Larne Leisure Centre repairs underway as Summer Schemes continue at alternative venues

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Council, Councillor Jackson Minford meets the management team at Larne Leisure Centre (l-r)  David Taylor, Duty Manager, Kevin Thomas, Leisure Centre Manager and William Glover, Duty Manager

Nearly two months on from the incident that caused significant disruption to Larne Leisure Centre, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has provided an update on ongoing repair works and efforts to maintain community services.

In a statement issued this week, the Council confirmed that it will be “a number of months before the centre is fully reopened”, with each area being carefully assessed for damage and undergoing necessary repairs.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, praised the dedication of the staff involved in the recovery process.

“The resilience and passion of the team at Larne Leisure Centre must be commended as they work to reopen all areas of the facility as quickly as possible – seeking alternative locations for our summer schemes to ensure the impact on our young people is minimal.”

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Council, Councillor Jackson Minford with Larne Leisure Centre Lifeguard, Daniel McWilliams – Daniel is also a part-time firefighter he was on duty the night of the fire and attended the centre when the fire service was called out

Thanks to support from the local community, particularly Larne Grammar School, the Council has managed to continue its popular summer provision for children.

“It is with thanks to Larne Grammar School that we have been able to facilitate around 70 kids each week in our summer scheme which has proven to be a great success,” said Councillor Minford.

Spaces remain available for additional upcoming activities, including the Disability Camp at Market Yard and the Multi-Sports Camp at Sandy Bay, both taking place in August.

Despite ongoing restoration work, several parts of the leisure centre have already resumed operations.

“Within the centre, a temporary reception area has been installed, the pools are fully operational with swimming lessons ongoing and Larne Swim Club continues to meet regularly,” the Mayor confirmed.

Additionally, the centre’s well-loved Prom Café has now reopened. Councillor Minford encouraged residents to lend their support:

“I would encourage you to call in for a coffee to support them.”

Efforts are continuing to bring the remaining areas of the facility back into use.

“The team is working through each area to carefully clean and repair any damage for reopening, with work ongoing in the gym area at present,” the Mayor added.

The Council has pledged to keep the public informed as progress continues and thanked the community for its patience and support throughout the restoration process.