A £1.1 million refurbishment project has been successfully completed at Ballynahinch Community Centre in County Down.

The works, funded by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, included both internal and external modifications, along with essential structural enhancements ensuring that Ballynahinch Community Centre remains accessible and fully operational for local residents and the surrounding areas for years to come.

Key upgrades and enhancements include:

• A new 100 square metre multi-purpose room providing additional space for activities such as aerobics and yoga;

• A new 43 square metre meeting room to accommodate smaller meetings, a range of programmes, one-to-one sessions and group gatherings of up to 20 to 30 people, complete with a kitchenette;

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• A new Changing Places facility featuring hoists, privacy screens, adult-sized changing benches and generous space for carers;

• An increase in parking capacity from the current 13 spaces (including two disabled spaces) to 38 spaces (including three disabled, two parent-toddler and 33 standard parking spaces).

These works were carried out following a series of consultations with the public, staff and centre users, which helped shape a new internal layout designed to encourage greater use of the centre and meet the evolving needs of the local community.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Councillor, Philip Campbell, said: "The reconfiguration and addition of new rooms make a huge difference to the flexibility and capacity of the centre. Their size and layout open up opportunities for a much wider range of activities and events. This significant investment reflects the council's long-term commitment to providing high-quality, inclusive community facilities. Ballynahinch Community Centre will continue to serve as a vital hub for residents - supporting health, wellbeing and social connection for years to come."