Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has outlined its transformational plans for Dundonald International Ice Bowl during a key government visit.

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Brandon Lewis toured the facilities, which are set to be redeveloped with £12.2 million from the UK Government's Levelling Up Fund.

Speaking during his visit, Mr Lewis said: "The £12.2m funding provided to Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is the largest amount awarded for a single project in Northern Ireland. The plans I have seen today are ambitious and innovative and I am very excited to see the work at Dundonald International Ice Bowl get underway. This is truly a transformational project that will deliver great economic benefits by creating jobs and attracting visitors to what will undoubtedly be a top class leisure facility, tourist attraction and community hub."

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Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council Mayor, Alderman Stephen Martin added: "The transformation of Dundonald International Ice Bowl is a flagship project for our Council. It is of great importance, not only to Lisburn and Castlereagh, but for the whole of Northern Ireland. With over 600,000 visitors per year, the Ice Bowl supports local employment, tourism, and local business. Our ambitious plans include an Olympic sized skating rink, ten pin bowling, soft play, party facilities, a gym, cafes and coffee shops.

"The new development will also include essential community and healthcare services in state of the art buildings. With this funding confirmed from the Levelling up Fund, we are now a step closer to bringing our vision to life."

The next key step in the process will be to go out to tender for the development contract.