A range of new GAA facilities are set to open at west Belfast's Davitt Park this weekend.

The £1.5 million investment involved the construction of a a full-sized GAA pitch, spectator stand and changing pavilion.

Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Hargey will unveil the new facilities this Saturday, 16 February.

The project was supported by Belfast City Council's Investment Fund and Schools Enhancement Fund, as well as The Space and Place Programme, through the National Lottery Community Fund.

Space and Place Programme Co-ordinator, Michael Hughes commented: "The Michael Davitt Club and surrounding communities must be congratulated for working together to identify how a once derelict space, that was a magnet for anti-social behaviour, could be transformed.  

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"Following this investment, thanks to National Lottery players, local people can now benefit from a wide range of outdoor amenities and positively enhance their physical and mental health in a safe and fit for purpose environment."

Davitt chairperson, Tommy Shaw added: "Since being founded in the lower part of the Falls Road more than a century ago, the club has proudly and continuously offered the local community sporting, cultural and health related opportunities, amazingly without the use of a playing field of our own.  

"Now, thanks to our funders and the support of the Antrim and Ulster GAA and local community, we have transformed a piece of unused ground within the Corpus Christi College grounds, along with an adjoining derelict site, into a vibrant club asset.

"While Davitt Park will be home to our club, I am hopeful it will encourage and attract the local and wider community of all ages to improve their health and wellbeing by making full use of these magnificent facilities, which can only lead to a positive and vibrant community spirit."

(CM)