A Sinn Féin councillor has requested a review of opening hours at Derg Valley Leisure Centre in Castlederg. The facility added a wellness suite in January with CryoSpa, infrared therapy cabin and steam room.

At the February Health and Community Committee meeting, Councillor Caroline Devine reported 65 new memberships since January. She noted constituents sought longer hours to balance work and family schedules. Devine highlighted 3pm openings on Mondays and Fridays as restrictive.

Devine asked officers to review times and consider extensions on a trial basis to boost accessibility and usage, given the investment and higher membership fees.

Strategic director Barry O’Hagan explained historic reasons for current hours at council centres. He stated changes would raise maintenance, running and staff costs. O’Hagan said shift patterns require trade union and staff engagement, plus revenue budgets.

O’Hagan noted two or three similar requests district-wide for lesser-used centres. He committed to a full review with business cases and a detailed report to members.

UUP Alderman Derek Hussey affirmed demand for longer hours. He called for equitable access via customer surveys and a six-month trial, while acknowledging staff and union concerns, to serve ratepayers.