Speaking after consent was secured from Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Council, the DUP representative said:

“I am delighted that planning approval has been granted for Banbridge Rugby Club for the extension of their pavilion and function room. I have been working closely with the Club to help get this approval granted. It has been a long and sometimes frustrating process but I am very pleased that we have reached this key staging post on the pathway to making this vision a reality.

The application includes permission to extend the existing pavilion to provide new changing rooms, showers, toilets and gym to provide additional facilities for ladies rugby. This is a fantastic boost for the ladies game in the locality and will add to the offering at this progressive club within the community.

Banbridge Rugby Club is enjoying success on the field, and with the ongoing development of the club off the field, we can see a bright future ahead for the Club. I will continue to support the Club to progress and look forward to these works commencing in due course.”