Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has officially opened a new £4 million sports complex at Stranmillis University College, marking a major enhancement to the institution's campus. The project, largely funded by the Department for the Economy, provides modern infrastructure to support teacher training, physical education, and community sports.

The development includes a multi-use 2G games area and a new 3G pitch, which is the first of its kind in Ireland to utilize specific environmentally friendly technology. To ensure the facilities can be used throughout the year, the project also delivered extensive floodlighting, medical and changing facilities, and upgraded parking for cycles, cars, and coaches.

The Department for the Economy provided 90 per cent of the capital required for the project, which was formally handed over to the College in March 2026. These facilities will directly support the delivery of Physical Education modules within undergraduate teacher education programmes and the College's BSc in Physical Education and Sport. Speaking at the official opening, Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said: "These new sports facilities at Stranmillis University College represent a significant investment in teacher education and student experience. Teachers play a vital role in our society and our economy, and it is essential that those training for the profession have access to modern, high‑quality facilities that support their learning and development."

Professor Jonathan Heggarty, Principal and CEO of Stranmillis University College, added: "Stranmillis is proud to introduce its brand-new sports complex, designed to meet the needs of a wide range of users, from our own students to community groups and elite sports organisations. These cutting edge facilities offer flexible, high-quality spaces for training, competition, events, and wellbeing activities.

"Sport has played a vital role in life at Stranmillis for over a century, not only for our clubs and societies but also for students across our programmes. For example, our Physical Education and Sport programme has grown significantly in recent years, establishing Stranmillis as a key provider in this important field. These new facilities will further strengthen our work in this area and provide our students with a hugely valuable resource."