Buchanan: Major investment that shows Mid Ulster is committed to supporting sport, health and community wellbeing
DUP Mid Ulster MLA Keith Buchanan has described the unveiling of £3.6m upgraded facilities at the Mid Ulster Sports Arena at Cookstown as ‘a big step forward for local sport facilities.’
The investment, funded through the Council's Capital Investment Programme (£2.4m) and Sport NI's National Lottery Multi Facility Fund (£1.2m) was officially opened on Wednesday by the Council Chair, Councillor Deirdre Varsani, and Sports NI Vice Chair, Stephen Reid.
The new Multi Sports Hub features: an eight-lane athletics track; a new 3G synthetic pitch, ballwall, walking trail, floodlighting, new fencing and supporting infrastructure.
Speaking after the opening, Mr Buchanan said: “This is a major investment that shows Mid Ulster is committed to supporting sport, health and community wellbeing.”
"The new hub will help clubs, athletes, families and community groups by providing modern and accessible spaces for sport and recreation.
“I’m pleased to see this investment. It will create more chances for people to get involved in sport, help develop local talent, encourage healthier lifestyles and strengthen Mid Ulster’s reputation as a place that invests in its
community. Today’s opening shows what can be achieved through partnership and long‑term planning. It’s a great day for local sport.”
Designed by Mid Ulster-based McGurk Architects and delivered by contractor Tony Patterson Sportsground, the project complements the arena's existing high-quality facilities while providing modern, accessible infrastructure for athletics, football and wider community use.
Throughout the development, Mid Ulster District Council worked closely with Sport NI, Disability Sport Northern Ireland and Mid Ulster Disability Forum to ensure the facilities were designed in accordance with the Inclusive Sports Facility Guidelines, creating an accessible environment for all users.