The development of Craigavon's new £35 million leisure centre is moving forward with help from a host of construction apprentices.

Contractor Farrans is working with up to 20 apprentices on the major project, providing a new and exciting range of opportunities for young people keen on progressing a career in the construction sector.

Since its launch last year, the apprenticeship programme has seen young people benefit from experience across a range of construction related roles.

When complete in 2020, the new centre will feature an eight-lane, 50-metre swimming pool, a teaching pool, fun pool and a spectator gallery. It will include the largest gym available on the island of Ireland, with state-of-the-art equipment, spin and dance studios. An extensive health and beauty suite, activity rooms, squash courts and a large sports hall suitable for a variety of sporting activities, as well an extensive outdoor watersports provision will also help form the development.

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The centre will also create 500 construction jobs during its development.

Speaking on the role of apprenticeships in the project, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Mealla Campbell, said: "Skills development is a key priority in helping to drive, support and grow a successful local economy and we’re delighted that working with Farrans on our largest capital project investment to date, has created so many opportunities for work-based learning and training have been created. Our apprentices are ambassadors for our Council and we're really proud of the work they do and the contribution they make."

Felim Blaney, Contracts Manager, Farrans Construction, added: "Our success is built on the skills and talent of our team and we're keen to drive recruitment numbers across all areas of our business and across the wider sector, producing a motivated 'talent pipeline' of keen and motivated people who will be our future leaders.

"Working with Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, we're delighted to be offering up to 20 people the opportunity to come and work with us to help us create an inspiring destination and a once-in-a-generation opportunity to help positively shape the health and wellbeing of everyone in the locality.

"Apprentices are vitally important for the local and wider economy and for providing on-the-job prospects in real-life scenarios. They also help to build skills and confidence and can help dramatically accelerate careers."

The construction phase alone is expected to deliver an estimated £6.5 million in direct wages to the economy, and the 500 jobs directly created are in addition to the staff that will run the new leisure facility.

(CM/JG)