SDLP members take tour of leisure centre

SDLP members take tour of leisure centre

18 July 2018

MEMBERS of an SDLP delegation were given a tour of work on Downpatrick’s new multi-million pound leisure centre which is nearing completion ahead of its autumn opening.

South Down MLA Colin McGrath was joined by councillors Gareth Sharvin and Terry Andrews who were accompanied by Newry, Mourne and Down Council director Michael Lipsett.

Cllr Sharvin — who is chairman of the local authority’s Active and Healthy Communities Committee — said he was delighted to be given a sneak preview of the impressive new facility.

The new three-storey building includes two swimming pools, an ultra modern gym featuring 85 pieces of equipment, with the building offering views across the Mournes and towards Downpatrick town centre.

The new leisure complex — which has been described by council officials as a district-wide facility — will also boast spa facilities and a four court sports hall.

“The delivery of the new Down Leisure Centre is a high priority,” said Cllr Sharvin. “The SDLP has been at the forefront of the campaign to build a new leisure facility and the people of Downpatrick and wider Lecale area deserve a leisure centre that is modern and able to compete with the best facilities across Northern Ireland.”

Cllr Andrews said the soon-to-be-opened facility is greatly welcomed and will be a brilliant leisure centre for everyone across Downpatrick, Rowallane and further afield.

Mr McGrath said the SDLP has been working to deliver a new leisure centre in Downpatrick for many years, “often in the face of protest from other parties.”

The MLA added: “We never lost vision of delivering a first class centre in the heart of Downpatrick to help regenerate our county town.”