Mourne’s Sinn Féin Councillor Willie Clarke has welcomed the decision by Newry Mourne and Down District Council to carry out a refurbishment of the Newcastle Bowling Club clubhouse when the season ends on 8 September.
Cllr Clarke said: “I attended a meeting between Mourne’s DEA councillors and Bowling club members in March and there was a consensus at this meeting that the current facility was not fit for purpose and needed refurbishment.
“Following this meeting, Council officers engaged with the club in relation to what improvements were required to bring the clubhouse up to a standard. This was on the basis as to what was acceptable to club members, including the refurbishment of toilets, the kitchen and a meeting space. The costs of the refurbishment will be around £11,000.”
Cllr Clarke added: “We will continue to work in partnership to ensure that bowling is supported and promoted and is given the recognition and facilities it deserves.
It is extremely important to have adequate facilities to attract new members to the Newcastle Bowling Club. This refurbishment will improve the facility for users and visitors alike.
“As part of the Council’s new Sports’ Facility Strategy we will be prioritising the refurbishment and replacement of all council-owned pavilions, and Newcastle Bowling pavilion will be included on this list.
“Any proposed new build will also be incorporated into the Council’s Economic Regeneration and Tourism departments Master Plan for Castle Park in Newcastle.”
