Antrim and Newtownabbey Council leisure facilities update

The decision has been taken following last week’s lockdown announcement by the Northern Ireland Executive due to the ongoing Covid pandemic.

The borough council says that temporary closures will include its fitness suites and classes, swimming pools, golf courses and driving ranges, running track, outdoor pitches and racquet sports.

The local authority has stated: “Due to ongoing uncertainty regarding the opening of the council’s leisure facilities, membership fees will remain suspended until further notice.”

Meanwhile, household recycling centres in the borough will be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day but will be open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

An appointment is required for the facility in Crumlin and O’Neill Road in Glengormley.

In a bid to reduce pressure on O’Neill Road Recycling Centre, the council will provide a bin lorry at the Valley Leisure Centre carpark from Monday, December 28 until December 31, from 9.00 am until 5.00 pm.

This Christmas, the council is supporting the Northern Ireland Hospice which is working with Menzies Distribution to collect real Christmas trees from residents within the borough in return for a donation which will go towards the work of the hospice.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Jim Montgomery said: “As we approach the Christmas season, I want to encourage everyone to keep doing their bit for the environment and recycle as much waste as possible.

“Our waste crews will be continuing to deliver the essential bin collection services during the forthcoming restrictions and I would remind our residents to do all they can to keep them safe and wipe down bin handles before and after leaving them out.”

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter

Click here to read: Essential bin services to continue in Newtownabbey during lockdown.

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