Residents of Kesh have collected almost 500 signatures on a petition demanding that Fermanagh and Omagh District Council abandon plans to dispose of Mantlin Playing Fields. The signatures were presented to Councillor David Mahon, who brought the petition to the council. The council is due to reconsider the disposal decision at its Environmental Services Committee meeting next month.

An earlier council decision to deem the playing fields surplus and proceed with disposal was proposed by Sinn Féin councillors. Details disclosed at a recent meeting show that the original motion came from Councillor Catherine Kelly, seconded by Councillor Padrigene Kelly, and was agreed unanimously across the chamber. Later motions to move forward with expressions of interest and discussions with a community organisation were also passed without opposition, involving councillors from multiple parties.

That decision was subsequently called in, leading to a deferral and further review. The matter was referred back for discussion at the forthcoming committee meeting.

Kesh Development Association (KDA) has taken a formal stance against the sale. A 16-strong committee was formed to campaign for the fields’ retention, and the group sent a letter to the council. The letter raised issues including the loss of green space and recreational facilities, the environmental impact of additional housing, and pressure on the local sewage system. It stated that there was a unanimous view among KDA members that the playing fields should remain in public ownership for community use.

At a council meeting, members agreed to write to KDA proposing a meeting to discuss the future of the site. Alliance Councillor Eddie Roofe suggested the approach, noting resident enthusiasm for improving the facility. It was seconded by SDLP Councillor Adam Gannon, who said a meeting could help find a way forward.

Councillor Mahon, who received the petition, said he will urge the council to overturn the disposal decision when the committee meets. He stated that the response from the community shows the strength of feeling and that the fields have been a valuable asset for generations.