Mid and East Antrim Borough Council's planning committee approved plans for a full-size 3G football pitch and 176-seat spectator stand at Ballymena Showgrounds. The decision came during a meeting at The Braid in Ballymena on Thursday.

The work upgrades existing grass pitch seven to a 3G surface. It adds four floodlights, a four-metre perimeter fence, 12-metre fences at goal ends, and extra fencing for pitch-side spectators.

A planning officer reported one objection from a nearby property owner. Concerns included noise, lighting, rude language, and general disruption. The officer said rude language remains an issue at current facilities.

DUP Alderman Reuben Glover proposed approval as recommended. Mayor Jackson Minford of the Ulster Unionist Party seconded. Minford raised floodlight hours, and officers confirmed environmental health conditions would apply.

DUP Alderman Paul Reid of Larne Lough noted such issues occur near stadiums and the change alters little from the status quo.

Sinn Féin Councillor Archie Rae of Braid called it a positive step for the showgrounds complex given recent weather trends.

Approval passed by unanimous vote.