The Mayor, Alderman Amanda Grehan, officially opened Canal Boxing Academy’s new facility at Queen Elizabeth II Playing Fields on 18 May.

Having outgrown its previous base in terms of size, facilities and function, the club now has a purpose-built venue with state-of-the-art equipment, a gym and a kitchen.

The project was funded by PEACEPLUS and the council’s Community Investment Fund (CIF). PEACEPLUS is a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).

The new building has been welcomed by Canal Boxing Academy, local sports groups, schools and community organisations, who will be able to use its amenities. It includes two full-size boxing rings, a well-equipped gym, changing rooms, showers, toilets and storage space.

Mayor Alderman Amanda Grehan, said: "I am delighted to see all the hard work and effort spent on this investment become a reality. This is a much needed facility which will provide an inclusive, accessible and fit for purpose space for the whole community. More of our residents can look forward to using these fantastic training and gym facilities on their doorstep."

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Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of Communities and Wellbeing, commented: "It's great to see Canal Boxing Club moving into their new home. It will now be able to accommodate more clubs, groups and individuals – bringing more communities together to train, compete and get active. It will have such a positive impact for the residents and area."

Speaking at the event, Councillor Uel Mackin, Chair of the Lisburn & Castlereagh PEACEPLUS Partnership, praised those involved and said: “this is a great asset for the area. Schools, community groups, sport clubs and local residents will all benefit from a bigger and better recreational facility and from a wide range of activities, as well as boxing.”

Jim Russell, Club Secretary at Canal Boxing Academy, explained: "We have been in our current premises for 17 years and they're beyond repair. We will be moving into a state of the art facility which is outstanding. We will go from strength to strength in our new purpose built club. We will be able to increase our membership and our new changing facilities will help women and girls to join our club.

"We are grateful to PEACEPLUS and Lisburn and Castlereagh City council for funding the new building and look forward to moving in and welcoming the community to check out the facilities."