Boost for Finn Harps as government allocate almost €4 million for new stadium

Finn Harps have been allocated almost €4 million in funding to help build their new stadium.

Catherine Martin, the Minister for Sport, made the announcement tonight and the long-awaited project is finally set to start.

A provisional allocation of €3.991m will go to the FAI under the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) for the development of the Stranorlar venue.

The new site is less than a kilometre from Harps current ground in Ballybofey.

Planning permission for the new stadium was originally granted in 2007 but construction hit various setbacks and ground to a halt during the recession.

Minister Martin said: “This is excellent news for the FAI, Finn Harps Football Club and the football community in Donegal.

“The Government is committed to investing in our sport infrastructure.

“We have ambitious plans to enhance investment in the LSSIF and the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme in the years ahead. “

And Minister of State Jack Chambers stated “I’m very aware of the need to see real investment in the League of Ireland and the Government will play its part in this regard.

“The new Finn Harps Stadium will be a significant boost for the League of Ireland and I wish the FAI and the club every success with the project.”