‘Vibrant centre’ to open early next year

Carrickfergus YMCA signed a contract with Ballymena-based Dixons Construction to build a new centre for youth and community use.

The three-storey premises with connecting lift will include a 2560sq ft multi-purpose activity space, adult programme room / kitchen facility and two units for community partners with their own street entrance.

The first floor will feature a youth and group work area with staging for events ; social area youth information point for advice and a café area, plus an administration/reprographics room.

Second floor facilities comprise a group work classroom, IT suite and two additional classrooms.

The build element of the scheme is £820,000 and the YMCA expects to open the centre, which is part-funded through the EU’s PEACE III Programme, in early 2012.

Chairperson Robert Hunter explained: “It is intended that a range of activities will take place in the building such as keep fit, young people’s drop, youth leadership training, education and skills development and programmes to meet the needs of the community .

“The board of carrickfergus YMCA is planning for a vibrant centre where all members of the community can meet,learn new skills, develop and above all have fun.”

“Carrickfergus YMCA would like to thank the local businesses, the council and MLAs for all their support in making this happen.

“We would also like to thank our funders the International fund for Ireland, Department of Education youth branch, Ulster Garden Villages, Carrickfergus Borough Council, Irish Salt Mining & Exploration Co, TBF Ministries and the CAN PEACE III partnership who receive funding from the European Union’s PEACE III Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body.”

Elected representatives joined members of the YMCA and the contractor for Friday’s signing ceremony at the Coast Road Hotel.

Councillor Roy Beggs MLA, commented: “Having been involved in trying to improve the town centre and enable the development of premises that will improve opportunities for the community, I am delighted the YMCA has now formally signed the build contract for the centre which involves significant grant funding from IFI, the Department of Education and a number of other funders.

“This will be a wonderful asset in a town centre location which will be easily accessible to all young people of the borough.”