An historic cross-community venue in Newtownabbey officially reopened today (28th September), two years after it was severely damaged in an arson attack.

The renovation will allow Barron Hall, built in 1884 by Reverent Robert Barron, to resume its position as a hub for peace building and reconciliation work and the headquarters of the Community Relations Forum.

During extensive reconstruction, the building was stripped to its bare walls and carefully rebuilt as a modern facility to host a range of educational programmes and groups including Citizens Advice Bureau, Newtownabbey Senior Citizens Forum, youth groups and Irish dancing. The restoration was supported by the International Fund for Ireland and the Newtownabbey Borough through the European Union’s PEACE III Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body.

It is the second time in its 128 year history that Barron Hall has risen from the flames having also suffered fire damage in 1928. At different times in its history the building had also been used as a primary school and a courthouse.

Speaking at the event, International Fund for Ireland Board Member David Graham OBE said:

“Barron Hall reflects the strong spirit of peace building that lives in this area and the commitment to overcome all adversity. Established by a visionary peacemaker, the hall was first funded and built by the community and almost 130 years later they rallied in support when it was seriously damaged. The venue provides a valuable cross-community facility that respects the history and backgrounds of those who use it and underpins efforts to create a shared future. Barron Hall will have an important role in building secure and sustainable relationships that will benefit local communities for years to come.”

Mr Graham commended the good work that was being carried out by management and staff through additional support provided by the Fund via its Community Relations programme.

He also expressed a collective thanks to the international donors who have supported the work of the International Fund for Ireland for almost twenty-five years: namely, the United States of America, the European Union, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Kathy Wolff, Community Relations Forum Coordinator said:

“The fire left us all totally devastated. The hall is an outstanding facility and we’ve worked hard to build it up so it is a place that everyone can use. We’re grateful for the support our funders have provided, but also for the outpouring of support from individuals, organisations, groups and businesses in the community. During the rebuild we’ve received generous donations of equipment, time and the use of facilities. The community has inspired us to keep going and we look forward to sharing this wonderful centre with them for a very long time.”

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