The V36 Urban Sports Park is part of the Council’s Shared Spaces and Services Programme, funded under the EU’s PEACE IV Programme (which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body) and was identified through consultation as a unique project to the area which could deliver significant benefits particularly for young people.
Alderman Phillip Brett, Chairperson of the Planning Committee welcomed the decision enthusiastically saying the urban sports park was the icing on the cake for the very successful V36 complex.
“The addition of the urban sports park will truly enhance the offer at V36 for all skating and biking enthusiasts. The Urban Sports Park will be the biggest in Ireland, offering a first class experience for amateurs and professionals.
“The Council has engaged with a range of stakeholders to ensure that the design and operation of the sports park will meet the needs of users of all ages and abilities.
“We are very excited that this project has come to fruition and particularly thank the Special European Union Programmes Body for the funding of £147,548.04which will enable the Council to deliver this fantastic scheme.”
A Reference Group has been formed from those who expressed an interest during the consultation process, and is made up of Urban Sports enthusiasts. The Reference group met on 22 October 2018 and selected four representatives from the group to sit on the Stakeholder Group.
The Stakeholder group is made up of Elected Members, Council Officers, and the representatives from the Reference Group. This collective group attended the Stakeholder meeting on 24 October 2018 where they received a presentation from the designer, had an opportunity to ask questions and express views; the Stakeholder group unanimously selected option 3 as the design to progress to build stage.
Ongoing work with the Reference Group will continue through the Council’s Leisure team, through which they will help to shape a Sports Development Plan for the park; assist in ensuring ongoing use, attract Urban Sports Events, and promote the uptake of urban sports.
Match-funding for the project has been provided by the Executive Office in Northern Ireland and the Department of Rural and Community Development in Ireland.
It is anticipated that the Urban Sports Park will be completed in 2020.
For further information contact Leisure Services T: 028 944 63113 E:
active@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk