New Urban Sports Park Opens in Downpatrick Following Major Investment

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has welcomed the launch of a new Urban Sports Park in Downpatrick, saying it is a major addition for the town.

Funded by over £439,000 from his Department with additional support from the Council, Dunleath Urban Sports Park will provide young people and families with an exciting new space for cycling, skateboarding and wheeled sports.

The project, which was delivered by the Council in partnership with the Department for Communities (DfC), will provide an inclusive space for sports enthusiasts of all skill levels aged 8 and over, transforming part of Dunleath Park into a dynamic new outdoor destination featuring an 80-metre pump track with banked turns and undulations, and a 400m² skatepark with ramps, grind rails and trick features.

The significant investment forms part of the wider regeneration of Downpatrick, designed to attract visitors, strengthen links with the town centre and nearby Downpatrick Leisure Centre, and encourage healthier, more active lifestyles. Minister Lyons said, “I am pleased that my Department has been able to support the redevelopment of Dunleath Urban Sports Park. This investment has delivered a high-quality space that will promote health and wellbeing, encourage active lifestyles, and draw more people into Downpatrick town centre. It’s a project that will deliver long-lasting benefits for the whole community.”

The project was identified as a priority through the Downpatrick Living High Streets initiative and championed by the Downpatrick Regeneration Working Group. Together, these partners have ensured the new Urban Sports Park reflects community needs whilst contributing to the ongoing regeneration of the town.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, “This project is a great example of how partnership working and collaboration can deliver real results for our district. Dunleath Urban Sports Park is a vibrant, modern facility that will support our young people, encourage outdoor activity and contribute to the ongoing regeneration of Downpatrick. We are proud to see this vision become a reality.”

Mal McGrady Chair of the Downpatrick Regeneration Working Group, commented, “The opening of Dunleath Urban Sports Park marks an important milestone in our efforts to revitalise Downpatrick. It not only provides young people with a safe and inclusive space to enjoy but also strengthens the town centre, helping to build a more connected community.”

The Dunleath Urban Sports Park is now officially open to the public and is already welcoming skateboarders, skaters, BMX riders and scooter users.