Refurbishment work on a new community hub in Rathfriland, County Down, has been completed.

Action group SOAR ABC invested over £208,000 in the project.

The former St John's Church of Ireland Church Hall has been transformed into a multi-purpose community hub, which will deliver a wide range of services and activities for the Rathfriland community and surrounding areas.

At a total cost of almost £280,000, the project saw extensive renovations to the main activity hall, kitchen and toilet facilities as well as the building’s entrance and car park. The project brings a breath of fresh air to the building, helping it deliver a diverse range of multi-generational activities such as health and wellbeing programmes and IT based initiatives, as well as providing ample space to accommodate a large number of community groups and organisations.

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Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Kevin Savage commented: "It is great to see these fantastic renovation works at Rathfriland’s Community Hub now complete. After months of hard work, it is clear to see this centre will be a real asset to the community as it will not only help meet the needs of local residents but it will also provide a safe and welcoming space for all."

Securing nearly 75% of the total project costs from SOAR ABC’s Rural Basic Services Scheme, the project organisers – Greater Rathfriland Community Development Forum – are committed to developing and enhancing the centre even further. The group have plans to deliver a new media room, sensory room and training suite as well as one new part-time job.

Chair of SOAR ABC, Councillor Kyle savage commented: "The refurbishment of the hall and works to the existing car park at St John’s Hall have provided a great recreational facility in a rural area, which will act as a focus for both physical and mental wellbeing. It is great to see the works are now complete on site after many months of planning."