Saul hall plan backed by council

Saul hall plan backed by council

29 May 2013

AMBITIOUS plans to redevelop Saul’s community hall have received a boost from Down Council.

The local authority has backed a request from St. Patrick’s GAC which is seeking finance from the landfill tax scheme to help renovate the building which is at the hub of village life.

Down Council is permitted to pay six per cent of the tax levied on every tonne of waste at its Drumanakelly landfill site near Seaforde to groups and organisations spearheading community projects. Funding of almost £86, 570 is being awarded to St. Patrick’s GAC which will cover the cost of the renovation programme.

Councillor Gareth Sharvin said renovating the hall will benefit the people of Saul, Raholp, Ballee and surrounding areas. He explained the GAA club bought the hall to ensure the club and local community will have a base for all their activities.

“The hall requires a major renovation inside and out. It needs a new ceiling,

lights, windows, doors, insulation, heating, toilet facilities for able bodied and disabled, a stage, new kitchen and new furniture,” he revealed.

“All this work is needed to ensure hall users have safe and comfortable surroundings. It is also important the building is energy efficient.”

Councillor Sharvin described the renovation of the hall as a “massive undertaking” for the community of Saul. He said local people are to be congratulated for their innovation in making the redevelopment plans a reality.

The councillor explained that while the community hall continues to be used, the proposed improvements will not only make a major difference, but encourage other groups to use it.

In addition, he said the upgrade will ensure the hall is more suitable for indoor sports activities, allowing disabled people greater participation, with user numbers set to increase.

Councillor Sharvin continued: “The upgraded hall will provide an opportunity to deliver a range of new activities and will be at the hub of the local community, encouraging pride and participation.

“The renovation project is supported by everyone in the area and existing groups which use it, including the indoor bowling and keep-fit clubs and cross-community playgroup.”

Councillor Sharvin said he looks forward to assisting all those involved with the ambitious hall regeneration project to make it a reality.