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Strategic Theme 07 :: Arts, Culture, Leisure and Sport

"The opening of the new cinema and theatre complex in Banbridge and the visual arts facility in Gilford Mill will raise the profile of the arts in the District and increase the opportunities to participate." Rune Naeri, Chairman, Banbridge District Arts Committee

Overview :: Arts, culture, leisure and sport have an important role to play in improving the quality of life for the local community in the Banbridge District. However, expenditure on the arts in the Banbridge area is relatively low compared to other Council areas. The arts sector has a low profile and attendance at arts events tends to be poor. However, a new modern leisure centre opened by the Council in October 2001 has proved to be very popular. Similarly, the new multi-screen cinema and theatre complex opened in Banbridge in March 2004 promises to be a popular entertainment attraction for all age groups. The most popular sports activities are walking, swimming and keeping fit.

Challenges :: The key challenges facing the areas of arts, culture, leisure and sport within the Banbridge District include low spend, general apathy towards the arts sector, maintaining a viable arts/theatre complex, developing partnership opportunities, promoting activities, increasing the number of events, making event venues more accessible, generating more support for volunteers and supporting excellence in all activities.

Strategy :: Co-ordinate the development of a vibrant arts, culture, leisure and sports sector in the Banbridge area that is open and accessible to all and improves the quality of life for all people.

Objectives ::

Develop a programme of events and activities to encourage greater participation of the local community in arts, culture, leisure and sport.
Ensure that facilities are high quality, accessible and affordable to all.
Improve marketing and promotion of facilities and activities in the Banbridge area.

Current Actions ::

Develop a new cinema and theatre complex.
Provide a visual arts facility within Gilford Mill.
Re-instate Gilford Mill Pond and provide a play area.
Provide a new bowls/tennis pavilion in Banbridge.
Appoint a full-time Sports Development Officer.
Enhance all play areas throughout the District.
Implement the Youth Action Drama project funded by The Bridge Partnership and the Rural Development Council.

Future Actions ::

Provide a Community Centre in Gilford.
Extend Rathfriland Community Centre.
Provide a new bowls pavilion in Rathfriland and Dromore.
Provide more public footpaths in the District.

Strategic Themes ::

Strategic Theme 01 ::
Environment

Strategic Theme 02 ::
Agriculture and Rural Development

Strategic Theme 03 ::
Infrastructure and Planning

Strategic Theme 04 ::
Economic Development and Tourism

Strategic Theme 05 ::
Lifelong Learning

Strategic Theme 06 ::
Health and Community Well Being

Strategic Theme 07 ::
Arts, Culture, Leisure and Sport

Strategic Theme 08 ::
Community Development and Reconciliation

Strategic Theme 09 ::
Young People and Children

The Bridge Partnership, Civic Building, Downshire Road, Banbridge, Co. Down BT32 3JY
T: 028 4066 0644 F: 028 4066 0601 E: info@bridgepartnership.org.uk W: www.bridgepartnership.org.uk
© Banbridge District Local Strategy Partnership Limited 2004 | Disclaimer