About Us
Kilcooley Community Forum situated at the heart of Kilcooley estate in Bangor, County Down, Northern Ireland, the third largest housing estate in the province, is made up of two representatives from all the constituted groups active within the community. The first rep automatically sits on the Management Committee while both sit on the Full Forum.
There are a number of associations, services, projects, and ongoing programmes running in Kilcooley which are open to residents of all ages and abilities. If you wish to get involved with any of the activities you simply need to contact the relevant group.
Community Involvement/Participation
Each group mentioned, plus other newer groups, carry out various projects and programmes throughout the year and are always looking for volunteers. The wellbeing of the community depends upon the support and effort of the residents. As a resident you can participate and gain much by contributing your skills, time and commitment while, at the same time, making the area a better place to live and enjoy.
The Square Centre
Tel: 02891-453804 - Based at 6 Kilcooley Square, this is a drop-in cafe where meals are served at nominal fees. 'New 2 U' clothing and other items can also be purchased.
A person-centred counselling service is available, as is a community befriending scheme.
The Square Centre is run by the Kilcooley Presbyterian Church as part of its Board of Social Witness Outreach.
Contact: Mrs Daine McIlwrath
Tenant Support Project
Tel: 02891-470666 - Established in 2004 this initiative of the Kilcooley Community Forum aims to encourage both new and existing tenants to maintain their tenancy by providing support and assistance which allows them to become actively involved within the community. The TSP also provides mental health support for people in the community living with mental illness.
Contact: Joanie Brown (Manager) 02891-470666
St Columbas Church of Ireland
Tel: 02891-477182 - A satellite of Bangor Abbey the church is attended by people from within and outside the community. It is actively involved in community life and has representatives involved in many groups and programmes in the area.
Contact: Rev Adrian McLaughlin
Bangor Alternatives
Tel: 028-91857812 - A community-led, government accredited restorative justice project, Bangor Alternatives works to redirect young people away from crime and address anti-social behaviour. The Project also provides support to victims, allowing them to express hurt and concerns. It continues to develop new preventative measures to involve young people in active citizenship roles.
Bangor Alternatives also works in a cross community capacity with groups from across West Belfast and is part of the Northern Ireland Alternatives group.
Contact: Jim Martin or Jim Rea
Kilcooley Primary School
Tel: 02891-270140 - Over the years the Kilcooley Primary School has not only been a place of learning excellence for children of the community but it has also developed a community-orientated vision whereby it provides a number of facilities ranging from a Nursery School to classroom provision for the Women's Education and Development Group and First Friends Playgroup.
Contact: Headmistress Pauline Brown
Kilcooley Presbyterian Church
Tel: 02891-460250 - Situated on Drumhirk Drive the Church not only offers religious services but also has a wider remit within the community. There are a number of activities at the Church such as the BB, GB, Lunch Club, Indoor Bowling as well as other programmes.
The Minister is Rev Gary Aitcheson : 02891-460250
Kilcooley Over 50's Club
Tel: c/o 02891-479424 - The Over 50's Club is currently the largest group in the area. It is very active in organising projects and social events for its members. At present there is a waiting list to join the group.
They have an extensive social calendar and an event programme surpassed by none.
Contact: Jean Leckey
Kilcooley Older People's Panel
Tel: 02891-479424 - KOPP address issues affecting senior citizens whilst also running various projects such as intergeneration work and organising events and outings for their members. The current Chairman is Mr Ron Eggleston who also represents the group on the UK wide Better Government for Older People.
Contact Ron on: 02891-479424
Kilcooley Community Centre
Tel: 02891-478987 - Provided by North Down Borough Council the Centre on Owenroe Drive is a focal point in the community and is widely used for various events such as a facility for those wishing to train and/or keep fit, an Over 50s Club, plus numerous youth activities. The Centre can be booked for private and public functions by contacting Bangor Town Hall.
For booking contact:02891-270371
Centre Manager Contact: Stephen Archibald
Kilcooley Women's Centre
Tel: 02891-478292 - The Women's Centre facilitates women wanting to return to education and operates out of Kilcooley Primary School. It has three classrooms equipped with a computer suite, children's creche, social room and, to date, provides over 400 learning places with a wide and varied number of education courses.
contact: Carol Savage
Dufferin Pikers
Dufferin Pikers is the local fishing group which holds meetings in the Forum office every fortnight during winter months and plans fishing trips for the fishing season. This group works with people of all ages seeking to promote the sportmanship of fishing.
You can contact Jim Martin or Donald McClenaghan at the Forum office on 02891-479424 or by e-mailing us at kilcooleyforum@btconnect.com
Citizen's Advice Surgery
The North Down Citizen's Advice Bureau provides a twice weekly surgery at the Forum office.
Monday & Thursdays 10.30am -12.30pm
Carol Andrews can be contacted on: 02891-470817
Kilcooley Community Action Group
Established in 2006 the Kilcooley Community Action Group works to improve the quality of life for residents by providing numerous community activities particularly relating to young people. The KCAG is making a big impact in the community with its various projects and initiatives.
