Ards and North Down Borough Council has officially launched a new network of Local Action Groups (LAGs), bringing together community representatives, local Chambers of Commerce, elected members and key stakeholders to shape the future of the city and towns across the Borough.
The launch event took place at the Signal Centre in Bangor on Friday, welcoming partners from across Bangor, Comber, Donaghadee, Holywood and Newtownards to mark the beginning of a collaborative approach to regeneration and placemaking.
The Local Action Groups will focus on strengthening connections between communities, encouraging local leadership, and supporting practical actions that enhance urban centres, boost economic growth, and improve quality of life.
Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, said,
“I am delighted to launch the new Local Action Groups, which will bring together key stakeholders from across our communities to identify issues, collaborate on solutions and promote positive change.
This is a model built on partnership, local insight and shared commitment, and that is exactly what makes it so valuable. By working together, we can ensure every one of our towns and city continues to thrive and realise its full potential.”
The groups play an important role as a two-way communication hub, helping to shape local strategies, champion city and towns and drive forward tangible improvements.
The initiative is supported by the Department for Communities and Department of Infrastructure, which work in partnership with councils to deliver regeneration and placemaking outcomes.
The Ards and North Down Business Forum, a key stakeholder representing the collective voice of local businesses, welcomed the initiative.
Chair of the Ards and North Down Business Forum, Frank Shivers said,
“The Local Action Groups provide an important platform for the business community to work in partnership with Council and other stakeholders. By bringing our collective insight and experience to the table, we can help shape practical solutions that support vibrant town centres and sustainable economic growth across the Borough.”
The launch also recognised the success of existing initiatives supporting local business and high streets, including grant schemes such as Glow Up, Empty to Energised and Freshen Up, which are helping to enhance the vibrancy of city and town centres.
The Council’s Local Action Groups will now begin their work, focusing on delivering practical actions, supporting regeneration projects and championing the unique strengths of the Borough’s city and four towns.
