Northern Ireland firm GRAHAM has been appointed as construction partner to deliver the new Ballycastle Leisure Centre in County Antrim.

The new £16 million project will be jointly funded through the UK Government and the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council.

Jonathan Hall, Managing Director at GRAHAM, said: "We are pleased to be working in partnership with Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council to bring this much-needed facility to Ballycastle. The new leisure centre will provide a modern, inclusive space that supports health, wellbeing and community engagement."

Jonathan added: "Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that enhances the local area while aligning with sustainability objectives."

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Located at 13-39 Quay Road, Ballycastle, the project involves the construction of a brand-new leisure centre on the site of a former sports pitch.

The development will replace an existing 3G sports pitch with modern, purpose-built facilities, including a 25-metre, four-lane swimming pool, gym, large studio, splash area with spa features, a bouldering wall, outdoor pump track, off-road running/walking trail, accessible play park and changing and reception facilities. Work is due to begin in March 2025, with completion scheduled for December 2026.

Designed by Hall Black Douglas, the centre will be a benchmark in sustainable design, achieving Net Zero Carbon in operation and incorporating BREEAM and Passivhaus principles. To further its sustainability credentials, the project will feature solar photovoltaic panels on the roof and a solar carport, generating over 205,000 kWh of renewable energy annually.

Welcoming the announcement, Mayor Councillor Ciarán McQuillan added: "The commencement of this project does indeed mark an exciting milestone for both this project and Ballycastle and we look forward to working with GRAHAM."

For more information on GRAHAM, visit: www.graham.co.uk

Photo: Hall Black Douglas