The Down Arts Centre switched on its lights on Thursday 1 December for a two week period only, the official opening scheduled to take place in early 2012.

Down District Council Chairman, Councillor Dermot Curran welcomed the chairperson of Downpatrick Chamber, Tracey Quail; the chairperson of Newcastle Chamber, Audrey Byrne; and the Chairman of Ballynahinch Chamber, Mark Murnin to the new Down Arts Centre and guided them on a tour of the new facilities.

Councillor Curran said, “The newly refurbished Down Arts Centre will not only provide a comprehensive range of resources and spaces for arts related events and activities, but the versatile venue now created offers the very best in conference, meeting and exhibition amenities. Set in Downpatrick’s town centre, it is very accessible, only a short walk from the bus station or a number of the nearby car parks. The building which is now more than an arts centre is the ideal venue for business conferencing, meetings and seminars.”

“We are looking forward to the official re-opening in the New Year, and to working with businesses in Down district and beyond to attract business related events to our County town.”

For further details about hiring out the Down Arts Centre for an occasion, please call 028 4461 0747 or email downartscentre@downdc.gov.uk