New groups on the cards for Blackskull

The formation of a new community group and a pre-school club have been earmarked for the Blackskull area.
Fionnuala Anderson, Early Years Specialist - Craigavon and Banbridge, Barbara Gamble, Blackskull and Jo-Anne Dobson MLA.Fionnuala Anderson, Early Years Specialist - Craigavon and Banbridge, Barbara Gamble, Blackskull and Jo-Anne Dobson MLA.
Fionnuala Anderson, Early Years Specialist - Craigavon and Banbridge, Barbara Gamble, Blackskull and Jo-Anne Dobson MLA.

Around 50 people gathered at Wilson Hall, in the village to hear of the need for a community group to improve and enhance the area.

DUP Councillors Carla Lockhart and Mark Baxter described the establishment of such a group as a ‘huge step’ for Blackskull.

“There were lots of ideas and suggestions as to how to foster community spirit in the village and provide a service for all ages be it pre-school places, sporting activity, youth club and a senior citizens club,” said Mrs Lockhart.

Residents were resolute in their need for a play area and potentially a multi-use-games area.

“We, as elected representatives, are committed to ensuring that Blackskull has services that meet the needs of the area.

“It was clear there are a number of people who want to make this happen and from it a small committee has been formed so that a full-fledged community group can be formulated and be the vehicle for success.

“Over the coming weeks and months we have committed council assistance in the setting up of the community group. It is vital the community get behind this initative. To ensure delivery it is vital that everyone works together.”

Meanwhile Ulster Unionist MLA Jo-Anne Dobson welcomed a new Early Years group for Blackskull.

Mrs Dobson said: “Establishing a pre-school can be a daunting experience, but I very much welcome the commitment from Early Years of help and assistance throughout the processes and look forward to seeing the new group established.”

Early Years provides information and training for parents, childcare providers, employers and authorities.