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10/10/2024

Ballyearl Arts and Leisure Centre Retains 'Regional Centre of the Year' title at ukactive Awards

Ballyearl Arts and Leisure Centre has proudly retained its title as the champions of the ‘Regional Centre of the Year’ at the ukactive Awards, held on Thursday 3 October in ICC Birmingham.

This recognition marks the Centre’s second consecutive win, showcasing its excellence amidst strong competition from the public and private sectors across the province and in Wales.

 

In addition, Joe Hughes, a dedicated volunteer at the Valley Leisure Centre was nominated for the 'Physical Hero of the Year' award, acknowledging his unwavering commitment to promoting an active lifestyle in his community. While Mr. Hughes did not win, his inspiring volunteer work makes him a winner among participants in the Live Long programme.  

 

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor Neil Kelly praised the Council’s dedicated staff for their consistent delivery of excellent service. He said, “I’m delighted that Ballyearl Arts and Leisure Centre once again won the Regional Centre of the Year. Achieving this level of leisure services consistently over the past two years is no small feat.”

“It is a phenomenal achievement for our leisure services, having first secured the title in 2022 with the Valley Leisure Centre, and now Ballyearl Leisure Centre for the past two years. Their dedication is paramount in helping our residents lead healthier, more active lifestyles.”

The success of Ballyearl adds to the Council's recent achievements, as they picked up the accolade for 'UK Overall Council of the Year Winner' 2024 for Service Delivery by the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE).