Write a commentAn update presentation on work at the 14 acre Thomas Davis GAC Community Sports Campus at Doran's Hill, Newry has been presented at a meeting on Monday at Courtneys in Newry.
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To date Thomas Davis GAC has developed the first phase a Full size sand based grass Gaelic Field which began in June 2012. The Gaelic field was fully completed with a Perimeter wall & fence, Ballstops and team dugout areas. Their Senior Football Team had their first competitive game on 26 April 2015 against Lissummon GAC.
Committee and Members have been working together since then to ensure Phase 2 is achieved.
Phase 2 will involve a Community Pavilion fitted with 6 changing rooms to accommodate both male and female teams with changing and shower facilities all located on the lower floor of the building. The second and third floors will accommodate community rooms and a community gym.
The presentation was chaired by Gerry O’Reilly ( Dev. Officer ) with Kevin Kelly (HMD Architects Derry) giving the main walk through of the main building and the 2 floors functionality.
The project manager. (Arlene Barton ) from Armagh Banbridge Craigavon council attended and confirmed the project partners, the financials and the timeline for the project completion.
In the absence of Cathal Boylan (MLA) who had been instrumental in securing the £600k funding from SIF, Conor Murphy (MLA) outlined the role of SIF and its ambition in creating a fund targeting social exclusion.
Conor impressed attendee’s on the imperative to consolidate these monies and promote community based activities and engagement going forward.
The major housing development of circa 300 homes being developed adjacent to the club development was explained by Clr. Liz Kimmins who tirelessly has been the liaison between residents group, the club and the developer MJM.
Liz clearly outlined the impact this will have on West Newry and placed particular emphasis on the major infrastructure upgrades which will greatly enhance the clubs developments.
It's planned that the next phase would be open in spring/summer 2020.
