Major development plan to cater for future of Annaghdown clubs

Range of facilities planned

ANNAGHDOWN GAA, LGFA and Camogie Club have launched an ambitious multi-phase development plan for its home grounds at Cregg.

In a bid to cater for the growing participation levels in the region and secure the future of Gaelic games and community facilities in the parish for generations to come, they are set to transform and revamp their facilities.

The first phase of the development has already been completed with the purchase of 13 acres of land adjacent to the club’s existing grounds at Cregg for €250,000.

The land will be used for the construction of two new full-sized grass pitches, a clubhouse extension, an indoor all-weather training arena and extending the existing back pitch to full size. The lands will also cater for the development of a future floodlit all-weather pitch.

Among the other planned developments are additional parking facilities and community walkway extensions, a playground, sensory area, and inclusive community spaces, as well as the surfacing of all car parking facilities at Cregg.

When completed, the project is expected to increase summer pitch capacity from 100 hours to 260 hours per week and winter capacity from 40 hours to 120 hours per week, ensuring facilities can meet the needs of current and future generations of players.

“For generations, our club has been at the heart of the community, bringing people together through sport, friendship, and shared pride,” stated Annaghdown GAA Chairperson JJ Sheil.

“This development is an important investment in our future. It will improve our facilities, support growing participation, and create opportunities for current and future generations of our parish to enjoy.”

To progress the project, Annaghdown GAA has launched a significant fundraising campaign with an immediate target of €450,000. This will be used to repay loans associated with the land purchase and fund the development works, which are estimated to cost a further €200,000.

Seeking support

The club is inviting support from local businesses, families, former members, and the wider community through a range of sponsorship and donor programs.

Corporate supporters can participate through the Cairde Anach Cuain sponsorship scheme, which includes naming rights opportunities for pitches, premium signage, website recognition, and permanent acknowledgement within the club grounds.

Annaghdown GAA are also looking to meet the costs of the project through a Sports Capital Grant application in late 2026, and a community Walkathon that they hope will raise between €100,000–€150,000.

The club have another major fundraising campaign in the works for 2027 with the target of generating €200,000, while a “Win a Home” fundraiser in 2028 could bring in between €500,000 and €750,000.

“With the support of our members, local businesses, and the wider community, we can strengthen our club for years to come,” added the Annaghdown GAA chairperson. Founded in 1887, Annaghdown GAA has been at the centre of community life for almost 140 years. They have 74 teams participating across football, hurling, ladies’ football and camogie, leaving the club facing unprecedented demand for training and playing facilities.