£245k investment for Greenisland Youth Centre

The works will include upgrades to the sports hall and social area at the premises.

A spokesperson for the Education Authority commented: “Our Youth Service is pleased to announce funding for the renovation of Greenisland Youth Centre.

"More than £245k is to be invested in the service for children and young people to ensure the building meets their needs and to inspire, support and challenge them be the best that they can be.

"The centre is expected to close for renovations around April, during which the Youth Service will be providing a service for young people by transporting them to neighbouring youth centres in Sunnylands and Whitehead.

"The renovation will upgrade the games hall and social area and provide space to develop a bespoke arts room and a new senior members room.

"The centre currently caters for over 150 registered members and it is hoped that the renovation will attract many more young people to engage with the service."

After the renovation, the centre will re-open with a four nights per week programme for children and young people aged 9 – 18 years, the spokesperson added.

Welcoming the news, Knockagh councillor Peter Johnston said: "We are also pleased that the EA are collaborating with MEA Council to explore more avenues of increased utilisation for this site and we hope this acts as a catalyst for much needed investment and renovation at the neighbouring community centre."