A special rededication of Ballyduff Community Centre to Northern Ireland Centenary Centre Ballyduff took place yesterday. This initiative was proposed by the local community and agreed by the Council as part of ‘A Country’s Centenary for Our Community’ – the Councils programme of Reflection, Commemoration and Inspiration to mark the 100-year anniversary of the creation of Northern Ireland.
Ballyduff Community Centre is a Council owned and managed facility which first opened in 1975 and was extensively refurbished in 2012. It has seen a diverse range of groups and individuals using the building during its 46-year history.
The centre is an invaluable asset to the local Community and is home to the daily Ballyduff Kids Club providing childcare to local families each morning. It is also home to its tenant Ballyduff Community Redevelopment Group.
The centre caters for a wide range of community activities and services 7 days per week including children’s activities, crafts workshops, indoor bowls, fitness classes, martial arts and many more.
During the pandemic the centre was a central hub for the distribution of essential food parcels to those in greatest need in the local community. Ballyduff Community Redevelopment Group played a pivotal role in this relief effort ensuring the most vulnerable in the local community were supported.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor Billy Webb said;
“I wish to thank the Council staff for their service over the lifetime of the building, including the current Caretaker, for the contribution they have made, and continue to make, to this facility and the local community.
“I would like to acknowledge the contribution of the Councils Northern Ireland Centenary Working Group of elected members and community representatives, Chaired by Cllr Dunlop, who have designed and delivered a comprehensive programme to mark this significant year. Today’s event as well as many others achieves a lasting legacy for this programme.
“It is an honour and privilege for me to share in the renaming of this centre and unveil a plaque to mark this occasion.”
