Nolan calls for review of Midlands Schoolboy/girl League planning refusal

Independent TD for Offaly Carol Nolan has offered her strong support to the Midlands Schoolboys/Girls League following Offaly County Council's refusal of planning permission for a proposed €5million underage soccer centre of excellence on a site between Clara and Tubber.

The proposed development, which included four playing pitches, a state-of-the-art facilities building, and ample parking, was refused on grounds that it would create an undesirable precedent for unsustainable rural development, negatively impact the area's character, and pose traffic hazards on the local road network.

"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.

“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 agreement on meeting what is a clearly defined level of need for the League.”

Highlighting the League's significant sporting contributions, Deputy Nolan stated that it had been instrumental in nurturing major female talent at both local and national levels.

"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," the Deputy added.

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.

"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 League in their efforts to achieve a positive reassessment because we need a swift reconsideration to allow this important development to move forward," the Deputy concluded.