A NEW £35 million Co Armagh leisure complex has moved a step closer towards completion.
The new South Lake Leisure Centre in Craigavon, due to open in autumn 2020, recently marked a key stage in the construction process with the final bolts moved into place on the roof of the new centre.
The ‘topping out’ ceremony – which marks a key stage in construction where the building reaches its highest point – kicks off a fresh workstream of internal and external work that will rapidly gather pace ahead of its grand opening launch next year.
Once complete the new South Lake Leisure Centre will be among Northern Ireland’s leading leisure centres and will incorporate; an impressive eight-lane,50-metre swimming pool, a 1,000m2 gym – the largest anywhere on the island of Ireland, as well as an extensive outdoor water sports provision.
The new complex, which is largest capital investment ever undertaken by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, will also house; an eight-court sports hall, studios, activity rooms, soft play area, health and beauty suite; and a café.
Warren Wright, regional director of Belfast-based contractors, Farrans Construction said they are pleased to reach a pivotal build milestone in the project.
"From design through to development, we’re also incredibly proud to be involved in the creation of one of the best health and sporting facilities anywhere in these islands which when complete will be available to all," he said.
“We have an excellent construction track record and I’m pleased to report that we are well on track to open next year.”
Construction of the new complex has created hundreds of jobs, with around 500 fulltime workers signed up to complete the build. Other local employers already involved in the scheme include; Callan Construction, D&K Systems, Taranto Piling, GM Wall Tracking and J&C Agencies.
