New multi-purpose community centre will be 'a major boost' for the community in Drumsurn

Construction will soon commence on a new, portable building to replace the old community centre at Beech Road, Drumsurn.

The project is being delivered as part of Causeway Coast and Glens' Covid Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme, which seeks to address long-standing issues including rural poverty, isolation and service access in settlements of less than 5,000 people.

Drumsurn’s current community building had become dilapidated and is not fit for purpose. This project, which has been funded by the Department of Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs, the Department for Communities, the Department for Infrastructure and council, is set to bring a much-needed facility that will be available for the entire community and surrounding area.

The revitalisation scheme will allow the opportunity for community activities and services to be delivered once again.

As part of the restoration works, a path will be created to link the new building to the nearby playpark, adding a natural walking and cycling route to the village centre. Council hopes that this will develop a functional community building where a wide range of local activities and services can be delivered, regardless of age or ability.

To aid in tackling climate change and improving sustainability, the new building will be fitted with solar panels and will be one of the first Net Zero new builds in the Borough.

Work will begin soon and is expected to last for around 20 weeks.

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Stephen Callaghan said: “This exciting new development will be a major boost for the community in Drumsurn. The new centre will act as the local hub for the community and will enable the delivery of a wide variety of services under one roof.

“This new multi-purpose facility should enable people to look after their physical and mental health, as well as allowing us the opportunity to provide much needed services and activities to all ages.”

As part of this programme, other projects have been delivered around Armoy, Cushendall, Garvagh, Mosside, Greysteel, Kilrea and Rasharkin.

More projects are currently underway in Bushmills, Dernaflaw, Dervock and Gortnaghey to create new and enhanced facilities. It is anticipated that all projects will be delivered by the end of March 2025.