Communities Minister has welcomed the launch of a
new Urban Sports Park in Downpatrick, saying it is a major
addition for the town.
Funded by over £439,000 from his Department with additional
support from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Dunleath
Urban Sports Park will provide young people and families with an
exciting new space for cycling, skateboarding and wheeled sports.
The project, which was delivered by the council in partnership
with the Department for Communities (DfC), will provide an
inclusive space for sports enthusiasts of all skill levels aged 8
and over, transforming part of Dunleath Park into a dynamic new
outdoor destination featuring an 80-metre pump track with banked
turns and undulations, and a 400m² skatepark with ramps, grind
rails and trick features.
The significant investment forms part of the wider regeneration
of Downpatrick, designed to attract visitors, strengthen links
with the town centre and nearby Downpatrick Leisure Centre, and
encourage healthier, more active lifestyles.
Minister Lyons said: “I am pleased that my
Department has been able to support the redevelopment of Dunleath
Urban Sports Park. This investment has delivered a high-quality
space that will promote health and wellbeing, encourage active
lifestyles, and draw more people into Downpatrick town centre.
It's a project that will deliver long-lasting benefits for the
whole community.”
The project was identified as a priority through the Downpatrick
Living High Streets initiative and championed by the Downpatrick
Regeneration Working Group. Together, these partners have ensured
the new Urban Sports Park reflects community needs whilst
contributing to the ongoing regeneration of the town.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Chairperson, Councillor Philip
Campbell said: “This project is a great example of how
partnership working and collaboration can deliver real results
for our district. Dunleath Urban Sports Park is a vibrant, modern
facility that will support our young people, encourage outdoor
activity and contribute to the ongoing regeneration of
Downpatrick. We are proud to see this vision become a reality.”
Mal McGrady Chair of the Downpatrick Regeneration Working Group,
commented: “The opening of Dunleath Urban Sports Park marks
an important milestone in our efforts to revitalise Downpatrick.
It not only provides young people with a safe and inclusive space
to enjoy but also strengthens the town centre, helping to build a
more connected community.”
The Dunleath Urban Sports Park is now officially open to the
public and is already welcoming skateboarders, skaters, BMX
riders and scooter users.
