Council invests in local sport through Grassroots Improvement Fund
Thursday 7 August 2025
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has reaffirmed its commitment to developing local sports having invested over £400,000 through the Amateur and Grassroots Sporting Organisations Improvement Fund, which has already supported twelve clubs to further enhance community sport provision.
The Amateur and Grassroots Sporting Organisations Improvement Fund offered grants of between £10,000 and £50,000, covering up to 50% of capital project costs.
The Fund aimed to enhance and extend the life and value of sports facilities while promoting increased participation, improved user experience, and stronger performance development.
The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said:
“Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is delighted to have provided capital grant support to local sporting organisations to assist their growth and development.
“These investments help nurture talent, build stronger communities, and promote healthier lifestyles across the Borough.”
Some local sports clubs in the Larne area, who have benefitted from the funding, recently met with the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim; including representatives from Larne Cricket Club, Larne Bowling and Lawn Tennis Club, and St John’s Camogie Club, Carnlough.
Eamon McFadden of St John’s Camogie Club, commented:
“The £50,000 grant from the Council supported essential drainage work on our local pitch.
“It has opened up new opportunities for the club to grow and develop, creating a real buzz within the local community.”
The Council remains committed to working in partnership with local clubs to enhance sports provision at all levels and ensure facilities continue to meet the needs of future generations.
Larne Cricket Club received funding towards a new hybrid pitch and score board to elevate the standard of matches hosted by the club.
The new additions to their facilities saw them host the Celtic Cup Under-19 match where Ireland came out on top against Scotland at the end of July with a 2-1 series win. This marked a significant milestone in facilitating International Cricket opportunities locally and paved the way for further high profile matches in the future.