Substantial improvement works underway at Greenisland Community Centre

Refurbishment works to the tune of £200,000 has commenced at Greenisland Community Centre.

Funding for improvement works was approved by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council earlier this year, with RMC Construction Ltd appointed to complete the extensive work.

The centre will be closed to the community while work takes place and it is estimated that the facility will reopen by the end of the year.

The three-month refurbishment programme will provide increased disability access to the centre, an improved external façade and improvements to the existing roof.

Plans also include an enhanced multi-purpose floor in the main hall, refurbished toilet facilities and storage and improvements to the ceiling structure in the main hall.

The works make up part of the Greenisland Masterplan for which there is a Greenisland Regeneration Group made up of elected members, community and statutory representatives.

Visiting the centre, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston, said: “It’s wonderful to see the refurbishment work at Greenisland Community Centre get underway. Mid and East Antrim Council strive to make a difference in local communities and make a positive impact where it matters most.

“From the very outset, I reached out to the primary users and stakeholders involved with the community centre and I want to put on record my thanks for their input and continued support for the community in Greenisland through this facility.

“I would also like to put on record my thanks to the council officers who quickly turned this project into a reality.”

Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Andrew Wilson, said: “I know that the local people who use the centre will be very excited about having a newly refurbished facility.

“This work will secure the long term future of the building and ensures that the many children and families who enjoy activities here, can continue to do so.

“I’d like to welcome RMC Construction Limited on board and look forward to seeing work in progress over the next few months.”

Councillor Marc Collins, added: “Local people have always been at the heart of our plans and we are delighted that this new community space will be upgraded for their use.

“We want the centre to be a legacy for the people of Greenisland and a focal point for residents, hosting events, classes and community groups.

“We have worked closely with them and will continue to consult with them on the final exterior of the new building.”

Alderman Noel Williams, said: “I am delighted that the Greenisland Community Centre is undergoing a complete refurbishment as a precursor to the implementation of the Greenisland Development Framework which was developed back in 2015.

“Greenisland is crying out for a new Community Hub in line with the priorities in the Framework document.

“The Plan runs to 2030 and I look forward to the new Greenisland Hub and other priorities, such as the potential improved layout of Greenisland Station and other priorities being planned throughout the period 2020-2030. “

Councillor Bobby Hadden, who is Chair of the Greenisland Regeneration Group, concluded: “I have lived in this area all my life and I am delighted to see this work coming to fruition.

“I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge my fellow councillors who all worked together in order to get this refurbishment work approved.

“We are all committed to providing inclusive and welcoming shared spaces that are fit for purpose and can meet the needs of a wide range of user groups in the Greenisland area.

“The refurbishment work will allow the centre to become a vibrant and busy community centre, facilitating new activities and the delivery of vital services within Greenisland and the surrounding area.”