Driving Progress in Local Rugby Clubs
While work varies from club to club, the core aims of the investments being made at each site remain the same: To improve access and inclusion, enhance sustainability, and future proof rugby club facilities across the province.
Among the key improvements being delivered are:
Changing Room Extensions & Renovations, with a particular focus on providing better access and inclusion for female players and individuals with disabilities.
Energy-Efficient Floodlighting to enhance evening training and match opportunities while reducing environmental impact.
Sustainable Clubhouse Improvements focusing on energy efficiency to ensure clubhouses are cost-effective to operate and clubs are taking positive actions with regard to environmental responsibilities.
Club Spotlight: Projects in Action
As the Club Capital Improvement Project progresses, several clubs are already seeing the benefits of their upgrades. Below, we take a closer look at a few of the projects that are making a difference for their clubs and communities.
Clogher Valley RFC – A New Community Hub
Clogher Valley RFC has successfully completed their ambitious project to create a brand-new 'Community Hub' building at their site, The Cran, outside Fivemiletown. This modern facility is now a focal point for pre- and post-match activity, while also serving as a versatile space for various community events, activities and functions. The development strengthens the Club’s role at the heart of the local community, providing a welcoming and dynamic environment for players and residents alike.
Bob Beatty, Project Lead at Clogher Valley RFC, highlighted the impact of the new space:
“The new building was always intended to be a place for the entire community, not just the club. We’ve gone from having no social space for visiting youth teams to creating a welcoming environment that’s used weekly for a wide range of community activities. It has transformed engagement—our match attendance has probably tripled, and our pre-match lunches have seen a rise in attendance aswell. This is about more than just rugby; it’s about sustainability and bringing people together.”
Ards RFC – Upgrading Floodlighting for a Brighter Future
Ards RFC has taken a significant step forward in sustainability and training accessibility by replacing their outdated and inefficient floodlighting with state-of-the-art LED systems on their
main pitch. In addition, enhancements to the lighting in their training area ensures that players can train safely and effectively throughout the year. These improvements not only reduce energy consumption but also provide a vastly improved playing and training experience for all levels of the club, including the scheduling of evening games.
Managing the project for the Club, Mike Spence reflected on the difference the new lighting has made:
“The impact has been huge, as we’ve effectively been able to completely replace old, failing lighting. Now, training sessions are brighter and safer, and players at all levels are benefiting from better visibility and a more professional playing environment. The upgrades should also help reduce our energy costs significantly, which is a major boost for the club’s long-term sustainability, while also reflecting our commitment to going green. We’ve also been able to schedule weekday games, including women’s and girls fixtures, as well as ‘Friday Night Lights’ which have not only helped ease fixture congestion, but also helped attract people to the club at times when it’s otherwise quiet.”
Lisburn RFC – Construction Underway for Inclusive Facilities
Lisburn RFC is currently in the construction phase of an exciting development to extend their clubhouse. This project will introduce dedicated female changing facilities, ensuring inclusivity and encouraging greater participation in the sport. Additionally, the club is creating a well-being suite, further enhancing the health and fitness opportunities available to players, members and the wider community. These improvements mark a major step forward in Lisburn RFC’s mission to provide modern and accessible facilities for all.
Stephen Knowles, Fundraising Officer from Lisburn RFC outlined the anticipated impact of the project:
“Once completed, these new facilities will be a game-changer for the club. The addition of dedicated female changing rooms will allow us to expand provision for women’s and girls’ teams, while the well-being suite will enable us to provide year-round fitness opportunities for all members as well as programmes for the community. This investment is about building a stronger, more inclusive, and healthier future for everyone involved in Lisburn RFC.”
Looking Ahead: Building a Lasting Legacy
With some clubs already benefiting from completed upgrades, some commencing construction and others ready to appoint contractors, the project is now making steady progress. As work continues towards the March 2026 completion, Ulster Rugby remains committed to ensuring every club maximises the benefits of their investment.
Beyond infrastructure, this initiative is about strengthening grassroots rugby, creating inclusive, sustainable, and high-quality facilities that will serve as hubs for community sport for years to come. With continued momentum, this project will leave a lasting legacy, growing the game and making rugby more accessible to all.
Stay tuned for more updates and success stories as the project moves forward.