from Finn Valley AC Finn Valley AC have been boosted today Tuesday by the announcement by An Tanaiste Mary Coughlan T.D. that the contract documents for a swimming pool at their existing sports centre have been approved . Approval means that tender documents can now be prepared. Tender and construction is the last of the four phases with a feasibility study, preliminary report and contract documents all having been carried out. This is timely as the acquisition of an additional four acres adjoining the club grounds is also underway bringing the total site to fifteen acres, an extensive development by the athletic club which currently employs ten full time workers. Finn Valley AC in addition to their core athletic activities provide an array of community activities to include boxing, gymnastics, soccer, Irish dancing, recreation soccer for adults, Gaelic football, aerobics, pilates, etc.
THe physical facilities currently on site having being developed from an old disused factory purchased by the club in the early eighties are Multi purpose hall, four floodlighted astro real grass pitches, leisure gym with seperate membership, bar/social area , aerobics area ,400m track floodlighted infield /track to standard league of Ireland specification, dining area, ten office/admin areas currently leased by HSE.
Club chairman Patsy Mc Gonagle welcomed the announcement “adding that in addition to providing a valuable addition to the existing sports and recreation facilities there will be a spin off in terms of local employment. Its an continuing example of an athletic club catering for the wider community ,leading the way”.
Approval of the contract documents, submitted to the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism by Donegal County Council, means that tender documents can now be prepared.
An Tanaiste Mary Coughlan T.D. – “This is the culmination of a great deal of effort on the part of the local community, Donegal County Council staff and county councillors, Alice Bonner, Patrick McGowan and Gerry Crawford to mention but a few. This facility will be a wonderful addition to the infrastructure of the twin towns. In spite of the difficult economic circumstances in which we find ourselves, I’m absolutely delighted to see that this project will be realised.
“In addition to providing a valuable sports and recreation facility, there will also be a spin-off in terms of local employment beginning as soon as the sod is turned on this development,” stated An Tánaiste.
Tender and construction is the last of the four phases with a feasibility study, preliminary report and contract documents all having been carried out. Some 57 applications have been made under the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme between 2000 and 2008.
The club founded 1971 has continually been the focus for Donegal/Ulster athletic activities and will host the national half marathon in September, an annual Stephens day 5k recently attracted 645 entries .