Coleraine’s Showgrounds to Operate “As Normal” Amid Council Closure Threat

Irish Premiership team Coleraine, whose home venue is the Showgrounds on Ballycastle Road, faces a potential stadium closure. However, the club has stated that the Showgrounds will operate “as normal” for the upcoming Sunday match against Crusaders. Causeway Coast and Glens Council is reportedly preparing to initiate legal action and close the stands and social club amenities at the Ballycastle Road venue. According to a letter reviewed by BBC Sport NI, the council asserts that the club has not submitted a structural integrity report since June 2022. This report is a mandatory condition stipulated in their safety certificate, which was issued by the council. BBC Sport NI has also learned that the council communicated with the club in writing and through in-person discussions, but all established deadlines for achieving compliance have passed unfulfilled. The council indicates that without a structural appraisal, they cannot confirm the stadium’s structural safety, and are therefore contemplating initiating legal proceedings. In response, Coleraine FC issued a statement affirming that they regard such issues “very seriously”. “We acknowledge the recent article published by the BBC regarding the structural appraisal involving our organisation.” “Coleraine takes matters of structural integrity and public safety very seriously. We can confirm that we remain in dialogue with Causeway Coast & Glens Council to ensure compliance with all relevant safety standards and the Showgrounds remains open as usual.” “The club looks forward to welcoming fans to The Showgrounds this Sunday as normal.”