Sports pitch fencing at Existing soccer pitch at Falls Park (approx. 50m east of No. 47 Norglen Drive), Falls Road, Belfast

“Development Management Report Committee Date: 20 th January 2026 Application ID: LA04/2025/1693/F Proposal: Spectator fencing around pitch perimeter (1.2m high), 2 no. ballstop systems (20m x 6m high), and spectator hardstanding. Location: Existing soccer pitch at Falls Park (approx. 50m east of No.”

“The application seeks planning permission for spectator fencing around the pitch permitter and 2 ballstop systems measuring 20m in length and 6m in height.”

“The site is located at Falls Park which is a Council Site. The pitch in question is located in the south west of the park to the rear of the Whiterock Leisure Centre and the Belfast City Cemetery. The site is accessed from the Whiterock Road or the Falls Road. To the west of the site are a number of residential properties along Norglen Road. There are a number of mature trees around the periphery of the site.”

“The proposal retains the use as existing open space and supports the continued use as a soccer pitch as per Policy OS1. The proposed spectator fencing and proposed ballstops support the continued use of the site as an intensive sports facility under…”

“The proposal is incidental to an existing use within an area of open space and will have no adverse effect on the sporting potential of the facility. The proposal will assist with the overall functioning and recreational use of the sports grounds. The proposed fencing and ballstop nets (6m in height and 20m in length) are considered appropriate for the use of the playing pitches where they are to be located.”

“Due to the nature and location of the proposal, no consultations were deemed necessary.”

“The application has been advertised and neighbour notified, no representations were received.”

“The Senior Planning Officer provided the Committee with an overview of the application and highlighted the following key issues for consideration:”

“Principle of development; • Impact on amenity; and • Impact on the character and appearance of the area.”

“He stated that, having regard to the Development Plan, relevant planning policies and other material considerations, it was recommended that the proposal be approved.”

“The Committee granted planning permission, subject to conditions and delegated authority to the Director of Planning and Building Control to finalise the wording of the conditions and to deal with any other issues that might arise, provided that they were not substantive.”