000 over the next month if just 115 people have already donated, a similar amount. So we ask if you have yet to make your donation to consider doing so now or over the next few weeks. In addition, do not forget to sign in to the Revenue’s Tax Relief Scheme for Donations to an Approved Sports Body if you are a PAYE payer. In this way, your contribution becomes much more valuable (up to 40%).

“There is also an opportunity for businesses to join the Corporate Donation Scheme that is available at three levels: Gold Sponsorship - €20,000; Silver Sponsorship - €12,000; Bronze Sponsorship - €10,000. Any business contributions are of course tax deductible.

“Let’s make it to the €500, 000 in personal and Mullingar Chamber business donations.”