The Group has just completed a major project with the construction of new premises on a new site on the Castleroe Road, just South of the Camus Lane Junction. Work commenced in Autumn 2008, and occupation was given to RDA Coleraine on 14th August, in good time for the 2009/10 session. At a well attended ceremony in the new Arena on 18th August 2009 Gary King, of the builders, J A Gamble of Strabane, 'Handed Over the Keys' to the Mayor of Coleraine, Councillor Sandy Gilkinson, who received them on behalf of RDA Coleraine. Also present was Robert Ross, representing R Robinson & Son, Architects & Consulting Engineers & Brendan O'Hara, Cogan & Shackleton, Electrical & Heating & Ventilating Engineers. Also in attendance were Alan Strong, a Member of the SportNI Board, the major funders, and Alan Shannon, Permanent Secretary of the Department of Social Development, whose Modernisation fund made a significant grant which paid for the 'surface material' and other equipment for the new facilities.

The project includes the establishment of a Sports Club for persons with/and without a Disability, providing access to a range of sports, overseen by a new Sports Development Officer, in post since December 2009 This will be called the OWLS Sports Club (Opportunities without limits)

The fundraising for the Building Project was organised by the Committee, assisted by local Councillors and the members of the Community. A range of events was organised locally and regionally, were well supported by friends of the RDA and the general public. Their efforts raised sufficient funds to purchase a 13.5 acre site. Bids were made for grant-aid to other appropriate bodies. 

The Building Sport Lottery Fund and Coleraine Borough Council have provided the major funding of the project, and the DSD Modernisation Fund has supplied a grant to equip the new facility.

The Project has been greatly enhanced by the input from a Development Advisory Committee from local Business, Industry & the Community.

A large number attended the 'Handover Ceremony' on 18th August 2009.

The regional & local press gave excellent coverage - for further details and pictures - see the Coleraine Chronicle and the Coleraine Times - both published 25th August 2009, and a report was also published on the National RDA website.

With the appointment of our new Sports Development Officer, an imminent addition to our provision will be the formation of The OWLS Sports Club. 

A bid has been submitted for our next major project - a 12.5 km Off-road track. To view this you will need a password, which will be supplied to bone fide applicants who email RDA Coleraine.