Down GAA was honoured to welcome the Secretary of State The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP, to its Ballykinlar site for a visit marking an important stage in the €15.4 million PEACEPLUS-funded Ballykinlar Centre of Participation, Wellbeing and Shared Learning Hub. The event highlighted the ongoing development of a landmark facility for participation, health and wellbeing in County Down.
The project is supported through the PEACEPLUS Programme and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). It is being developed by Down GAA as lead partner, in collaboration with Co-operation Ireland and County Down Rural Community Network (CDRCN). Together, they are transforming the Ballykinlar site into a modern, inclusive hub that combines cutting-edge facilities with flexible spaces for learning, sport and cultural activities.
The new hub will feature high-quality sports pitches, training areas, educational spaces, meeting rooms, and amenities for heritage, cultural, and recreational use. By combining excellent sporting infrastructure with flexible indoor and outdoor facilities, the Centre will provide opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to engage, learn and thrive, helping foster stronger connections and building peace and prosperity within Ballykinlar and across the region.
Maureen O’Higgins, Chairperson of Down GAA, said:
“We were delighted to welcome the Secretary of State to Ballykinlar and to share the vision behind this transformative project. The Ballykinlar Centre will be a place that brings people together, supports participation, and promotes wellbeing. It is a true example of collaboration and shared purpose, helping to strengthen connections and opportunities across our community.”
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn said:
“This great project is about a lot more than building sports facilities; it is also about building bridges and positive change.
“The UK Government is supporting this project by making available Ministry of Defence land, as well as contributing towards the €15.4m PEACEPLUS funding for the development.
“This project is a powerful example of the shared future we are all working to create for the people of Northern Ireland .”
The visit highlights the Ballykinlar Hub as a transformative project shaping the future of community life. It reflects Down GAA’s ongoing commitment to inclusion, health and opportunity, building on the county’s proud sporting heritage and its dedication to bringing people together through shared purpose and achievement.
By Shauna McKay Fri 10th Oct
