Castleview and the AUL outline plans and schedule for their two new all-weather pitches

Castleview AFC, along with the Cork AUL and the Cork City Council will build two new all-weather pitches on O'Sullivan Park thanks to funding secured this week.

They have just been awarded a significant grant of one million euros for the project through the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund and hope to start work at the end of April.

The work includes seeing the senior pitch upgraded to a FIFA approved astroturf with new LED lighting.  The junior pitch will also transition into a FIFA approved astroturf with LED lighting.

There will be a redevelopment of the main carpark plus a new overflow area near the junior pitch.  

A dedicated viewing area along the senior pitch will be developed to allow spectators view games on both pitches. 

The project is in partnership with the Cork AUL and the Cork City Council and was overseen by Padraig O'Sullivan, TD.

They hope to build both pitches together, however, they will be meeting Owen Hourihan from Hourihan Sports Field Development and Civil contractors in the coming weeks to put a plan together and hope to have the facility ready for the new season next August.

Rodney Power, who was one of the men who has spearheaded the project for his club Castleview, along with members of the Cork AUL is very excited about this new venture for the northside of the City.

“We at Castleview AFC in collaboration with the Cork Athletic Union League recognise the need for a comprehensive all weather facility that caters to the diverse needs for our members, the league, and the wider community,” Rodney said.

“In pursuit of this vision, we propose the development of an all-weather campus (of two pitches) that will not only enhance the capabilities of our club and league; but also serve as a hub for community engagement, including children with additional needs and local schools. 

"Such facilities have been identified as a priority by Cork City Council and the proposed facility has been identified as a necessary to develop active participation, social participation and high performance in the Northside of Cork City.

“The proposed facility will also cater for a number of sports and be multi-functional in nature, meet the needs of a mixed group of clubs and associations and prioritise the needs of disadvantaged areas and groups, including groups with disabilities.

“The Cork City Council is the sponsor of this application, and Castleview AFC is the lead applicant and we aim to provide a versatile space for a year-round training and matches for our club teams, to improve high performance opportunities in sports and facilities that meet the requirements of the league for hosting games tournaments.

“We all want to create an inclusive environment that accommodates individuals with additional needs, promoting diversity and accessibility, and increasing their active participation in sport.

“The proposed all-weather facility will yield numerous benefits our club the Cork AUL and the wider community, which will enhance training and playing opportunities with players having access to consistent training sessions and competitive matches, leading to improved performance and skill development.

“The facility will attract more participants from the local community, including individuals with additional needs, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion.

"The facility will also contribute to the local economy by attracting visitors for tournaments, events, and other activities, thereby boosting revenue for local businesses.

“We plan partnerships with local schools that will create opportunities for sports education programs, promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles among youth. 

"We hope the facility will serve as a gathering place for people of all ages and backgrounds, promoting social cohesion and community pride,” Rodney added.