Enniskillen Leisure Centre Set for £70m Revamp Amid Controversy

16 April 2025

Major Redevelopment Approved
A 49-year-old Northern Ireland leisure centre is set to undergo a major £70 million redevelopment to create a state of the art sports and wellbeing facility on its existing site.

Project Details
The Fermanagh Lakeland Forum will undergo a £70 million refurbishment, funded in part by the UK Government's Levelling Up Fund. Despite some controversy over the increased costs, the project was approved by the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council.

Construction and Features
The new centre will feature an eight-lane swimming pool, fully equipped gym, community spaces, a play park, sports pitch, cycling trails, and more. The construction is expected to disrupt regular activities at the center, but alternative provisions will be available for users.

Opposition and Concerns
Not all parties are supportive of the redevelopment, with some citing financial burden and lack of transparency about costs to ratepayers. The Ulster Unionist Council Group has expressed disappointment over the decision to proceed with the project.

Closing Thoughts
Despite the opposition, the Council emphasizes that the redevelopment will provide top-tier leisure facilities for the community and set a new standard for leisure provision in Northern Ireland and beyond.