As the Ballycastle Leisure Centre project reaches the end of its first year on site, substantial progress has been made across key elements of the build.
Construction began in February 2025, with early works focused on opening up the site and improving access. This included road works on Quay Road to create a new crossing point and filter lane, alongside site clearance to prepare for the main construction phase.
Over the past twelve months, momentum has continued to build. The swimming pool tank has been excavated and constructed, a significant structural milestone. In December 2025, the project achieved another key marker with the completion of the Leisure Centre steelwork, allowing internal and external blockwork and roofing to commence. Beyond the main building, wider site works have progressed in parallel, including pitch perimeter walking paths and drainage.
Speaking following a recent site visit, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Oliver McMullan, praised the pace and quality of the construction: “I had the pleasure of visiting the site of the new Ballycastle Leisure Centre in December and was truly impressed by the progress being made. It’s fantastic to see the works advancing so well – this facility will be hugely important to the people of Ballycastle and the surrounding area.”
The project also earned an exceptional 45/45 score in its second Considerate Constructors Scheme audit, securing full marks across Community, Environment and Workforce categories. This demonstrates the team’s continued commitment to achieving best practice standards.
The Next Twelve Months
The next twelve months will see the project transition from structure to spaces, with a focus on completing the building envelope and internal fit-out:
• Completion of the Leisure Centre shell
• Internal building fabric and services installation
• External works including a new pump track, car park and inclusive play park
These enhancements will complement the Centre’s core facilities, creating a welcoming, accessible destination for sport, play and wellbeing.
A Strategic Investment for Ballycastle
The Ballycastle Leisure Centre represents a major investment in local health and wellbeing infrastructure. The project is being supported through Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council investment alongside a significant financial contribution from the UK Government.
With the structural frame now complete, internal trades mobilised, and external amenities advancing, the project remains firmly on course to deliver a state-of-the-art facility that will serve Ballycastle and surrounding communities for years to come.