Mid Ulster SDLP Councillor Malachy Quinn has welcomed the latest progress at Gortgonis, describing the movement on the new school development and future recreation centre as a major step forward for Coalisland.

He said the project has been talked about for many years and local people will be glad to finally see visible progress on a site that is central to education, sport and community life in the town.

“This is a very important step forward for Gortgonis and for Coalisland. This project has been discussed for a long time, and people want to see it delivered. The new school development, alongside the future recreation centre, has the potential to make a huge difference for children, families, clubs and the wider community,” he said.

Gortgonis Leisure Complex in Coalisland due to close as work on new hub progress...

How the proposed Gortgonis development will look when it is completed. Credit: Mid Ulster Council

placeholder image — How the proposed Gortgonis development will look when it is completed. Credit: Mid Ulster Council

“Gortgonis is not just a site on a map. It is used by schools, sports clubs, walkers, young people and families. That is why it is so important that, as work moves forward, local people are kept fully informed and that disruption is managed properly.

“There will clearly be challenges during the construction period, particularly around parking, access, traffic management, lighting and continued use of the track. I welcome the fact that arrangements are being made to keep the track open over the summer, even if a full 400m circuit is not available, but the Council must continue to provide clear and regular updates to all users of the site.

Cllr Quinn added that the key thing now is delivery.

“People in Coalisland have waited long enough for proper investment in modern educational, sporting and community facilities,” he said.