The Termon Complex in Pettigo, a state of the art multi-use complex for sport and entertainment, has just opened its doors. The major facility, incorporates a number of different spaces within the building which will facilitate indoor sports, large meetings and conferences, drama productions and concerts. There is also a purpose built gym, an outdoor multi-use games area (MUGA), a new playschool with secure private playground, a new public playground, a community garden and horticultural tunnels, recycling space and car parking. The ADoPT office and Community Employment offices from Pettigo have also moved into new office space there.

The recent opening weekend saw The Borderline Players bring their very successful show “Cinderella” to the stage. The complex offers retractable tiered seating and blackout curtaining and the daytime sports hall can then be transformed into a black box theatre which can seat up to 400.

A visit and tour by the senior citizens of Pettigo/Tullyhommon has been paid to the complex, which has also hosted a Communion party. “We are delighted to get the building open for business,” commented the Complex Manager, Katherine Williams, who spoke about about the great activity and huge amount of work over the past month in getting organised for the opening. “I have a great team alongside me and the ADoPT committee, Termon Committee and Pettigo people themselves have been extremely welcoming and helpful,” acknowledged Katherine, who extended thanks for their support. She continued: “This project has created new jobs for seven people and we plan to offer a really great social, recreational and educational programme for all here.” The building project was a collaboration between the Planning and Economic Development Directorate of Donegal County Council, in partnership with Fermanagh District Council and the Association for the Development of Pettigo and Tullyhommon (ADoPT). The Termon Project has been awarded €8.3 million of EU support through the PEACE III Programme.

In addition, the project includes the revitalisation of the Termon riverbank with the development of a riverside park stretching from a new village gateway at Tullyhommon to a riverfront picnic area on the Pettigo side at the new Termon Complex. A newly constructed footbridge spans over the water and joins both communities.

Lots of activities have already been organised. There is a certified Walking Leader Training Workshop at 10am on Saturday, June 14, which will be followed at 2pm by the launch of the new tourism brochures and walking route cards. Refreshments will be served and everyone is extended a welcome. The purpose built gym has an open night on Thursday, June 12, from 6pm to 8pm. They are in the process of setting up an adults' and a children’s cycling club and there will be a Cycling Club meeting on Wednesday, June 4, starting at 7.30pm. Marian Lambe from Donegal Sports Partnership will be attending to facilitate and advise.

Jiving classes have also been organised with over 40 people signed up already. They are being held on Thursday nights, 8pm to 9.30pm, starting June 5.

An angling open day will be held on Saturday, June 28 at 11am for children to learn about fishing. All young people (aged 10+) are welcome; fishing rods and tackle will be supplied. A facilitator will be available on the day to provide an insight into fishing. All are welcome and refreshments will be served.

People are advised that they are free to call in to have a look around. A new website has also been set up with all upcoming event details and news http://termoncomplex.wordpress.com/