Work continues to repair Larne Leisure Centre after riots

Work is continuing to repair Larne Leisure Centre after it was damaged during rioting earlier this year.

Crowds took to the streets in Ballymena in early June  after the alleged sexual assault of a girl in the town.

Two 14-year-old boys, who spoke to a court through a Romanian interpreter, were charged with attempted rape.

A peaceful protest in the Co Antrim town about the alleged assault was followed by attacks on police and properties housing ethnic minorities, described by police as “racist thuggery”.

The disturbances lasted for several nights and spread to other areas of Northern Ireland.

They included an arson attack on Larne Leisure Centre, after rumours that some fleeing Ballymena had sheltered in the facility.

Almost two months on, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council said it will be a number of months before the facility is able to fully reopen.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Jackson Minford, praised the resilience and passion of staff at the leisure centre for reopening some areas, and seeking alternative locations for summer schemes for young people.

He said the team is working through each area to clean and repair any damage, and work is currently under way in the gym area.

“It is with thanks to Larne Grammar School that we have been able to facilitate around 70 kids each week in our summer scheme which has proven to be a great success,” he said.

“The Disability Camp in Market Yard, along with the Multi-Sports camp taking place in Sandy Bay, both in August, still have spaces available.

“Within the centre, a temporary reception area has been installed, the pools are fully operational with swimming lessons ongoing, and Larne Swim Club continues to meet regularly.

“The popular Prom Cafe has reopened and I would encourage you to call in for a coffee to support them.”