Ardnabannon to close

Ardnabannon to close

THE Ardnabannon Outdoor Pursuit Centre in Castlewellan is to close. 

The Education Authority has this afternoon decided to close the 100-bed facility and relocate the staff to a smaller facility.

It is understood at the same meeting at decision was taken to downgrade the Seaboard Outdoor Pursuit Centre in Killyleagh to a daytime only facility while Delamont Outdoor Centre is to remain in place.

South Down MLA, Colin McGrath has strongly criticised the decision to close Ardnabannon.

“This is a disgraceful decision that demonstrates that the reorganisation of outdoor education is being done without the interests of young people in mind,” he said.

“Ardnabannon is a first class 100 bed facility with dedicated staff who will now be relocated to a smaller 30 bed facility. It just doesn’t make sense.

“Thousands of people across county Down have fond memories and experiences at Ardnabannon and Killyleagh centres. This decision will come as a shock to those who had positive formative experiences there.

“The evidence from the consultation process was that this decision is not supported. In a political vacuum, I view this as a bad decision.

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“I will be making further representations to the Education Authority on this matter.”