Glentoran Football Club is delighted to confirm that Belfast City Council has granted planning permission for the proposed redevelopment of the BetMcLean Oval.

The planning approval represents an important step forward in the Club’s long-term ambition to redevelop The BetMcLean Oval into a modern, multi-purpose stadium that will not only benefit the Club and its supporters, but also the wider community and football across Northern Ireland.

Subject to securing investment through the Northern Ireland Football Fund, the approved plans would see the demolition of the existing Grandstand and Railway Stand, to be replaced by two modern, all-seater stands, along with the reconfiguration of terracing at both ends of the ground.

A redeveloped BetMcLean Oval would deliver significantly upgraded facilities for up to 6,000 spectators, supporting Glentoran’s senior men’s and women’s teams and their supporters, as well as the Club’s boys’ and girls’ Academy squads and Inclusion teams, while also expanding access for wider community use.

Ali Pour, owner of Glentoran Football Club said: “Securing planning approval is a major step forward in our plans to redevelop the BetMcLean Oval into a modern, multi-purpose stadium that every Glentoran fan can be proud of and one that has the potential to become Northern Ireland football’s second stadium.

“This project reflects my long-term commitment not just to Glentoran, but to the regeneration of east Belfast and the growth of the game across Northern Ireland. It’s a bold, forward-looking vision that combines top-level football facilities with real social and economic impact.”

Colin Jess, Chairman of Glentoran Football Club, said: “Securing planning approval is a proud and symbolic moment for everyone connected with Glentoran. It has been years in the making and is the result of tireless work behind the scenes.

“At the heart of this proposed redevelopment of The BetMcLean Oval is a commitment to delivering something that serves our community, honours our heritage and creates lasting value for east Belfast.

“We’re determined to bring our supporters and local residents with us on the next stage of this journey and to ensure that the stadium we build truly meets the needs of everyone involved.”

Paul Millar, Sporting Director of Glentoran FC, said: ““A redeveloped BetMcLean Oval would provide the infrastructure our senior men’s and women’s teams, Academy players and coaching staff need to thrive, while also creating new opportunities for youth development and wider community participation. It’s a game-changing project for Glentoran and for football in Northern Ireland.

“Having worked closely on the planning application, I know just how much this decision means to everyone involved. It reinforces the strength of our submission to the NI Football Fund and underlines the serious intent behind our plans to deliver a modern stadium that meets the needs of players, supporters and the east Belfast community.”

“A huge number of people have played a part in reaching this stage and while it’s not possible to name everyone, I want to sincerely thank all those who have contributed their time, expertise and support to help bring this project forward.”

Glentoran has submitted a robust application to the Northern Ireland Football Fund and is currently awaiting the outcome of the funding process. The submission clearly sets out the Club’s need for investment and highlights the significant social, sporting and economic benefits the proposed redevelopment would bring to the local community and the wider game.