Largs Thistle FC have been granted permission to extend their floodlight hours at Barrfields Stadium, clearing the way for a potential live television broadcast of their Scottish Gas Scottish Cup tie against Ayr United on Friday, November 27.
At the North Ayrshire Planning Committee on Wednesday, elected members backed planning officers' recommendations to allow the lights to be used until 10pm on two calendar days per month. The decision takes immediate effect.
Planning approval details
The club sought to amend conditions attached to development at Barrfields Stadium. The original permission limited pitch use to between 8am and 9pm from Mondays to Saturdays, with floodlights permitted only during those hours. The new application proposed extending the time limit to 10pm.
Having secured an SFA License and progressed to the Lowland League West, the club has scheduled evening fixtures expected to kick off at 7.45pm, making the extended hours necessary.
Objections and support
Eleven objections were received, with concerns that the lights would be visible from and illuminate nearby gardens, and that elderly neighbours could see them and worry about effects on wildlife. The Scottish Football Association supported the application, as did Largs Community Council, which asked for approval.
The club indicated it would accept permission restricting use to two nights per month during the football season. So far this season, they have played four midweek matches, including one away from home, with two more scheduled—one at home and one away. Most cup competitions are scheduled for Saturdays but can be moved to weeknights for various reasons.
Committee decision
Committee chair Robert Foster said: “I think this is a perfectly reasonable application and I am happy to approve it subject to conditions.” The motion was seconded by North Coast councillor Ian Murdoch and unanimously agreed.
Planning Committee member and Tory Leader Cameron Inglis said after the meeting: “This decision is not just because of the Ayr United match but it coincides with what is a huge game for Largs. They have been looking for an extension for a long time.”
“Largs having the chance to host a big game in their own stadium against a bigger team like Ayr United – we always want to support these things. As a North Ayrshireman I’m hoping Largs can cause an upset. You never know what can happen. Look at how Darvel turned over Aberdeen a couple of years ago.”
