BANBRIDGE AMATEUR BOXING CLUB - UPDATE TO UPGRADE Solar PV system

Banbridge ABC need to address the issues facing our members and users. The cost of living crisis and the needs of young people are our priorities. By reducing our running costs we make our service more cost effective for users. We want to install solar panels to reduce our energy costs. We want to reinvent our office space into a welcome youth and hospitality hub. We want to upgrade our heating system to electric heaters to benefit from the solar input. Our project will improve the operation of our club as a community service building.

The organisation, formed in 2006, meets local demand for boxing in Banbridge and surrounding areas offering competitive and non competitive routes, the club aim to be inclusive for all members of the community, offering fitness classes for adults and their established DIVERSITY group, for young people aged 10-19 with additional needs.
The project will provide funding for the installation of solar panels for sustainability and reduced running costs as well as re-configuring their underused office space into a youth well being hub.

Email received from Planning Officer confirming planning permission is not required.
Building Control approval provided.

By installing solar panels and upgrading to electric heating, the club will reduce running costs, allowing it to subsidise fees, invest in equipment and provide a programme of activities for the community. The transformation of underused office space into a youth-led hospitality and well being hub will provide a vital drop-in, counselling, and wellbeing centre, fostering independence and social connection. The project is youth-driven and volunteer-supported.

The need for the project was identified through a facility audit in January 2025, initiated by Banbridge ABC’s management committee. Extensive stakeholder consultation followed, including focus groups with members, parents, volunteers, coaches, and the DIVERSITY group, alongside feedback gathered via social media. Young people expressed strong support for environmental sustainability and transforming the underused office into a youth hub. After exploring cost-saving and engagement options, the club concluded that installing solar panels and upgrading electric heating would be the most effective way to reduce running costs and enhance youth provision

The project will enhance both the social and natural environment of Banbridge ABC by creating a more welcoming, inclusive, and sustainable community space.
The installation of a solar system will significantly reduce the club’s carbon footprint and promote green energy use. These improvements will lower running costs and allow reinvestment into the club’s facilities and programmes. The transformation of underused space into a youth-designed hospitality hub will improve the building’s aesthetic appeal and functionality, offering a vibrant, purpose built area for socialising, learning, and wellbeing.