Demolition of Brandywell Sports Centre approved

Demolition of the Sports Centre has been proposed to make way for the Brandywell stadium redevelopment plans.

The Council’s Strategic Director Barry O’Hagan told the Council’s Health and Community Committee on Thursday that the £35,000 demolition was the preferred option, and would help improve the greyhound racing facilities planned as part of the overall Brandywell redevelopment.

A new sports centre is expected to be built as part of this in another location.

Councillors said they were happy that current users, including the Over the Hill Snooker Club and Oakleaf Boxing Club, have been fully consulted and relocated in alternative premises.

Sinn Fein Councillor Kevin Campbell said: “I think everybody knows that this building is way past its sell by date and it causes major problems.”

SDLP Councillor Shauna Cusack added: “If the user groups are happy we are happy.”

Her party colleague questioned the alternative accommodation for handball users and was told the new centre will have a dual purpose handball and squash ball arena.