Education Minister cuts the sod on the new £20million Castle Tower School, Ballymena

Education Minister John O’Dowd has visited the site of the new Castle Tower Special School in Ballymena as building work commences. A new build for Castle Tower costing circa £20million was approved by the Minister in June 2012.

Speaking at the site of the new build at Trostan Avenue in Ballymena, where he cut the first sod, the Minister said:

“It is a great pleasure to be here today to join the celebrations for the new school build. The start of construction work on this site represents an investment of circa £20million by my Department and this financial input will have a major impact on the school and the community and create many positive outcomes for both. Building work has commenced and over the coming months your new school will take shape.”

Castle Tower was established in September 2007 following the amalgamation of three special schools in Ballymena. The new build for the school includes the provision of a hydrotherapy pool and medical and therapy rooms integrated into the design, all of which will offer the pupils facilities to promote their health and well-being.

The Minister thanked the Principal, the Board of Governors and staff and pupils as well as the Education Authority and the architect and construction company. He said:

“This is an exciting period for all the pupils and staff. I have no doubt the new facilities will enhance the learning experience and ensure that Castle Tower is well equipped to deliver the curriculum for now and for future generations to come.

“Improving the schools’ estate remains a key priority for me. I will continue to seek the necessary funds to ensure that this area of work gets the attention it deserves.”

Notes to editors: 

1. Castle Tower School is a special controlled school catering for 3-19 year old pupils with moderate to complex needs.
2. The Department of Education’s ‘Education Works’ campaign promotes the value of education. This year’s campaign aims to ensure that parents have information on schooling and that they are aware of the steps they can take to ‘Get Involved’ and support their teenager in achieving good outcomes at school. Watch out for the ads on television, radio and outdoor locations. The campaign highlights the vital role families can play in helping children do well at school and improve their life chances. Visit nidirect - Education Works for more information or watch the TV ad on the Department’s YouTube channel.
3. See photos from the Department of Education in our Flickr collection.
4. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 99 715 440, and your call will be returned.

Share this page