A construction programme has been agreed for the new Down Leisure Centre to connect to the Phoenix Natural Gas network, ahead of its official opening next month.

The Downpatrick centre will become the first commercial energy user to connect to the network, forming part of Phoenix's major extension programme into thirteen new towns across Co Down.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chief Executive, Liam Hannaway, welcomed the news: "Since approval was granted to extend the natural gas network to Downpatrick, Newry Mourne and Down Council has been very supportive of the project and we very much welcome natural gas now being available in the local area.

"When I first met with Phoenix Natural Gas to discuss gas availability in Downpatrick I was keen to ensure that Down Leisure Centre, which was already under construction, could be connected as soon as possible and avail of a cleaner and more efficient fuel source.

"The new three-storey leisure centre boasts a fitness suite, sports hall, multi-purpose activity rooms, squash courts and two swimming pools and a spa area, including a plunge pool, steam room and sauna. As a major energy user and a state-of-the-art centre, it was an obvious choice for us to install Phoenix Natural Gas to meet the demands of the centre and I look forward to officially opening the doors of Down Leisure Centre next month."

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Newry, Mourne and Down Council Chairman, Councillor Mark Murnin said: "Over the past year I have been meeting regularly with Phoenix Natural Gas representatives to ensure a smooth and efficient works programme in the town centre as the company works to make natural gas available to some 5,000 properties in the local area over the next few years.

"Working closely with Phoenix Natural Gas, a construction programme was agreed that would enable Down Leisure Centre to connect to the natural gas network ahead of its official opening next month. It's fantastic to now see the positive outcomes of the recent town centre construction programme as Down Leisure Centre becomes the first property to connect to the natural gas network.

"Not only are we looking forward to availing of the many benefits of natural gas within the centre, but it's great to see the historic town of Downpatrick benefit from an improved utility infrastructure and avail of a modern fuel choice."

Oliver Mars, Industrial & Commercial Sales Manager at Phoenix Natural Gas added: "Phoenix Natural Gas commenced its network build in Downpatrick last year and it's great to now have our first commercial user fully up and running with gas and enjoy the efficiency benefits of a modern heating system. Not only that, but the local area will benefit from the environmental credentials of natural gas as it produces less carbon than other fossil fuels.

"Whilst the connection of Down Leisure Centre to the natural gas network represents a flagship project for us, it's great to have natural gas now available to all businesses in the Downpatrick area and I look forward to connecting even more commercial customers over the coming months."

(CM)