Council Installs Access Ramps in Bowling Greens Across District

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has installed access ramps at outdoor bowling greens across the district to help with inclusive community accessibility to the sport.
The initiative, funded through the Department for Communities (DfC) Access and Inclusion Programme and delivered in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, aims to increase participation in the sport through improved accessibility for current and future members. 

The installed ramps provide ease of entrance onto the outdoor bowling greens at Newcastle, Annalong, Kilkeel and Newry Bowling Clubs.  Steps between pavilions and playing greens have been replaced with sloping surfaces, enabling the installation of fixed nonslip mobility ramps with handrails and a drop-down plate to give ease of access to outdoor playing areas. These improvements will enable those who have disabilities including wheelchair and mobility aid users, or the elderly who may have lesser mobility, to access the outdoor bowling greens comfortably. 

Commenting on the new equipment, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said, “The Access and Inclusion Programme provides capital grant funding to promote a more inclusive society by enabling less abled and people with disabilities to participate more fully in arts, cultural and active recreation activities.  The installation of these ramps across the Newry, Mourne and Down District area will improve accessibility of the sport whilst promoting inclusive, sustainable, and accessible community initiatives. The Access and Inclusion Programme helps tackle social isolation, ensuring that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can participate in community activities.” 

The DfC grant, which also included funding for the installation of inclusive access doors in Newry Leisure Centre totalled £52,087.50. An allocation of £25,200 was provided for the ramp installation which was also part funded by Council to the value of £2,800. 

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Pete Byrne said, "This project is a testament to our commitment to creating an inclusive community where everyone can participate in and enjoy local activities.  The installation of these ramps will not only increase participation in the sport of bowling but will also promote social interaction and improve physical and mental wellbeing among our residents.

“The support from the Department for Communities has been instrumental in enhancing accessibility for all at our bowling clubs.  We are grateful for their commitment to reducing social isolation and improving accessibility across our district, particularly in rural areas."

Current President and active member of Newcastle Bowling Club, Eamon Lennon, who has recently celebrated his 100th birthday was among those checking out the installation of the new ramps. Eamon supports the installation of these ramps to bowling clubs across the area as they enable people who have limited mobility or a disability, to access the playing greens with ease.
Residents and visitors who would like to find out more about the sport or bowling club facilities across the district can do so by contacting leisureandsport@nmandd.org or by contacting the bowling clubs directly.