Givan announces £165,000 funding boost for Lisburn and Dundonald

Date published: 28 September 2016

This latest Revitalisation funding will enhance and complement works already undertaken across the Council area and will include:-

• The development of a ‘Souk’ Style Market at Haslem’s Lane in Lisburn City Centre;
• New signage across Lisburn and Dundonald; and
• Improvements to the former Bowling Green in Moat Park in Dundonald creating an event space that will host concerts and family events.

Minister Givan said: “I am delighted to be able to announce this further funding for Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council which will target the commercial core of both Lisburn and Dundonald.

“It will support the local traders in Lisburn City Centre by helping to promote the evening economy, attracting visitors and residents into the newly renovated city centre. The new market will also be a very welcome addition to the City Centre. It will no doubt soon become a place of lively trading and a focal point for socialising in the City Centre.

“The development of an event space in Dundonald will be a welcome development for the local community. The provision of this space through the investment I am announcing today is as a result of their feedback where they stated the need for a more appropriate event space in the village.

"This consultative approach has been key to developing this unique programme of works and demonstrates how well the new Council is working as a team to deliver initiatives which will benefit all of its residents.”

The Revitalisation Project was developed following input from local independent traders. The Department for Communities (DfC) is providing £115,000 towards this project, with a further £50,000 coming from Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council who will manage the individual contracts in each area.

The Minister continued: “Officials from my Department and Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council have worked very closely with local traders to develop this tailored package for Lisburn and Dundonald.”

Councillor Uel Mackin, Chair of Development Committee said: “Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council welcomes this substantial investment from the Department for Communities which demonstrates the commitment from DfC and the Council to continuously develop Lisburn & Castlereagh as a thriving business hub and top class tourism destination. The identified initiatives will enhance both Lisburn City Centre and Dundonald Village, supporting private sector investment which will draw new business to Lisburn City centre and create an event space in Dundonald to enable a varied programme of events to be hosted.

“The proposed event space will be designed to enhance the aesthetics of the area, increase footfall and provide local residents with a celebration space. The Council is committing £50,000 to the project to further enhance the significant contribution being made by the Department and demonstrates its commitment to working in partnership and making a real difference.”