Council endorses plans for development of Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium and Templemore Sports Comp
9 July 2026
Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Governance and Strategic Planning Committee has approved a series of proposals aimed at supporting the long-term development of the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium and Templemore Sports Complex.
A detailed report came before elected members of the July meeting of the Committee yesterday, providing updates on a number of significant projects, including the potential future sale of the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium and associated facilities, progress on plans for the Templemore Sports Complex site, investment in stadium infrastructure, accessibility improvements and upgrades designed to support the club’s future ambitions both domestically and in European competition.
Elected Members endorsed a recommendation they approve, in principle, the potential sale of the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium, Showgrounds, Anne Street Car Park and Greyhound Track facilities, subject to Council policy requirements, market valuation assessments and extensive stakeholder engagement.
Members stressed that engagement and consultation with all key stakeholders must be integral to any proposals and that any future decision would be considered in accordance with the Council’s Asset Acquisition and Disposal Policy, and would also be subject to all necessary statutory and governance processes.
The report outlined the significant progress to date on the development of lands at Templemore Sports Complex. Following a procurement exercise, details on proposals to appoint a development partner to progress plans for the site, were provided. The development will require ongoing collaboration between the Council, the successful development partner and a range of external agencies as planning and design work advances.
Alongside these strategic developments, the report highlighted a number of planned investments in the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium. A recent condition survey identified the need for a significant programme of seat replacements within the Southend Stand. Building Control has advised that without intervention, stadium capacity could be further affected due to the condition of existing seating. To facilitate this, members agreed to approve a £156,000 replacement programme to ensure supporter safety and protect stadium capacity going forward.
Accessibility improvements also featured strongly within the proposals, including a new Changing Places facility that would provide enhanced facilities for supporters with severe disabilities and ensuring compliance with current building regulations and equality legislation. The specialist fit-out of the facility will require an investment of £48,000 following completion of initial work undertaken by the football club.
The report also detailed plans for a major floodlighting upgrade at the stadium with details of how Derry City FC has proposed investing approximately £200,000 in a new LED floodlighting system to help the venue meet enhanced UEFA standards and support the club's participation in European competition. The club has also committed to meeting the full cost of the installation and the new system is also expected to deliver significant energy efficiency and operational benefits.
Members additionally approved the installation of a new electronic scoreboard at the stadium, again fully funded by Derry City FC., with Council officers continuing to work with the club on any planning or operational requirements associated with the project.
The report also provided details relating to the recently completed hybrid pitch replacement project that is now fully operational, representing another significant investment in the stadium’s future. Members received an update on the North Stand project, where final handover remains subject to completion of certification requirements and a number of outstanding snagging items.
The report is available to read in full here - Brandywell DCFC.pdf
The recommendations agreed at the meeting are subject to ratification at Full Council at the end of July.