Down GAA is delighted to announce the appointment of McAdam as the lead design team for the Ballykinlar Centre of Participation, Wellbeing and Shared Learning Hub.
This appointment represents a major milestone in the delivery of the €15.4 million project, which is supported through the PEACEPLUS Programme and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). Developed by Down GAA as lead partner, in collaboration with Co-operation Ireland and the County Down Rural Community Network (CDRCN), the Centre will provide modern facilities designed to serve both sporting and community needs.
The new hub will feature spaces dedicated to sports, health and wellbeing programmes, education, training, and shared community activities. It will act as a focal point for people of all ages and backgrounds, promoting inclusion, participation, and lifelong learning. By combining high-quality sports infrastructure with flexible spaces for cultural and social use, the Centre will help foster stronger connections within Ballykinlar and across the wider area.
McAdam brings a wealth of experience in designing high-quality sports, leisure, and community facilities across Ireland and the UK. Their appointment ensures that the Ballykinlar project will be underpinned by creative, functional design that reflects both the ambitions of Down GAA and the needs of the community.
Maureen O’Higgins, Chairperson Down GAA, said “This is an exciting step forward for the Ballykinlar project. With McAdams on board, we are confident the design process will reflect both the ambition of Down GAA and the needs of the local community. This partnership will help ensure the hub delivers real and lasting benefits for Ballykinlar and the wider area”
John Herron, McAdam Design, said “On behalf of the Integrated Consultant Design Team, McAdam Design are delighted to be appointed to deliver the new Ballykinlar Centre of Participation, Wellbeing & Shared Learning Hub. As a practice working across the Island of Ireland, with a strong interest in delivering projects within County Down, we are especially proud to support this landmark redevelopment in collaboration with SEUPB, PeacePlus funders, and the wider stakeholder groups.
Down GAA holds a special place in the history of Gaelic games as a trailblazing All-Ireland football title of 1960 that changed the landscape of the sport, to the county’s five Sam Maguires, the red and black have become a symbol of pride and passion across Ireland in Football, Hurling and Camogie, competing at the very top.
We look forward to drawing upon our extensive sporting experience to deliver the best possible outcome – creating lasting facilities for Down GAA for all present and future users!”
The appointment of McAdams signals the beginning of the design phase and represents another significant step towards making the Ballykinlar Centre a reality. The hub is set to become a landmark facility that promotes healthier lifestyles, expands opportunities for participation in sports and a wide range of activities, and provides a modern, inclusive space where the entire community can come together.
By Shauna McKay
Wed 8th Oct
