New £1.4 million build for Portadown youth centre

A new state of the art youth facility has officially opened in Portadown following funding from the Department of Education’s Voluntary Youth Capital Scheme.

The investment has been used to create a new purpose built facility for the YMCA, comprising a main sports hall with viewing gallery, multipurpose rooms and social areas as well as meeting, arts and craft spaces and a large outdoor landscaped space.

Speaking at an event to mark the official opening, Permanent Secretary, Derek Baker said, “I am pleased that the Department has been able to provide funding for this worthwhile project which will benefit the young people of Portadown.

“Voluntary Youth Capital Schemes such as the Portadown YMCA facility demonstrate our commitment to providing funding to enhance the delivery and performance of youth work to improve young people’s lives. The education of young people can be greatly enhanced through informal learning opportunities provided by youth work.” 

YMCA, National Support Officer, Darryn Causby said, “We are delighted to officially open this new state of the art facility and continue to provide a vital community service to young people in the area. This evening’s event is about celebrating this new space and the greatly enhanced opportunities it now offers young people to meet, make friends and take part in structured activities in a safe, modern environment.”

Portadown YMCA were successful in the funding application for a new purpose built youth facility under the Voluntary Youth Capital Scheme.

The Department, through the draft Children and Young People’s Strategy and in alignment with current Education and Youth Work policy, aims to empower children and young people and promote active citizenship. The Strategy recognises the value of youth work in improving outcomes for children and young people, and welcomes the opportunities youth clubs offer outside of school to give young people the chance to develop their abilities and talents.

Notes to editors: 

1. Bavan Construction from Mayobridge was appointed the main Contractor.
2. Follow us on Twitter @Education_NI and our Facebook page, Department of Education Northern Ireland.
3. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Telephone: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer number 028 9037 8110.

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