Showgrounds open 'as usual' for Coleraine v Crues

Coleraine's home ground is the Showgrounds on Ballycastle Road

Irish Premiership side Coleraine are at risk of having their stadium closed, although the club has said the Showgrounds will be open "as normal" for Sunday's game against Crusaders.

Causeway Coast and Glens Council is preparing to issue legal proceedings and shut down the stands and social club facilities at the club's home ground on Ballycastle Road.

In a letter seen by BBC Sport NI, the council say that the club have failed to provide a structural integrity report since June 2022, which is a requirement under the terms of their safety certificate issued by the council.

BBC Sport NI has also been told that the council has written to the club, and engaged in person, but every deadline to achieve compliance has not been met.

Without a structural appraisal the council say they cannot be satisfied the stadium is structurally safe, and are considering instigating legal proceedings.

In response Coleraine FC said in a statement that they take such matters "very seriously".

"We acknowledge the recent article published by the BBC regarding the structural appraisal involving our organisation.

"Coleraine takes matters of structural integrity and public safety very seriously. We can confirm that we remain in dialogue with Causeway Coast & Glens Council to ensure compliance with all relevant safety standards and the Showgrounds remains open as usual.

"The club looks forward to welcoming fans to The Showgrounds this Sunday as normal."