A new Eco Centre has been opened in Omagh by Northern Ireland Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland.

The facility, which cost £225,000, will be managed by the Mullaghmore and Castleview Community Association (MACCA). It has been constructed within their Community Garden which already has allotments and a nature reserve. The new centre will provide facilities for the community garden, as well as space for cultural events, educational workshops and seminars, and exhibitions.

Opening the Eco Centre, Minister McCausland said: "I would like to congratulate the Mullaghmore and Castleview Community Association and all those involved in the development of this new Eco Centre. All should be very proud of the innovative design and the achievement of being awarded the 'Passiv Haus' certificate.

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"This centre will raise environmental awareness and I hope it will encourage local residents to get more involved in the community garden project and volunteering in general. The facility will allow the association to increase its contribution to the social economy and create a level of sustainability that will enable them to provide more services and educational opportunities for local residents."

Councillor Sean Begley, Chairman of Omagh District Council, added: "Omagh District Council's contribution to the development of this centre is testament to our commitment to supporting the creation and sustainability of strong, vibrant local communities, such as the one here in Mullaghmore and Castleview."

Additional development work has been planned for the garden and allotment space to make them more accessible for those with physical disabilities and the elderly. In addition, MACCA plans to develop a forest school/educational base by planting native trees and bushes together with digging areas, communal seating and natural playing spaces in the near future.

(JP/IT)