Offaly TD calls for urgent review of planning refusal for major soccer project in Midlands

Independent TD for Offaly Carol Nolan has offered her support to the Midlands Schoolboys/Girls League after Offaly County Council's refused planning permission for a proposed €5 million underage soccer centre of excellence.

The proposed development, located on a site between Clara and Tubber, included four playing pitches, a state-of-the-art building with an array of facilities and ample parking.

The council refused permission on the grounds that the development would create an undesirable precedent for unsustainable rural development, negatively impact the area's character, and pose traffic hazards on the local road network.

Speaking on the council's decision, Deputy Nolan stated: "While Offaly County Council is fully entitled to put forward their view on this planning application, locals and locally elected representatives such as myself are equally entitled to question it and to call for an immediate reassessment."

She continued: "This project represents a vital investment in our community's youth, and that is why the decision merits a thorough review. Every avenue must and will be exhausted to see if we can reach an agreement on meeting what is a clearly defined level of need for the league."

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Carol Nolan TD highlighted the league's significant sporting contributions. 

"The Midlands Schoolboys/Girls League has been instrumental in nurturing major female talent at both local and national levels."

She also stressed the negative impact the decision may have on people getting involved in sport.

"At a time when we are actively trying to get more girls interested in sports and physical activity, refusing this centre does not send the right message.

However unintentionally, the planning refusal actively undermines such efforts and discourages participation among young people who could benefit enormously from such facilities."

In this context, Deputy Nolan also pointed to the broader community benefits, noting that the league serves approximately 7,000 boys and girls annually and spends €65,000 on pitch rentals alone.

She concluded: "This centre would provide a dedicated space for training, matches, and community events, reducing costs and enhancing access to sport in Offaly and the wider midland region.

I will certainly stand with the Midlands Schoolboys/Girls League in their efforts to achieve a positive reassessment because we need a swift reconsideration to allow this important development to move forward."