Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has approved plans to demolish Killylea Orange Hall on Main Street in Killylea and construct a new two-storey community and sports centre. The decision came at the planning services committee meeting on Wednesday.

Senior planning officer Trudy Chapman recommended approval. She stated the proposal involves removing the existing structure and building a larger facility on an enlarged site, including a small area of open space at the rear. Officers found no unacceptable impact on nearby homes.

No third-party objections were received, and all consultations supported the plans. The project complies with the Area Plan and relevant policies. One tree at the front of the site will be removed.

DUP Councillor Alan Mulholland proposed approval, seconded by Councillor Kyle Moutray. The new centre will expand floorspace from 226 square metres to 973 square metres.

Ground floor features include a lobby, offices, kitchen, changing rooms with showers, referee room, and a main hall with two indoor sports courts. The first floor will have three meeting rooms, a minor hall for 20 people, and additional toilets, accessed by stairs and lift.

The facility will include rooflights, solar panels, nine rear parking spaces, and a front disabled bay with ramp. KEYS (Killylea Empowering Youth Scheme) proposed the plans over two years ago, initially recommended for refusal in November 2024 but approved after revisions.

A January 2025 consultancy by Paradigm Niche Consulting, based on 800 surveys, identified needs for youth activities, elderly support, sports, and health services in the village.