Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council has announced that GRAHAM has been selected to deliver the new Ballycastle Leisure Centre.

The new project will be jointly funded through the UK Government and the Council and will see just over £16 million invested to provide high-quality fitness and recreational facilities for the local community.

Located at 13-39 Quay Road, Ballycastle, the project involves the construction of a brand-new leisure centre on the site of a former sports pitch. The development will replace an existing 3G sports pitch with modern, purpose-built facilities, including a 25-metre, four-lane swimming pool, gym, large studio, splash area with spa features, a bouldering wall, outdoor pump track, off-road running/walking trail, accessible play park, and changing and reception facilities. Work is due to begin in March 2025, with completion scheduled for December 2026.

Designed by Hall Black Douglas, the centre will be a benchmark in sustainable design, achieving Net Zero Carbon in operation and incorporating BREEAM and Passivhaus principles. To further its sustainability credentials, the project will feature solar photovoltaic panels on the roof and a solar carport, generating over 205,000 kWh of renewable energy annually.

Welcoming the announcement, Mayor Councillor Ciarán McQuillan said: “The provision of leisure and recreation facilities is central to the health and wellbeing of our communities. It has always been our aspiration to deliver a leading leisure centre in Ballycastle for the benefit of those who live there along with the town’s significant visitor population.

“We are delighted with the local community support for this initiative, and as a Council we are very pleased to act on behalf of our citizens to deliver significant investment, create a lasting legacy, and ensure future growth and development. The commencement of this project does indeed mark an exciting milestone for both this project and Ballycastle and we look forward to working with GRAHAM.”

Jonathan Hall, Managing Director at GRAHAM said: “We are pleased to be working in partnership with Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council to bring this much-needed facility to Ballycastle. The new leisure centre will provide a modern, inclusive space that supports health, wellbeing, and community engagement. Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that enhances the local area while aligning with sustainability objectives.”

For more information on GRAHAM, please visit: www.graham.co.uk