One of Lisburn's best-known landmarks re-opened its doors to the public last week, following a £1 million facelift.

The Bridge Community Centre, formerly the Temperance Institute, which has served the community for over a century, has undergone a complete refit designed to meet the standards required of a modern community facility.

"This Opening is a very special occasion for the many groups that use the Bridge Community Centre and for those who campaigned for its continued use and upgrade by the Council," said Councillor Brian Heading, Chairman of Lisburn City Council's Leisure Services Committee.

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"The Bridge was host to over 70,000 users annually, and was an important facility which the public wanted retained."

As well as being the home to the Council's Community Services Section, including the Resource Centre and Minibus Service, it also provides a permanent base for the Citizens Advice Bureau, the South Eastern Education and Library Board’s Youth Service and the Contact a Family Organisation.

The £1 million refurbishment has provided a new access to the Ground Floor and lift provision to all floors together with a range of facilities for people with disabilities and an extension to the Citizens Advice Bureau.

Unveiling a plaque at the re-opening, Lisburn Mayor, Councillor James Tinsley spoke of his pride at being able to officiate at such an occasion.

"Those engaged in community work have in this refurbished facility a centrally located community centre to take pride in and we are confident that the building will continue to prove a great asset to our City," he concluded.

Any individual or Group wanting to know more about what the newly refurbished Bridge Community Centre has to offer should contact the staff on: 028 9266 2496.

(JM/NS)