The Club has been awarded €200,000 under the Sports Capital Programme 2007 towards the development of the All-Weather pitch and floodlights at the Sancta Maria Complex. Commenting on the Sports Grant, Club Chairman Paddy Walsh said “this is most welcome news and the support will alleviate the financial burden on the club. The Sancta Maria Club Complex is rapidlly taking shape and will be a major asset to the club and the wider community in the years ahead.”
On a related matter, members will recall that planning permission for an additional playing pitch at Sancta Maria was granted by South Dublin County Council in early December 2006 but without the floodlights. An appeal against the decision of the Council to decide to grant permission was lodged by local residents and an appeal against the refusal of the lights was submitted by the Club. The matter is currently before An Bord Pleanála with further observations etc. due by 18 April 2007. The club should have a final decision within 6 months from 23 January 2007.