A Strabane Community Group's New Beginning
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Last looks at the old Springhill Park Community Centre
For 28 years, the Springhill Park Area Residents and Youth Association (SPARYA) has been a cornerstone of community life in Strabane, and at the heart of every one of those years has been its volunteers.
Last Friday marked an emotional milestone for the group, as they said goodbye to their much-loved community building for the final time. But far from being an ending, their farewell event signalled an exciting new chapter: a brand-new, purpose-built, £1 million community facility is now under construction and is expected to open in the summer of 2027.
With only two paid members of staff, SPARYA has always relied on the dedication of its volunteers, from the committee members to youth workers, and everyone who turns up week in, week out to keep the doors open and the programmes running. As the centre’s manager, Brian McNamee, put it, "Springhill Park couldn't exist without the generosity of its volunteers."
Some of the Area kIds having Fun in the Old Building
Brian has been part of the Association for 24 of its 28 years, starting out as a youth worker and working his way up to becoming manager. He described the old building as having a warm, welcoming environment for everyone who came through the doors, something he's determined to carry forward into the new premises.
"It's mainly that warm, welcoming environment I'll remember - and I'll make sure that continues in the new building. I just want everyone who comes in to feel welcome and at home. That's what our volunteers have always made possible, and that's what we'll keep doing."
— Brian McNamee, SPARYA
While the old building has now been demolished, the work of the Association continues without pause. SPARYA has relocated to temporary premises at 46 Main Street, Strabane - a move funded by the group members themselves - where they will continue their programmes for the next 12 to 14 months.
Fittingly for Volunteer’s Week, last Friday's farewell gathering brought together not just staff and committee members, but councillors, community partners, and residents, reminding everyone of just how many people this group touches.
Supporting Communities' Community Development Officer, Nuala Kildunne, was among those who came to mark the occasion:
NUala and Brian Pose for pictures as they say goodbye to the old Building
"SPARYA has been an incredible asset to Springhill Park for nearly three decades. What makes it truly special, though, isn't the building; it's the people. The volunteers who give their time so generously are the lifeblood of this community, and it's a privilege to support them. The new facility will give them the platform they deserve, and I have no doubt they'll fill it with the same warmth and energy they always have."
— Nuala Kildunne, Community Development Officer, Supporting Communities
Drawings of The New Centre due to open Next Summer!
The new building promises much more than just higher ceilings, something Brian is really looking forward to, noting it will finally allow them to host bouncy castles for children's parties, opening up a vital new income stream for the group. More broadly, the new facility will give SPARYA the stability and self-sufficiency to serve the Springhill Park community for generations to come.
This Volunteer’s Week, SPARYA is a wonderful reminder of what communities can achieve when people give their time, energy, and commitment. If you'd like to call in and say hello, the team at 46 Main Street would love to see you.
The kettle is always on.
Find more about SPARYA on Facebook!
