Eamon McMullan MEABC, Catherine Black MEABC, Patricia McConnell - Carnlough Community Association, Anthea Owens DAERA, Ald Gerardine Mulvenna, Mayor Ald Beth Adger MBE, John McVeigh MEABC, Cllr James McKeown, Mr Gabriel McAuley - Antrim Coast Lions Club, Claire Duddy MEABC, Mr Michael McPeake Antrim Coast Lions Club, Bernard Black Glenlough Community Centre Management Committee, Karen O’Neill DfC, Eamonn Matthews Shane Ui Neill GAA Glenarm, Eva Lee - Minor Player for St John’s and Co Antrim, Stacey Lee, St John’s Committee Registrar and Executive Committee Member.
Works to refurbish the Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) in Carnlough is now complete – with the facility boasting a new 3G carpet for users.
The refurbishment was carried out by E Quinns Civils Ltd. The project, which cost approximately £120k, was funded by the Department for Communities (DfC), the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council - as part of the COVID Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme.
The Carnlough MUGA - which is located near to Glenlough Community Centre - has been brought up to date - the existing playing surface has been replaced with a new 3G carpet and associated shockpad, plus new boundary fencing has been installed - including ball-stop fencing behind the goals.
The existing floodlighting will enable the local community to use the new facilities all year round.
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Beth Adger MBE, said:
“It is wonderful to see these improved facilities in Carnlough and I’m sure they will be welcomed by people of all ages from the surrounding area.
“This project will allow young people to come together outdoors in a safe environment and participate in physical activities which are beneficial to our mental health and wellbeing. The floodlighting will also ensure users can access the facility all year round.”
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA added:
"I welcome the opening of this new facility and I have no doubt that this will regenerate this underused space and will attract footfall through these improved amenities for residents and the wider community.
“The completion of this scheme, as part of the COVID Recovery Small Settlements Programme, demonstrates further evidence of how collaboration between my Department and colleagues in both DAERA and Council can deliver benefits for all.”
Minister for Agriculture, Environment & Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir MLA, said:
“I am delighted that this project has been brought to fruition through funding provided through the Covid Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme. Games areas are more than just a physical space. They play a vital role in our rural communities for those that are experiencing loneliness and isolation - offering a welcoming place for all to enjoy and participate in outdoor activities, regardless of age or ability - enhancing the quality of life for all!”