Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council planning committee approved its application for a new shared 4G pitch at Carryduff Primary School. The council committed £470,000 and Choice Housing £230,000 toward the project.

Councillor Brian Higginson stated the approval advances the facility for pupils, sports clubs and the Carryduff community. He noted the pitch will support sport participation and active lifestyles. Higginson and Stormont Assembly speaker Edwin Poots lobbied for the project after the death of MLA Christopher Stalford in February 2022.

Killynure Community Association will manage the pitch during evenings. Association chairperson Aaron Thompson thanked the council, Choice Housing, Carryduff Primary School, Education Authority and local representatives for their backing.

Carryduff Primary School indicated the new surface will make the pitch usable year-round, replacing the waterlogged grass field.