Work has begun on the development of a new £10m [€11.7m] Armagh GAA training complex in Portadown.
The multimillion-pound project will be delivered in a phased approach, with a major focus on completing two sand-based floodlit pitches and a state-of-the-art strength and conditioning facility.
This phase will be fully operational by the end of the season, representing an initial investment of £2m [€2.3m].
In the second phase of the project, an additional £2m investment will expand the facility, bringing the total number of pitches to four.
When completed, with the final cost believed to be in the region of £10m, the new complex will host four full-size sand fibre grass training pitches.
Full floodlighting, fencing and catch nets will complement a sports pavilion with four sets of changing rooms, a multi-purpose hall, meeting rooms, office accommodation and treatment/physio rooms.
Along with a strength and conditioning performance hub, the inclusion of a sports dome 3G pitch and inflatable bubble for all-weather training will ensure the venue remains fully operational during times of harsh weather.
A ball wall, spectator stand and terrace area will be included as well as a parking area.
The new centre will replace the out-dated training grounds at Callanbridge in Armagh city and will be situated at St Malachy's in Portadown. Orchard legend Jimmy Smyth, who captained the county to the 1977 All-Ireland final, turned the first sod.
"Our limited training facilities are in need of a transformative boost to propel us into a new era of excellence," Armagh county board chairman Paul McArdle said.
"The critical need for additional pitches and future investment is paramount as well as sustaining the legacy of our existing facilities. To ensure the successful delivery of vital facilities to cater for all our county teams and development squads, we are embarking on a new fundraising initiative.
"This initiative is more than a campaign; it is a call to action."
The county’s fundraising initiative 'Momentum Armagh’ will invite county supporters to give their backing to the scheme by signing up for one of four packages on offer – silver, gold, platinum and diamond.
Planning application for the development was submitted to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in February 2020 and approval was granted in June 2022.
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