21/11/2014

New Shared Sports Facility Opens In Belfast

A new shared sports facility has been opened in Belfast.

Lord Mayor Nichola Mallon and Arts and Leisure Minister Carál Ní Chuilín opened the new sports facility at Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School.

A joint project between Aquinas and Ulster Rugby, the facility was funded by the Department of Culture Arts and Leisure (DCAL) and Belfast City Council.

It features a synthetic 3G pitch that can be used for rugby, football or GAA training.

Lord Mayor, Nichola Mallon, said: "A key goal of Belfast City Council’s Investment Programme is to prioritise projects that make a real difference to communities. This is a great example.

"Our £15m investment in pitches throughout all parts of the city will ensure greater use of facilities as well as boosting excellence across a range of sports."

Speaking at the opening, the Minister said: "The transformation has been incredible and we now have fantastic facilities available not only to pupils of Aquinas Grammar School and Ulster Rugby but also the wider community.

"I am pleased that my Department’s contribution of £560,000, together with Belfast City’s Council’s contribution, has produced such a worthwhile outcome. I am delighted to see the school estate being maximised for the benefits of the wider community."

(IT/MH)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

22 January 2013
Heavy Snow Closes Over 80 Schools
Over 80 schools across Northern Ireland have been closed as the heavy snow continues to cause disruption on Tuesday morning. The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning, as the snow is continuing to affect many roads. Areas which have been majorly disrupted include Lisburn, Castlereagh and Carryduff.
02 March 2018
Schools Closures Across NI
The Department of Education have published a list of all schools across that have confirmed they will be closed today, Friday 2nd March, 2018 due to the adverse weather conditions.
18 September 2002
Vandals destroy new sports facility before opening
A series of sustained attacks on a new sports facility, before it has even opened its doors, have left it completely unusable Belfast City Council confirmed today.
15 January 2024
Nominations Sought For 2024 Belfast Sports Awards
Belfast City Council has called for nominations for the 2024 Belfast Sports Awards, which aims to recognise the hard work and dedication of those involved in sport, from grassroots level to the very top of the international sporting arena.
13 February 2024
Tourism NI Launch New 'Get Into Tourism' Training Course
Tourism NI has announced the launch of a new accredited training course, designed to encourage people to 'Get Into Tourism'. The organisation has teamed up with Belfast Metropolitan College to deliver the free Level 2 City and Guilds qualifications.