A new community hub has been built in Newry to help enhance and promote active, healthier lifestyles.

With an investment of £1.9 million, the Thomas Davis Community Hub was built just outside Newry City. Led by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, the project involved the construction of a brand new, purpose built building boasting modern and spacious leisure facilities and a dedicated community area.

A selection of Council and government representatives were on hand to mark the official opening of the new facility.

Speaking following the official opening, First Minister Paul Givan said: "This investment is a great example of how projects delivered through the Social Investment Fund are making a real impact in local communities.

"These upgraded facilities will help to improve the health and well-being of people of all ages and abilities. They will not only provide more sporting opportunities for children, young people and adults, but also enable the club to expand the range of services they provide to their local community."

Chair of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council's Leisure and Community Services Committee, Councillor Keith Haughian added: "I'm delighted to see the official opening of the hugely impressive Thomas Davis Community Hub in Newry today. The completed project, which was led by ABC Council, offers the local area and surrounding communities a modern and welcoming space to come together and enjoy a wide range of sporting and community development activities.

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"The Hub epitomises the lasting legacy of the Social Investment Fund by not only helping support and enrich residents' physical and mental wellbeing but also laying the foundations to build a stronger and more connected community."

The project was supported with £1.57 million from Social Investment Fund (SIF), through the Executive Office's Delivering Social Change Framework, and almost £400,000 contributions from the Department for Communities (DfC), Newry, Mourne and Down District (NMD) Council and Thomas Davis Gaelic Athletic Club (GAC).

Gerard O'Reilly from Thomas Davis, Newry GAC / LGFA commented: "This Hub project perfectly complements the existing playing facilities of Thomas Davis (Newry) GAC / LGFA, the clubs future strategic plans and its commitment to community engagement at all levels. An example has been set of how a committed voluntary sector can successfully collaborate with central and local government to provide 21st century services and facilities for local communities and citizens."

The £2 million Thomas Davis Community Hub marks the final SIF project to complete in the southern zone, which helped bring about a total capital investment of over £7.5 million to the area. Led by ABC Council, the Programme supported five projects improving 18 capital premises across the zone, helping fund construction projects such as new builds, refurbishments to church and community halls as well as upgrades to football pitches and facilities. The zone also received funding of around £2.7million for an employability revenue project which provided those who were most removed from the labour market a bridge to the world of work by improving participants’ skills and general employability.