Exciting times for Down GAA

Exciting times for Down GAA

8 October 2025

DOWN GAA’s multi-million pound development in Ballykinlar has taken a significant step forward. 

The county committee has announced the appointment of McAdam Design as the lead team for the Centre of Participation, Wellbeing and Shared Learning Hub at the former army camp.

This appointment represents a major milestone in the delivery of the €15.4 million project, which received the necessary funding from the Special EU Programmes Body’s (SEUPB) Peaceplus Programme last November. 

Developed in conjunction with Co-Operation Ireland and the County Down Rural Community Network (CDRCN), the centre will provide modern facilities, designed to serve both sporting and community needs.

The hub’s plans feature the inclusion of four full-sized pitches, a walking trail, gym, heritage museum and indoor, multi-use games hall.

It will boast dedicated sports training areas, health and wellbeing programmes, education courses and activities, providing a space for people of all ages and backgrounds in the community.

By marrying high-quality sports infrastructure with spaces for cultural and social use, the centre will help foster stronger connections within Ballykinlar and the wider local area, promoting inclusion, participation, and lifelong learning.

That level of inclusivity was one of the key considerations, with Down GAA priding themselves on offering not only football, hurling and camogie, but also handball, Gaelic for Mothers and Others, Gaelic for Lads and Dads, wheelchair hurling and a Fun for All initiative.

A county spokesperson said: “We look forward to drawing upon our extensive sporting experience to deliver the best possible outcome, creating lasting facilities for Down GAA for all present and future users.

“The hub is set to become a landmark facility that promotes healthier lifestyles, expands opportunities for participation in sports and a wide range of activities, and provides a modern, inclusive space where the entire community can come together.”

Bringing McAdam onboard signals the beginning of the design process, moving closer to making the Ballykinlar centre a reality.

McAdam brings a wealth of experience in designing high-quality sports, leisure and community facilities across Ireland and the UK.

It is believed their appointment will offer a creative, functional design that reflects both the ambitions of Down GAA and the needs of the community — something Down chairperson Maureen O’Higgins has full faith in.

“This is an exciting step forward for the Ballykinlar project. With McAdam on board, we are confident the design process will reflect both the ambition of Down GAA and the needs of the local community,” she said.

“This partnership will help ensure the hub delivers real and lasting benefits for Ballykinlar and the wider area.” 

McAdam’s John Herron, echoed that sentiment, expressing his company’s thoughts on being selected to advance the project.

“On behalf of the Integrated Consultant Design Team, McAdam Design are delighted to be appointed to deliver the new Ballykinlar Centre of Participation, Wellbeing and Shared Learning Hub.

“As a practice working across the Island of Ireland, with a strong interest in delivering projects within County Down, we are especially proud to support this landmark redevelopment.”