Changing times in Poleglass Sports Zone

Date published: 9 November 2017

The provision of the four 25-person changing room facility will transform the ability of local people, sporting clubs and schools to make use of the state of the art pitch at Sally Gardens. The changing facility has been designed and constructed to include accessible provision in all areas. It has changing rooms, toilets and showers for four teams and for two referees. It also includes an attendant’s office and an accessible toilet. This investment of £709,000 in the construction of a changing pavilion follows a previous investment of £1.1m in 2016 when a new 3G pitch was completed at Sally Gardens. The new pavilion, which was opened by local boxer, James Tennyson, will make the pitch more accessible for all, including the ability to facilitate competitive use.

Commenting on the investment, Maggie Smith, Director of Community Empowerment at the Department for Communities said: “The Department is delighted to be able to work with Belfast City Council and Poleglass Community Association to put in place this accessible resource for Sally Gardens.

“I look forward to seeing the local community make even greater use of this great Sports Zone in Poleglass. The investment demonstrates the value the Department places in working with local communities and local Councils to regenerate areas such as this and to provide the facilities that people here deserve.”

Councillor Deirdre Hargey, Chair of Belfast’s City Council’s Strategic Policy and Resources Committee said: “We are delighted to support the development of the Sports Zone at Sally Gardens. We are committed to improving the facilities for all those living in the city as part of our £105m leisure transformation programme. We believe these new facilities will contribute greatly to the health and wellbeing of our residents now and for future generations, as well as having a significant role in the regeneration of the local area.”

Speaking at the opening Michael George, Chair of the Association said: “The 3G pitch has already proved popular with people from the area and beyond, attracting major sporting events such as a number of cross border and cross community football tournaments, However the changing pavilion will allow us to further expand, hosting competitive events in soccer, GAA and rugby. We appreciate the support of Belfast City Council and the Department for Communities in providing the funding for this facility. By working together, we are building an open, healthy and confident community.”