Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has announced that the newly refurbished Monkstown 3G Training Pitch at Cloyne Crescent Newtownabbey is match ready.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Mark Cooper BEM, proudly revealed the new pitch alongside members of the local club, 18th Newtownabbey. This pitch, funded by the Council, provides an excellent opportunity for local residents to participate in sports and physical activities.

Later this summer, the facility will be one of five pitches across the Borough to host the SuperCupNI Girls' Tournament, which will include premier league teams Manchester United, Wolverhampton and Aston Villa.

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Speaking at the opening of the new 3G pitch the Mayor stated: "I am incredibly proud to officially open this 3G training pitch; it will be a welcoming, safe and vibrant place for the local residents and visitors. This investment showcases the Council’s commitment to developing sport at the heart of the community, benefitting sporting clubs, groups and schools for many years to come. The timing of the opening couldn’t be better as the Council prepares to host the SuperCupNI Girls Tournament bringing top young female football teams from around the world to compete in the tournament as well as many visitors to the Borough."

The training pitch upgrade includes the transformation of the original grass training pitch to a new state-of-the-art 3G playing surface, complete with floodlights and 'ball stop' fencing, making the space more accessible for sports activities year-round.