£39million invested in sports infrastructure

Sports Minister Nelson McCausland today highlighted that in the period 2008-2010, up to £39million has been spent by the Northern Ireland Executive on capital investment projects to enhance local sports infrastructure.

The Minister was speaking as he officially opened the most recent example of that investment, the newly refurnished Tollymore National Outdoor Centre in Newcastle.

The Minister said: “During 2008-10 my Department, through Sport NI, has invested £39million in capital projects to benefit the sports sector in Northern Ireland. This investment is clear evidence that the Northern Ireland Executive believes that sport is pivotal, not only to our health and well being but to that of the local economy.

“This iconic building, which received £5million investment, is a perfect example of how this spend is producing tangible results and emphasises the importance of countryside recreation and sport.”

As well as an upgrade to all existing facilities, the centre also has many new facilities that make it a state of the art national centre. The new centre now includes a purpose built kayaking pool, indoor and outdoor rock climbing, full catering facilities and twin en-suite accommodations.

Minister concluded: “Tollymore National Outdoor Centre is more than a building. It is an encouragement to delivering sporting and recreational success for Northern Ireland. The Centre will act as a gateway to further open up the potential of the Mournes for sport and leisure activities, drawing people from across Northern Ireland and increasing our attraction to overseas visitors.”

Notes to editors:

1. The redevelopment allows Tollymore to continue to provide a wide range of courses such as rock climbing, canoeing, hill walking, mountain biking, orienteering, coasteering and mountaineering to individuals, groups and organisations at all levels.
2. Media enquiries should be addressed to the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure Press Office on 028 9051 5047 or email DCAL Press Office . Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.