Extra €25,000 funding secured for Orchard Community Centre
By Claire Christensen
LAST week, The Echo reported that Dublin City Council had voted unanimously to expand and improve the Orchard Community Centre in Cherry Orchard.
Councillor Daithí Doolan has since confirmed that funding has been secured for the improvements, along with an additional €25,000 to run the centre, allowing it to become more accessible and available to local residents, groups, and services.
One of these groups is the Cherry Orchard Boxing Club, which was founded in 2011 and has more than 75 active members.
According to Cllr Doolan, the improvements “will allow the club to upgrade the excellent service they provide” and will increase their club membership.
He added: “Anyone who knows Cherry Orchard knows the boxing club provides a superb service to the community; a commitment to fund the club will be welcomed by all.”
The Cherry Orchard Boxing Club would be housed inside the upgraded Orchard Centre’s multi-use sports hall extension.
Club co-manager Declan Baird said that they hold practice four days a week, and have children’s sessions every Wednesday and Sunday.
The club welcomes adults and children (aged nine and up) of all skill levels, and has club meetings based on age and experience.
Councillor Vincent Jackson said: “The club is a very positive force in the community; I’ve absolutely no doubt it will have a huge part in making this [development] a success.”
