McMurray describes decision as ‘incredibly disapponting’

McMurray describes decision as ‘incredibly disapponting’

6 August 2025

SOUTH Down MLAs Andy McMurray and Colin McGrath have been highly critical of the Sport NI decision.

Mr McMurray said the people of Northern Ireland deserve access to high-quality, properly resourced outdoor sporting facilities that make the most of natural resources.

He said news staff will lose their jobs and the Tollymore centre will remain closed for up to one year will come as “incredibly disappointing news” to many in the community, not least the current staff and all those who have been connected to the centre over the years.

Mr McMurray said he was a former trainee at the centre and it was there where he met his wife.

“I share the hurt and frustration many will likely be feeling as a result of Sport NI’s decision at this point,” he said.

“The connection between access to the outdoors and positive physical and mental health is well proven and South Down residents and across Northern Ireland in general, deserve access to high-quality, properly resourced facilities that make the most of the natural environment we’re so lucky to have on our doorstep,” he continued.

“Yet, in recent years, we have had to witness the closing of centre after centre, such as Seaboard in Killyleagh, Ardnabannon in Annsborough and Killowen in Rostrevor. It’s shameful that children are now missing out on experiencing all the benefits of outdoor pursuits at a time when they’re needed more than ever.”

Mr McMurray confirmed he is currently engaging with Sport NI about the need to guarantee the Tollymore centre is made operational and reopened as soon as possible.

And he called on Stormont Communities Minister Gordon Lyons to explore all possible collaborations to ensure the centre can meet the outdoor training needs of not just Northern Ireland, but across the island of Ireland and further afield.

Mr McGrath expressed “serious concern” about the future of the outdoor centre.

“I’ve been pushing Sport NI for clarity on reopening for some time and while I acknowledge the significant running costs involved, the organisation itself has accepted that the centre was never designed to be profit-making but, rather, a vital public resource used by a wide range of groups.”

Mr McGrath said Tollymore was the only facility of its kind on the island of Ireland.

“Its closure would be a major loss to the Newcastle area, not just for the local economy, but for the many individuals and organisations who rely on it.

“The centre plays a unique role in supporting outdoor activity including kayaking, rock climbing and mountain biking and delivers specialist training not available elsewhere and it must remain open.”

Mr McGrath added: “At a time when so much of our community infrastructure is being stripped away, we must do everything we can to protect the resources we have left.”