Ballymena MLA backs campaign to ‘Free Court 3’ and secure future of local Squash

North Antrim MLA Jon Burrows and Constituency Manager Colin Crawford with members of Ballymena Squash Club

North Antrim MLA Jon Burrows has given his backing to Ballymena Squash Club’s campaign to “Free Court 3” and secure the long-term future of squash in the town.

Mr Burrows met with members of the recently formed club, which has grown rapidly since its launch in January 2024, now boasting a membership of 40 enthusiastic players.

“I was delighted to meet with members of Ballymena Squash Club, which was formed in January 2024 and now boasts a fantastic 40-strong membership of passionate players,” said Mr Burrows.

“The club meets every Monday evening at Ballymena Leisure Centre, with league games on Tuesdays and Thursdays — a clear sign that squash is thriving locally.”

During the meeting, the MLA and his Constituency Manager Colin Crawford received a petition signed by over 440 local residents, urging Mid and East Antrim Borough Council to secure squash facilities in Ballymena and support the sport’s ongoing development.

“I’ve committed to raising this matter directly with the Council’s Chief Executive, Ms Valerie Watts, to ensure that the strong local interest in squash is recognised and supported,” Mr Burrows confirmed.

Squash Court 3 currently being used for storage

However, the MLA also highlighted a key issue at Seven Towers Leisure Centre, where one of the centre’s three squash courts is currently being used for document storage.

“This is simply not good enough,” Mr Burrows said.

“Sporting facilities should be for sport. The club is often limited to just two courts, which restricts opportunities for players and reduces potential revenue for the council.”

Mr Burrows has now formally presented the petition to the Chief Executive and made strong representations for action to “Free Court 3.”

Mr Burrows presented Chief Executive of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Valerie Watts with a petition calling for action

“Having seen the situation myself, it’s clear there must be a solution. Documents can be digitised, destroyed, or stored elsewhere — but they don’t belong in a squash court,” he added.

Looking to the future, Mr Burrows said it was vital that squash remains part of Ballymena’s future sports strategy, particularly as plans for a new leisure centre are being developed.

“Squash needs to be part of the future of sport in Ballymena. The energy and enthusiasm of Ballymena Squash Club is inspiring, and I’ll continue to lobby until Court 3 is cleared and reopened,” he said.

He concluded with a direct call to the public:

“Please show your support for this campaign — let’s Free Court 3! Common sense is needed more than ever in Northern Ireland.”