Kennedy FitzGerald were appointed as Architects and Lead Consultant for this project following competitive interview in 2002.  The building was conceived as a gateway building to Downpatrick, responding to the unique site context of immediate urban and country parkland. A strong architectural identity and considered elevations established a bold civic statement for those approaching from both the town and the rural countryside.

An innovative approach to the design which layers specific accommodation together in a stacked compact design, reduces the footprint and allowed the existing leisure centre to remain open during the construction phase of the project.

This new Centre comprises a mixture of dry and wet sport facilities as well as ancillary accommodation over five floors including a basement for plant and pool under croft.

The wet accommodation includes a 25m by 13m British Standard pool, 7m by 13m teaching pool with movable floor, spa pool, relaxation area and associated changing.

The dry accommodation includes a large fitness suite, group cycling studio, 4 court sports hall, multipurpose room and handball court as well as associated changing and storage.

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