PLANS to improve a Llangefni rugby club’s building and facilities to enhance the “overall experience” for members, players, and visitors have been agreed.
Anglesey County Council planners have approved with conditions, a full application for alterations and extensions, together with the erection of a storage shed, at Llangefni Rugby Club.
The submission was made by the club through the agent Russell Hughes Cyf. The proposal says improving the character of the rugby club and creating a community hub is “the main focus” of the development.
It aims to “enhance the overall experience for members, players, and visitors, while strengthening the club’s identity and culture”.
The application describes the clubhouse extension and alterations creating “a contemporary modern community hub for visitors”.
The plans also includes “a high quality spectators area” overlooking the current pitch.
Associated external works will include soft landscaping, biodiversity enhancements and improved thermal and environmental performance and the erection of a storage building for maintenance equipment.
The improvements, the plans say aim to focus on the “look, feel, and atmosphere of the clubhouse”.
It will include a mural or framed time line showing the club’s founding, victories, and legendary players, display of jerseys, team photos, and news clippings. Memorabilia displays would include trophy cabinets, signed balls, vintage kits, and player awards and a rotating display.
Themed décor would see use of club colours throughout, rugby-themed furniture, such as converted scrum benches or bar stools made from goal posts, murals or graffiti art from local artists showing iconic moments.
The existing building, thought to be built several decades ago, is of “traditional construction and modest in scale but exhibits clear signs that modernisation in line with current club activities and future projects is required,” plans say.
Among the developments it is proposed to extend the club house and improve the current amenities by creating a new ground and first floor extension to the building.
Improvements and enhancements “will include a modern gym/weight room, better changing rooms facilities, and player welfare,” it says.
Whilst the first floor extensions consist of “improving the function room of the club and creating a spectators viewing gallery overlooking the playing field”.
The plans say the larger club could mean being able host more community events, school partnerships, and open days.
This could “help encourage youth participation and reduce anti-social behaviour by providing a positive outlet, as well as financial sustainability.
It added: “A bigger club often attracts more sponsors and larger grants and increased membership brings in higher revenue from dues, merchandise, and match-day sales”.
The changes will also mean it will be able to host larger events “due to expanded facilities making it possible to host tournaments, regional matches, or even semi-pro games”.
“These events attract visitors, boosting the local economy (food, hospitality, etc.)”, they added.
The larger space and more programmes, could mean “more inclusion of women, children, and people with disabilities” and offer options beyond playing, such as coaching, refereeing, volunteering, or social groups”.
