Right Facility, Wrong Location
We support a national training centre for Northern Ireland football — but NOT on designated countryside and agricultural land with no public transport access.
Led by residents with expert support from
A Panel of Independent Consultants, Including:
Biodiversity and landscaping
Noise and Light
Flooding
Traffic and Infrastructure
Legal
⚠️Urgent - Your voice is needed NOW!
The Irish Football Association (IFA) plans to build a National Football Centre on countryside land at Galgorm, Ballymena. This will bring massive traffic increases to Fenaghy Road — a narrow rural road that cannot cope.
Why This Development Must Be Stopped?
Countryside Violation: Protected countryside and agricultural land will be destroyed, violating the Councils Plan Strategy and SPPS planning protections.
Environmental Destruction: The development will destroy natural habitats supporting diverse wildlife including protected bird species, small mammals, and important pollinator populations. Native hedgerows, mature trees, and established ecosystems that have developed over decades will be lost. The artificial lighting and noise will disrupt wildlife corridors and nocturnal species behaviour patterns.
Zero Public Transport Access: No bus routes, no train links — accessible only by private car, excluding working families and young people without vehicles.
Noise and Light Pollution: Floodlit pitches and the illuminated dome operating into evenings will destroy rural tranquillity. Constant activity from training sessions and matches will fundamentally alter the character of this countryside area.
Elite Facility — Not Community Asset: A luxury training centre for professional players and resort guests. The IFA's 2012 and 2022-2027 strategies promised accessibility and inclusivity — this proposal appears to fail on these promises.
Commercial Development on Protected Land: This represents a commercial partnership between the IFA, the landowner, and the Galgorm Collection seeking to develop cherished countryside for private benefit rather than genuine public good.
Community Impact
Traffic impact on Fenaghy Road
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Save the Community
How You Can Help? Act Now!
⏰ Consultation Deadline 28 November 2025
