Saintfield leisure centre takes huge step forward

Saintfield leisure centre takes huge step forward

11 September 2013

THE design team which will oversee the development of Saintfield’s new £4m community and leisure centre is expected to be appointed by the end of next month.

The team — which comprises architects and consultants — will work closely with the Saintfield Development Association and a range of community and sports groups across the town to come up with the agreed design.

Several weeks ago, Down Council completed the sale of a former warehouse at the Belfast Road where the new multi-million pound centre will be developed.

Saintfield Development Association chairman, Martyn Todd, said the purchase of the site centre follows years of discussion and negotiation for various sites.

Writing in the latest edition of Saintfield News, he said the advantage of the Belfast Road site is its proximity to Saintfield High School. He said a number of additional buildings on the site can be converted to new use.

Mr. Todd said the next step in the development process will be the formation of the project team which will also include representatives from the community group, Saintfield Sports Club and schools in the Saintfield area.

He continued: “The first task will be to consult with all interested community groups and residents to ensure the facilities in the new centre and its surrounds will offer the widest range of activities for the greatest number of people of all ages. It is planned to have a week of consultations, similar to those held last year for the village plan.”

Mr. Todd said the community group has been given the use of a shop in Saintfield Main Street and explained a questionnaire will be available outlining various options.

Saintfield Association treasurer, Mr. Lawrence Murphy, said the partnership approach in developing the new community leisure centre ensures funds will be released from both central and local government so the final construction costs will not fall solely on the ratepayer. He said the next important step for the project is the proposed community consultation process.

“The detailed design through to the construction and future management of the new facilities will be the shared responsibility of all the key stakeholders, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the project,” explained Mr. Murphy.

“The ambition is that the project will serve as an exemplar of best practice across Northern Ireland. Down Council, the Saintfield Development Association and Saintfield Sports Club are also pursuing further grant applications and funding opportunities with Sport NI and a number of other sources.”

Mr. Murphy said it’s hoped the new centre will feature a multi-court sports hall boasting a stage for community arts performances and local talent promotion, community and youth rooms, a fitness suite, changing facilities, entrance foyer and training surfaces.

“The new centre could also have dedicated facilities for the schools in the area and possibly house youth workers attached to the South Eastern Education and Library Board. This is a great opportunity for the people of Saintfield and the surrounding area.

“The community centre has the potential to become a new hub for the town, complementing existing activities provided by church, school, community and sports groups.”

Mr. Murphy added: “The hard work starts now and by bringing the people of Saintfield together, working alongside council officers, the dream will become a reality in the near future.