Borough Life // April 2023

RESIDENTS’ MAGAZINE // April 2023

COMING SOON

King's Coronation Garden at Hazelbank

GARDEN SHOW

IRELAND Returns for another year

Get

22

16-18 JUNE, 10AM-6PM ANTRIM CASTLE GARDENS

GARDEN EXTRAVAGANZA

Admission £10 / Under 16s FREE

Garden Show Ireland returns to Antrim Castle Gardens, bigger and better than ever before! This three-day extravaganza of flowers, food and fun celebrates the beautiful Antrim Castle Gardens at the height of its summer glory.

This fabulous event will be packed with ideas and inspiration for your own garden, expert advice and opportunities to buy from specialist plant growers, creative insights from Garden Show Ireland ambassador Diarmuid Gavin, plus delicious food, fabulous live music, fantastic local crafts and much, much more!

How to Contact Us

We provide lots of services and facilities for our residents and customers to enjoy and there are many reasons why you may want to contact us.

Whether you are booking a class, enquiring about an event, paying your dog licence or reporting a missed bin, we want your experience to be as easy as possible.

Arts & Culture

Want to book a theatre show or get tickets for an event? Simply book online at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/events

Got a query? Contact our Arts & Culture Hub on:

• Live Chat (look for the purple chat icon on our webpage)

• E. culture@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

• T. 0300 123 7788

The team is available to help you

• Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm

• Saturday and Sunday, 10am–5pm

This Customer Hub will also operate on the evenings of theatre shows and events.

Leisure

You can visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/ leisure or use the ANBorough app to book your leisure class or activity.

If you have a query or want to enquire about membership packages, you can contact our Leisure Hub on:

• Live Chat (look for the purple chat icon on our webpage)

• E. more@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk (general enquiries)

• E. leisurebookings@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk (extended bookings and pitch bookings)

• T. 0300 123 1580

The team is available to help you

• Monday to Thursday, 8am–8pm

• Friday, 8am–6pm

• Saturday and Sunday, 10am–4pm

Other ways to contact us

We now have a new telephone number for our Customer Service Team at both Antrim Civic Centre and Mossley Mill. You can call us on T. 0300 123 4568, Monday to Friday, 8.30am–5pm.

Our Planning section can be contacted on T. 0300 123 6677

Our Recycling Centres and Waste department can be contacted on T. 028 9034 0056 (Our telephone numbers are charged at local rate.)

Visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or use the ANBorough app to:

• Access your leisure membership

• Check your bin collection date

• Contact your local Councillor

• Pay your dog licence

• Request a bulky waste collection

• Submit a building control application

• Report a complaint online

Follow us on social media to keep up to date with Council news and events.

ANBorough

For jobs in the Borough, visit ANBoroughJobs

This magazine is delivered to postal areas BT29, BT36, BT37, BT39, BT41 and our residents in BT38. If it is not delivered to any of your neighbours living in these areas, please let us know.

If you have any comments on the magazine please contact us.

E. comms@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk T. 0300 123 4568

Please contact us if you require this magazine in an alternative format.

• Braille

• Large print

• Audio version

To order contact E. ellen.boyd@ antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Mayor’s Message

Welcome to the April edition of Borough Life, our residents’ magazine that keeps you up to date with what’s going on in the Borough.

We have an eventful spring ahead with lots for everyone to enjoy. The Coronation of His Majesty The King is sure to be a weekend to remember, full of celebrations to commemorate this momentous occasion (pages 20-21). The annual Ballyclare May Fair returns for another year, with a full programme of exciting events (see page 22).

The Levelling Up Scheme continues to breathe new life into Antrim and Glengormley (updates on pages 10-11). Further transformation opportunities are available to local business owners with the launch of the Shopfront Improvement Scheme and Living Above the Shops Grant Programme (page 15).

We recently launched our five year Local Biodiversity Action Plan which will help to restore, enhance and protect key habitats and species across the Borough (page 34).

Finally, I am looking forward to enjoying my last few months as Mayor before my term draws to a close in May. It has been an honour to hold this position, meet so many inspiring people and witness first-hand the positive strives the Council has made to make this Borough a better place to live, work and visit.

I hope you all have an enjoyable Easter.

Alderman Stephen Ross Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey

Recent Council Investments

The Council is committed to making Antrim and Newtownabbey a vibrant and welcoming place, to invest, learn, work, visit and live. Below are some of the projects that have recently been completed, enhancing our facilities and the Borough to give our residents a greater sense of civic pride.

Following £750k investment, Skate 100 at V36 is one of the largest urban skate parks across the UK and Ireland and has been hailed for bringing communities together in what had previously been a site for interface trouble.

The Council is committed to the continued development of sport and physical activity throughout the Borough. Ballyearl Arts and Leisure Centre has received over £100k in state-of-the-art fitness equipment and a modernised interactive Group Cycle Studio. In 2021, Ballyearl also received £250k investment in the latest golf technology, TopTracer.

The Valley Leisure Centre received £500k investment upgrading the spa facilities whilst Sixmile Leisure Centre benefited from £575k investment in state-of-the-art fitness improvements. £2.4m investment for the redevelopment of Antrim Forum’s fitness suite is also currently underway.

With over £230k investment, the Greenway Project has created more accessible routes for cyclists and walkers encouraging more people to get outdoors and live an active, healthy lifestyle. With these new paths, you can take yourself away from the busy traffic congestion, get on your bike and enjoy the views of the local area.

The Platinum Jubilee Clockwork Garden at the majestic Antrim Castle Gardens was created by garden designer, Diarmuid Gavin and specially commissioned as part of the Council’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June 2022. This garden, the only one of its kind in the UK has ‘Dancing Trees for the Jubilee’ where the trees dance every 15 minutes, will be a lasting legacy to Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

The Council has invested heavily in public art and planting around our town centres and villages making them more vibrant and welcoming for our local residents and visitors.

The Council is committed to making our facilities more accessible and has invested in new and improved infrastructures at Rathcoole and Lilian Bland parks. The Council has also designed and created two sensory gardens at Hazelbank and Antrim Castle Gardens, following £54k investment.

For more information on our inclusive activities, please visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/accessibility

Ballyclare Greenway, Ballyclare War Memorial Park, Muckamore Trail, Glas Na Braden, Burneys Lane ans Rea’s Wood.

New Crematorium Due to Open Early Summer

Works on the new Crematorium in Newtownabbey are nearing completion with an opening date proposed for early summer.

The £5m investment will provide a state-of-the-art facility to serve people from across all of Northern Ireland.

Nestled in a parkland setting of cherry blossom trees, wildflower meadows, a lake and seating areas for reflection, this will offer relatives and friends a peaceful and tranquil place to commemorate their loved ones. The Crematorium will also feature a memorial garden with elegant vaults for the interment of ashes.

With up to six attended services daily from 10am to 3pm, the Crematorium will offer 45 minute services allowing families time for a relaxed and dignified service.

Featuring the latest technology, the Crematorium will also offer a full streaming service allowing family and friends who cannot attend in person to watch the service online.

The Crematorium has ample car parking on site including accessible parking and EV charging points.

For more information please contact our Customer Hub on T. 0300 123 4568

New £18m Housing Development at Enkalon Site

A major housing development with an investment of £18m by Lotus Homes (UK) Ltd has been given the go-ahead on the former Enkalon site in Antrim.

Set in a highly desirable area of Antrim, this new development will comprise of 74 homes made up of detached, semi-detached, chalet bungalows and apartments which will all feature energy saving solar panels.

This significant £18m investment into the local economy from the private sector will completely transform this rundown site and will also sustain up to 80 construction jobs.

Antrim is currently undergoing major regeneration works in the town centre and surrounding areas and this investment by Lotus Homes reinforces Antrim as a prime location to live, work and invest in.

Council Maintains Lowest Rates Increase in Northern Ireland

Taking into account the cost of living crisis, current and predicted inflationary pressures and cost increases, the Council has applied a modest increase of 4.9% to the district rates for 2023/24. This equates to an overall increase of just under 40 pence per week for an average household which is well below the 10.7% rate of inflation.

This achievement continues to reinforce the Council’s reputation and track record for the lowest rates increases with an average increase of less than 1.5% or 11 pence per week since the new Council was formed in 2015.

The Council will continue to deliver on the commitments previously made to support local residents, the community and voluntary sector and businesses and has revealed its own ambitious investment plans totalling £48m which will see the development of new and refurbished facilities across the Borough.

This investment includes:

• State-of-the-art Crematorium facility due to open early summer

• Significant regeneration of Glengormley and Antrim Town

• Upgrade and expansion of leisure facilities at Antrim Forum including the stadium track

• Redevelopment of Jordanstown Loughshore, Hazelbank, The Old Courthouse and Antrim Castle Gardens Cafés

• Investment in community facilities at Rathcoole, Muckamore and Neillsbrook

• Development and improvements to parks, open spaces, car parks, walking trails, allotments and pitches, including Six Mile Water footbridge

• Coronation Garden at Hazelbank

• Village and shopfront improvements across the Borough

• Cranfield Jetty improvements

• Steeple House and Gardens

• Threemilewater Sports Pavilion

13% Capital Investment

4% Community and Council Facilities

31% Waste Management

5% Regulatory Services (Including Environmental Health, Building Control and Planning)

9% Culture, Tourism & Economic Development

8% Other

9% Democratic Representation and Corporate Management

5% Community Services

16% Recreation (including Leisure Centres and Parks)

The chart outlines the breakdown of the district rate which is set by the Council. The second part of your rates is the regional rate which is set by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Transforming Antrim Town Centre

The transformation of Antrim Town continues as part of an £8m investment designed to breathe new life into the town centre and riverfront. Funding has been provided by the UK Levelling Up Fund, Department for Communities, the Council and the public sector.

The latest phase of the project has seen the completion of the Riverfront Regeneration Scheme at the back of the former Wellworths’ building on High Street. A new double-height glazed entrance at the rear of the building now links the town centre with the recently refurbished

boardwalk. In February, the Council’s Planning Committee approved the development of a Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant ramp at the back of the building with a new lift making a completely accessible route from the boardwalk to Antrim’s High Street.

The next phase of work will be the creation of the new office workspace on the first floor of the same building, providing 16,000 sq ft of flexible accommodation in the heart of the town centre. This will create a new, vibrant workspace in the town centre for 300 people who will shop, eat

and spend in the town on a daily basis. This scheme will commence in May 2023 and be completed by December 2023, with the first businesses due to move in early in the New Year. If you are a business who would be interested in this workspace please E. investment@ antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Contractors are also onsite at Ulster Bar Corner as the delivery of a community event space and garden begin. The project, funded by DfC (£170k) and the Council (£195k) will see the longvacant site in the heart of the town transformed and brought back into community use.

For more details visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/yourantrim

Riverfront Scheme under construction

Plans for the development of Ulster Bar Corner

Mayor cuts the first sod at the Ulster Bar Corner site

Glengormley Regeneration Gathers Pace

The multi-million pound Glengormley Regeneration programme is gathering pace, with ongoing work to transform and revitalise the town centre well underway. The first phase of the project, which saw the installation of modern shopfronts on properties along Glenwell Road from Creative Tiles to the Movie House Cinema, has been completed.

In February, the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Alderman Stephen Ross visited Scrapyard Golf, a unique entertainment venue located in one of the units on Glenwell Road. Thanks to the shopfront scheme, the establishment now boasts an impressive new façade.

The redevelopment of the former police station site is also progressing, with plans to create a 16,000 sq ft office/workspace hub. The site has already seen extensive improvements, including the creation of

an open space for hosting community events.

Work is set to continue through 2023, with Farmley car park receiving a major upgrade and consideration being given to a new one-way system from Farmley Road to Glenwell Road. To help with traffic flow in the area, improvements have begun to provide a new right-hand turning lane at the junction of the Antrim Road and Glenwell Road.

Looking ahead, the planned public realm scheme will bring new pavements, street furniture, lighting and increased public pedestrian space to the town.

The Glengormley Regeneration Project is being supported by the UK Levelling Up Fund, the Department for Infrastructure, the Department for Communities, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and the private sector.

Installation of new modern shopfronts along Glenwell Road

Workspace hub concept

Mayor, Alderman Stephen Ross visits Scrapyard Golf

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has received £5.1m from the UK Government's Levelling Up Fund, breathing new life into Antrim and Glengormley town centres. This means new space for businesses, entrepreneurs and local job opportunities.

The funding received through Levelling Up alongside the Council’s investment of over £5m, will create two state of the art flagship hubs, offering 16,000 sq ft of offices/workspace and shared areas in each town centre. This modern, flexible and highly accessible accommodation will meet the needs of new start up businesses, early growth businesses and budding entrepreneurs.

Watch the transformation take shape at…

ANTRIM

Former Wellworths building on the High Street with a new riverfront access.

GLENGORMLEY

Former Police Station site at the junction of the Glenwell Road and the Antrim Road.

If you own a business and would be interested in a workspace please get in touch

E. investment@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Last Call for Businesses to Join Digital Surge Programme

Are you a business in Antrim and Newtownabbey? Have you considered utilising digital technology or software but don’t know what the right solution is for your business? Support is available through the Digital Surge Programme.

This is the final call for applications through the programme for businesses seeking to better understand the technology and software that could help their business grow and become more efficient.

To sign up to the programme visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/digital-surge

Participation in this programme could help your business receive financial support to purchase equipment and software.

Next Step Towards a Better Future!

Antrim and Newtownabbey Labour Market Partnership (LMP) ran six new Skills and Employability Academies from February to March 2023. Funded by the Department for Communities, these free academies provided an innovative and bespoke approach to training.

They were targeted at unemployed residents who met one of the following criteria:

• Young people (16 – 24 year olds) who were not currently in education or training

• People who are in receipt of benefits

• People who are economically inactive.

The tailored training and support gave participants the chance to get into employment in a variety of sectors by providing the basic knowledge and qualifications necessary. Opportunities included Classroom Assistants, Warehouse Operatives, HGV/Coach Drivers, and training in industries like Construction and Health & Social Care.

When applicants completed the course they also secured a job interview within that sector.

Top Performing Council Grants Planning

Approval to £10m Factory in

Just 16 Weeks

JANS Group has been granted planning permission by Antrim and Newtownabbey Planning Committee, for a new £10m factory at its Caulside Drive site in Antrim, in just over 16 weeks.

This new 11,319 sqm double storey building will specialise in the manufacturing of luxury lodges and modular buildings and will create up to 100 construction jobs and around 250 jobs upon completion.

This dynamic manufacturing business founded in 2019, initially as JANS Composites, has since launched a further three companies under the JANS Group brand.

• ETRUX – a specialist in the hire, lease, purchase and conversion of commercial vehicles

• JANS Modular – created to construct modular buildings for the leisure and residential market

• JANS Lifestyle – an outdoor lifestyle specialist with a retail location in Belfast, which focuses on the rental and sale of luxury campervans, as well as providing exciting product ranges for camping and leisure activities.

This £10m investment and the creation of 250 jobs will contribute towards the Council’s ambitious plan to secure £1bn of investment and create 2,500 jobs by 2025.

This major investment by JANS Group will act as an economic stimulus, attracting other companies to our Borough, and reinforces that Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is delivering for business.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Alderman Stephen Ross

A strategic location, with the right access to infrastructure is key when considering an advanced manufacturing firm, and with our sights firmly on future orders, particularly in the luxury lodge and modular building market, this additional capacity will be welcomed in the years ahead.

Ronan Hamill, CEO JANS Group

Shopfront Improvement Scheme for Local Businesses

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey calls on all businesses in Threemilewater and Macedon District Electoral Areas (DEAs) to complete an Expression of Interest form if they would like to benefit from a Shopfront Makeover.

A new Shopfront Improvement Scheme is available to local businesses trading outside of the town centres who have not previously received support, to improve the appearance of their shopfronts making them more visually attractive and appealing to residents and visitors.

New window dressings, painting works, planting and new signage are just some of the enhancements businesses could avail of through this scheme which will improve footfall and increase trade in our local communities.

For more details or for an Expression of Interest form E. regeneration@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or T. 028 9034 0000

Living Above the Shops Grant Programme

Are you a business owner who has a vacant or underutilised space above your premises? You could be eligible for funding to repurpose the space for residential use.

The Council is seeking Expressions of Interest for a pilot scheme Living Above the Shops where eligible property owners will be offered support for both interior and exterior improvements which could include:

• Installation of kitchen and bathroom facilities

• External and internal painting

• Access improvements (with Building Control consent)

• Improved security features

• Electrics and lighting

• Plumbing

• Installation / upgrade of heating system

By repurposing these vacant spaces the Council aims to contribute to an increase in local housing and affordable homes for residents, and increase the population in our local centres.

If you would like to express your interest in the scheme or to find out more information contact Alistair Law T. 028 9034 0000 or E. alastair.law@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Benefits Realised Through Sister City Relationship With Gilbert Arizona

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has delivered significant benefits for the Borough as a direct result of the sister city relationship between the Council and Gilbert, Arizona, helping numerous businesses and communities in our Borough.

The Council has also applied it’s learning from Gilbert, Arizona, to implement new strategic approaches to a number of services including Planning and Investment and Leisure operations, with great results which include;

Planning & Investment

• Promotion of Global Point as a Hub for Advanced Manufacturing resulting in £150m investment by the Ardagh Group, £100m AMIC, £16m investment by Sensata and £4m investment by Steel Mac

• Joined up referral service between Planning and Economic Development to make the customer journey easier

• Top performing Council in Northern Ireland for processing planning applications and attracting investment

In 2018, 12 businesses visited Gilbert, Arizona as part of a Council trade mission securing £1m of business contracts for the local economy. Through these established relationships many of these businesses have since attended a number of American trade shows and enjoyed international success.

The visit had a strong focus on Advanced Manufacturing which led to the promotion of Global Point as an Advanced Manufacturing Hub of excellence and a submission to Queen's University, Belfast (QUB) as part of their search to find a suitable location for the £100m Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC). Located at Global Point, this ‘Factory of the Future’ led by QUB with industry partners, will be the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, offering advanced manufacturing and engineering businesses access to the very latest technology, specialist equipment and expertise.

A cross party delegation travelled to Gilbert, Arizona in November 2022 seeking to establish a strategic partnership between QUB, AMIC and Arizona State University’s (ASU), which is ranked number one in the US for innovation. This partnership when established will support the delivery model for AMIC to create a world class centre of advanced manufacturing here in our Borough, delivering on the Council’s ambition to be an economic powerhouse.

• Reputation as a Council which ‘Delivers for Business’

• On target to achieve £1bn investment and the creation of 2,500 jobs by 2025

• Regeneration of our town centres and villages

Leisure

• Introduction of our family orientated MORE membership across our leisure centres

• Leisure membership growing from 4000 – 11000

• 2.2 million visits to our leisure centres

• Increase in income

• Valley Leisure Centre awarded UK Regional Centre of the Year 2022

• Other Councils have now replicated our approach

Alan Lowry, Environmental Street Furniture who took part in the Council's trade mission to Arizona

Introduction of our family orientated MORE membership

80 Young People Experience the Student Exchange Programme

Since 2000 the Sister City student exchange programme between Gilbert and Antrim and Newtownabbey has allowed 80 young people to explore the different cultures of America and Northern Ireland through a six-week family living experience. The Council intends to build on this success by developing apprenticeship exchanges between businesses in Antrim and Newtownabbey and Gilbert, Arizona, offering a unique life experience opportunity for the apprentices who take part.

The Council will continue to work closely with colleagues in Gilbert, Arizona, to focus on the development of the economic connections and explore new opportunities such as supply chain and sustainability whilst seeking to develop further working relationships that will ultimately benefit our communities.

Dr Alderman Fraser Agnew MBE

Our esteemed friend and colleague Dr Alderman Fraser Agnew MBE, has been awarded the first ever Friendship Ambassador Award from the Gilbert Sister Cities, and a key to the Town of Gilbert in honour of his four decades of service to our Borough.

This honour was bestowed on Alderman Agnew during a recent Council cross-party delegation visit seeking to establish a strategic partnership between QUB, AMIC and ASU.

Alderman Agnew is one of the founding members of the sister / twinning city partnership between Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and Gilbert Arizona in 1998. He has devoted much of his time nurturing this relationship, earning the respect, love and affection of the people of Gilbert.

Dr Alderman Fraser Agnew will retire this year after proudly serving his community for 42 years.

Dr Alderman Fraser Agnew is awarded the Friendship Ambassador Award

SORT Your Waste

We have five fantastic household recycling centres across the Borough where you can recycle a range of items including small electrical appliances, clothing and textiles, wood and carpets.

To make your trip to the recycling centre as quick and easy as possible, make sure you SORT your waste:

S O R T

Sort recyclable and non-recyclable waste materials at home – please do not place recyclable items into the waste skips

Organise your recyclables and waste in your vehicle so that when you arrive at the centre you can place items in correct containers

Re-use – if you have good quality bulky items such as furniture, electricals and bicycles, make sure to put them in the re-use container

For more information visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/recyclingcentres

Grow, Eat, Compost, Repeat!

Nutrient-rich compost is made using the food and garden waste that is collected from your brown bins and in the Borough’s household recycling centres.

Benefits of compost:

• Using compost on our land improves soil quality and produces healthier food and plants

• It reduces the need for fertilizer and pesticides

• It improves water retention in soil so plants need watered less regularly. It also filters water, improving water quality

• Composting waste instead of throwing it in landfill reduces greenhouse gas emissions, helping to reduce climate change.

Remember if it grows, it goes in the brown bin!

To celebrate Compost Awareness Week (7-13 May) we are giving households one free bag of compost to residents who recycle something at any of our five household recycling centres. Items include garden waste, batteries, scrap metal, wood or even electrical items. Limited supply available, while stocks last.

To find your nearest recycling centre visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/recyclingcentres

Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort

Make the King’s Coronation a weekend to remember. Come together with friends, family and your local community to celebrate this momentous occasion in history.

We have a jam-packed weekend of activities to look forward to:

SATURDAY 6 MAY

Live broadcast of the Coronation at Antrim Castle Gardens and Jordanstown Loughshore Park

SUNDAY 7 MAY

The Big Lunch at Hazelbank Park and Lough Neagh Gateway

Live broadcast of The Coronation Concert and music from The King (aka The Elvis Spectacular) at Jordanstown Loughshore Park, and from Qween at Antrim Castle Gardens, plus fireworks and fun

MONDAY 8 MAY

The ‘Big Help Out’ starts on Monday 8 May and we will be promoting and supporting volunteer opportunities across the Borough to help you get involved!

For more details visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/kings-coronation

King's Coronation Garden... Coming Soon!

Work has commenced on the King’s Coronation Garden at Hazelbank Park to commemorate the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III. Designed by Diarmuid Gavin, the Coronation Garden will be a spectacle to behold, a floral tapestry with classical architecture style, planted in a pollinator friendly and sustainable way reflecting some of the great loves of His Royal Highness King Charles III. An ornate three floor pavilion topped by a crown, this magnificent Coronation Garden will treat visitors to a musical performance of dancing topiary and spinning conical trees every fifteen minutes.

Keep an eye on our social media pages for updates.

EStD 1756

20 – 27 MAY

EStD 1756

Come and celebrate the best of Ballyclare as the annual May Fair returns from 20 – 27 May! Come together with your families and friends and enjoy the Funfair, Coronation Street Party, Family Fun Day, It’s a Knockout, Music and Fireworks.

EStD 1756

Foodies will be in their element with An Ulster Scotch History of Whisk(e)y, Artisan Market as well as Cooking and Craic with Paula McIntyre.

Culture lovers will appreciate the Ulster Scots Language Workshops and Cèilidh, Craft Demos and Historical Walking Tours.

With a Vintage Car Show, Soap Box Derby and Mayor’s Parade - this event truly has something for everyone!

For more details including the full programme visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/BallyclareMayFair

UPCOMING EVENTS

SHANE'S CASTLE MAY DAY STEAM RALLY

Shane's Castle // 30 Apr - 1 May

Tickets available online at shanescastlesteamrally.co.uk

Join us for the biggest vintage event in Northern Ireland. With over 800 exhibitors showcasing vintage tractors and cars and other agricultural machines.

GIN FESTIVAL

The White House, Newtownabbey and Antrim Castle Gardens // 13 & 27 May

Tickets: £60

Enjoy themed gin serves from the Artisan Gin School along with anecdotes about the history and heritage of two of the Borough's key landmarks.

BATTLE OF ANTRIM COMMEMORATIONS

Various locations throughout the Borough // 5 - 11 June

Tickets: £20 (includes lunch at the Dunadry Hotel and Gardens)

Celebrate the 225th anniversary of the Battle of Antrim by going on a historical tour of the battle sites with Donal Kelly and Stephen McCracken.

Don't forget we have other major events coming to our Borough. See page 2-3 for Garden Show Ireland, page 20 for The King's Coronation, page 22 for The Ballyclare May Fair and page 27 for Kids Easter and Summer Camps.

For more information and tickets visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/events All event details are subject to change. Please refer to our website and

Is Your Garden the Blooming Best in the Borough?

Many of our local businesses, community groups, schools and homes adorn their gardens with vibrant floral displays and wildlife-friendly features. Our Best Kept Garden competition is an opportunity for green-fingered gardeners to showcase their sanctuaries.

Growing on the success of last year’s competition, when we added two new categories, ‘Most Wildlife Friendly Garden’ & ‘Most

Sustainable Garden’, this year we are adding a further category, ‘Best Kept Allotment Plot.’

All eight categories include:

• Best Kept Garden

• Best Kept Front/ Container Garden

• Best Kept Commercial Premises

• Best Kept School Grounds*

• Best Kept Community Planting

• Most Wildlife Friendly Garden

• Most Sustainable Garden

• Best Kept Allotment Plot

Please be advised that entries are only open to Borough residents. Entries open on 2 June and close 14 July 2023. Judging will commence 27 July.

* School entries open on 1 May and close 31 May 2023. Judging will commence 1 June.

We want to see your garden, window boxes or outdoor space! Enter now at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/bestkeptgarden

What is the Trinity Community Hub?

Trinity Reformed Presbyterian Church (Mossley) is piloting a 4-week programme of classes to help anyone in the community who wants to get healthy, improve their employability prospects, learn to paint or get help for children aged 9-12 with Maths and English.

When is it running?

Thursday evenings, from 6.30 to 7.30 in our church building (560 Doagh Road), from 27 April to 18 May. There will also be a short (about 5 minutes) presentation of the Christian message on each evening.

Who is it for and how much does it cost?

Everyone is welcome and each course is completely free. Registration is necessary, however because space is limited.

How do I register?

For more information, and to register online, go to www.trinityrpc.com – just follow the link on our homepage. Or use the QR code below. The closing date for registration is Monday 24 April, but spaces are limited, so don’t leave it too late!

Health Intervention Action Plan

The Council has recently launched a new Health Intervention Action Plan which prioritises exercise programmes for targeted health interventions across the Borough from 2023 to 2028.

The current programmes include:

PARS

This free 12 week exercise programme is led by a qualified fitness professional to introduce people to exercise and gradually build towards a healthier, more active lifestyle. Participants are referred by their GP or a non GP health professional.

Macmillan Move More Cancer Rehabilitation

People living with and beyond cancer will benefit from exercise at a level that’s right for them. Participants are referred either by a health professional or self-referral.

Age Friendly – Live Long Classes

A range of exercise programmes including ‘Live Long’ is available for our ageing population to enjoy an active, sociable and healthy lifestyle.

Exercise for Mental Health

Mental health programmes that focus on mindfulness exercises, such as ‘MORE Movement for your Mind’ are now available in our leisure centres.

To download a copy of the Health Intervention Action Plan, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/leisure

To get involved in any of these programmes E. more@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk T. 0300 123 1580

Getting MORE Out of Life

MORE member, Patrick Kelly gave us an insight into his new healthier lifestyle following a health scare.

Tell us about yourself. 1

I’m Patrick, I’m 54 years old, and up until last year I wasn’t very active and my diet was terrible. I weighed 16 stone 2 lbs because I ate fatty, convenience foods at night after a long day working on the road.

One day I had a wake-up call. What I thought was indigestion with sharp pains in my chest, was actually blood clots in my lungs. Being overweight and having an inactive lifestyle directly contributed towards this.

When did you decide to become a MORE member?

I actually was already a MORE member before my health scare, however I only used it to take my youngest daughter to the swimming pool, rather than using it myself.

I knew I had to get fitter and healthier, but kept telling myself, ‘I’ll start tomorrow’ and then I didn’t do anything about it. It was my mum and my eldest daughter, Ashling, who were the real driving force. They motivated me and encouraged me to start exercising.

On 25 October 2022, I started going to the indoor cycling class at the Valley Leisure Centre and later Ballyearl Leisure Centre. The instructors are absolutely brilliant – so motivating, inspirational and they’re really good fun! My daughter comes along with me to these classes and my son goes to the fitness suite on a Friday night with me too.

How has your life changed? 3

Getting into the leisure centres and getting fit has been amazing! I’ve now lost 3 stone 7lbs within six months and my aim is to get down to 12 stone. I’ve changed my diet, I drink lots of water and now have a great routine in my life.

I’ve been given a new lease of life, I feel and look better and now I’m hooked on exercise! I’ve gone from an XXL to a medium in my clothes. I’m feeling much more confident in myself and I’m much happier – I wish I had started years ago.

This year, Ashling and I are going to take on the Causeway Coast Marathon Walk, and that’s something I couldn’t have done last year! Exercising in the leisure centres has really changed my life!

For details on our MORE memberships visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/MORE

Golf Memberships

Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just starting out, you'll enjoy access to top-notch facilities, including our pristine greens, fairways and state-ofthe-art equipment at Antrim and Newtownabbey golf courses.

Kids Easter and Summer Camps!

11-14 April, 10am – 3pm Antrim Forum and Valley Leisure Centre

17 July – 18 August, 10am – 3pm

Available in various leisure centres.

Price: £7.50 per day

Our kids camps promise to bring an exciting variety of sports, physical activities, arts and crafts for 5-12 year olds.

They offer children a great chance to try a new activity and make friends whilst promoting teamwork. Participants will have the chance to make friends, find out about the local area, enhance their confidence and develop their skills in a variety of areas.

For more details or to book visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/seasonal-camps

A Royal Award for Local Volunteers

Volunteers from Monkstown Community Association were presented the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

This is the highest civic award given to volunteer groups across the UK and this group had the added privilege of receiving the last certificates signed ‘Elizabeth R’ to be awarded in the Borough.

Over the last 21 years, Monkstown Community Association has offered an inclusive programme for the local community providing activities and support for all ages, abilities and backgrounds. This programme is managed by the volunteers and external groups who rent the main hall and activities include health and well-being initiatives, parent support groups, arts & crafts classes, youth activities, information, training courses and support.

Monkstown Community Association provide a Good Morning Service, a Kids Club and partnership initiatives with the deaf community. All projects have taken place in Monkstown Jubilee Centre which is open six days a week and is managed and run by the group on a voluntary basis with over 20 volunteers.

The group of volunteers received their award from the Lord Lieutenant of County Antrim, Mr David McCorkell KStJ at a special ceremony held in The Courtyard Theatre, Ballyearl in January.

School Uniform Re-use Project

School uniforms are a costly expenditure and children grow out of them so quickly. Keeping up with this can be difficult for any family.

Last year, through the Council’s School Uniform Re-Use Scheme, more than 7,000 good quality items were donated which supported 955 families with pre-loved school uniform.

Due to its success, we are delighted to promote the Scheme for a third year. If you would like to get involved, just pass on your good-as-new school uniforms and swap them for other excellent quality items from one of our participating schemes.

Keep an eye on our social media pages for further information on your nearest participating scheme.

Could your organisation help out the Scheme, assisting families in your local area?

Register online at antrimandnewtownabbey. gov.uk/uniform

Borough Filled With Pride

A local community mental health project has been awarded a major prize at the prestigious All-Ireland Pride of Place Community Awards held in Dublin in January. ‘A Safe Space to be Me’ were winners in the Community Wellbeing Initiative category, on the 20th anniversary of the competition.

‘A Safe Space to be Me’ has hubs in both Antrim and Crumlin and hosts a wide range of activities/programmes to enrich the lives of local residents including a Community Food Bank and The Nurture Cafe to tackle food poverty and a ‘Good Morning’ project to challenge loneliness.

Judges praised this group for its inclusivity and impact – “The work of this group is at the heart of the community – accessible to all”.

Established to promote and celebrate community development, the annual awards were founded by peace-building charity, Co-operation Ireland and highlight the selfless efforts of people who make local areas better places to live, work and socialise.

Two other local community projects were nominated by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and both were runners up in the following categories:

• Urban Neighbourhoods/Villages: Whiteabbey Village Business Association

• Housing Estates: Bawnmore and District Residents Association

Awards like these inspire our other local community groups to strive for similar success. These awards are a true testament to the selfless dedication and commitment these groups deliver to enrich their local communities.

For more information on the Pride of Place Awards visit www.prideofplace.ie

Winners of the Community Wellbeing Initiative, A Safe Space to be Me

Legacy Bursary Scheme Leaves a Lasting Impact

A special event took place earlier this year at Theatre at The Mill to celebrate the success of the Council’s first Duke of Edinburgh Legacy Bursary Scheme. The Scheme was created in memory of the Duke of Edinburgh who had a particular interest in helping young people.

This scheme is different to and not linked with the well-known Duke of Edinburgh Awards Programme. The aim of this bursary scheme is to help young people (aged 11-25) in the Borough who may have a career aspiration or hobby they wish to develop but are facing either financial or social barriers. The Council created this bespoke programme to help break down these barriers to assist them in reaching their full potential.

The 10-week programme covered a wide range of topics including cookery, coding, archery, photography, animal welfare, drama, money management and environment and climate change. Areas of personal development including drugs and alcohol awareness, mental health and good relations were also covered. Participants must attend a minimum of 80% of the 10 sessions in order to apply for the bursary element of the scheme.

At the celebration event each of the 19 participants were presented with a certificate for successfully completing the programme and up to £1000 bursary by the Lord Lieutenant of County Antrim, Mr David McCorkell KStJ.

The bursary was awarded to give the young people an opportunity to pursue a new hobby or interest or to help them with their school work or future career. Some of the bursaries will be used to purchase equipment such as laptops, sports equipment and musical instruments and to undertake training including coding, photography, swimming and music lessons.

The Duke of Edinburgh Legacy Bursary Scheme for 2023 will open for applications in mid-April and will close at 4pm on Friday 2 June 2023.

To apply visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/TheDuke-of-Edinburgh-Legacy-Bursary-Scheme

For more information

E. kerry.brady@ antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Don’t Just Bin It… Repair It!

Repair Café Antrim and Newtownabbey (RCAN) is a volunteer-led not-for-profit group operating in our Borough. RCAN aims to reduce waste, share skills and encourage people to think about repairing and reusing things rather than throwing them away.

Repair Café events are held across the Borough where residents are invited to bring along their broken items. Volunteer repairers will be on hand to do their best to fix items or offer advice, all while having a cuppa, a bun and a chat.

A wide range of items have been mended at past events including; food mixers, lamps, clocks, vacuum cleaners, costume jewellery, clothing, bicycles, gardening tools/equipment and toys.

Find out more at www.facebook. com/RepairCafeAN or come along to the next repair event on Saturday 15 April at Newtownabbey Methodist Mission, Rathcoole.

BIG Spring Clean

Northern Ireland’s biggest volunteer clean up, the BIG Spring Clean is open to individuals, schools, groups and businesses wishing to tidy their towns and keep our Borough beautiful.

Take part in a clean-up in the Borough:

Saturday 8 April, 10am-12pm

Crumlin Glen Meet in Crumlin Glen Car Park

To register for a clean-up visit www. liveherelovehere.org/bigspringclean

For general information or to enquire about litter picking in your area E. waste@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Apply Now for a Community Defibrillator Grant

The Defibrillator Grant is available to local sports clubs and community groups who wish to apply for funding to purchase a defibrillator and its associated security casing (if applicable). This funding is designed to ensure that clubs and groups have access to the essential lifesaving equipment needed to create a safe environment for all.

Applicants can apply for 100% funding up to a maximum of £1500.

Funding was recently awarded to the following organisations:

• Muckamore Parish and Development Association

• Mallusk District and Community Group

• Old Bleach Bowling Club

• Parkview Hockey Club

• Loanends Presbyterian Church

• Muckamore Lawn Tennis and Cricket Club

To apply or for more details including criteria, visit antrimnewtownabbey.eformz.info

Have your registered your defibrillator?

Register it on the National Defibrillator Network website, www.thecircuit.uk

Out and About With the Mayor

Launching Chatty Cafe at Cafe 3 in Ballyclare with the Antrim and Newtownabbey Loneliness Network

Holocaust Memorial Commemoration, Monkstown

Visiting Graham Steelworks & Engineering in Mallusk to hear about their exciting growth plans

Visiting Belfast International Airport to announce £2.3m investment

Burying a Time Capsule with Whiteabbey Primary School

Welcoming the first residents of Knockenagh Lane Housing Development

Reception for Snooker Sensation, Mark Allen

Raising money for the Mayor's Charities at the Staff Spinathon

Enjoying the 100th Sixmilewater Park Run

Visit to Overlander Vehicles in Antrim

Congratulating the award-winning Dunamoy Cottages and Spa

Renaming of The Sovereign Complex following investment

Promoting Yarns Kitchen by Manns who recently opened at Mossley Mill

Launching 'The Forget-Me-Nots' - the Council's Dementia Choir

Local Biodiversity Action Plan Launch

We recently launched the Borough’s new five-year Local Biodiversity Action Plan. It outlines how we’re working towards protecting biodiversity locally, particularly at a time when the planet’s climate is changing and bringing new challenges.

The plan has identified local priority habitats and species, along with the actions required to ensure their ongoing protection and enhancement within our Borough.

You can get involved!

Help us become a more biodiversity-rich Borough. We will continue to engage with our local community groups, schools, the farming community and businesses, to encourage you to make changes that benefit our local biodiversity. Keep an eye on antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/events

Visit our website and download a copy of the full Local Biodiversity Action Plan, or for a hard copy contact our Parks Administration team

E. parksadmin@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or T. 028 9034 0139

Energy Efficiency

The Energy Management Action Plan for 2022 –2025 sets out the Council’s aim to improve the energy efficiency of existing buildings and to reduce the use of fossil fuels as an energy source.

The priority is the top five energy consuming buildings: Antrim Civic Centre, Antrim Forum, Mossley Mill, Sixmile Leisure Centre and Valley Leisure Centre.

The Council is continuously exploring ways to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon and mitigate their exposure to increasing energy costs.

Energy improvement measures include:

• The installation of a new biomass facility at the Valley Leisure Centre which will reduce gas consumption on site by at least 25%

• Lighting improvements across facilities to LED bulbs with an anticipated 50% reduction in energy consumption

• Working with NIE to maximise the efficiency of the recently installed Combined Heat and Power (CHP) unit at the Antrim Forum

• Feasibility studies into the type of fuel system for the replacement boiler design at Mossley Mill –gas, air source heat pumps (electricity) or a hybrid

• Reviewing the heating / cooling strategy for Antrim Civic Centre

• A comprehensive report on heating controls at Sixmile Leisure Centre has identified a number of minor works to improve the efficiency of the centre.

For more information visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/climatechange

antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Be Safe This Spring

While the garden provides an opportunity to develop skills and is excellent for supporting our physical and mental wellbeing, it is also full of potential hazards. Follow our top tips below on how to reduce the risks of accidents in the garden.

Gardening Safety

It can be rewarding and cost-effective to tackle practical jobs around the home and garden but be realistic about your capabilities.

• Always use tools according to the manufacturer’s instructions

• Wear the correct protective equipment eg. goggles, gloves and safety shoes

• Use a RCD (Residual Current Device) when working with electrical power tools. These devices shut off the power to the device should the power cord become severed or develops a fault, helping to prevent electrocution

• Stop and disconnect all electrical appliances and tools before repairing and/or cleaning them. Allow petrol powered tools to come to a complete stop before disconnecting grass boxes or checking blades/moving parts

• Take care when using electrical appliances outdoors. Do not use in damp or wet conditions. If using outdoor lighting, make sure it is waterproof/rated for outdoor use.

Trampolines

Trampolines are a popular piece of play equipment but if used incorrectly they can cause serious injury.

• When buying a new trampoline make sure it has a safety net and padding covering anything hard such as the frame or springs

• Locate trampolines on soft impact surfaces like grass or bark chips

• Children under six cannot control their bouncing safely so should not use trampolines. If there is more than one person using the trampoline, the smallest person is at greatest risk of injury!

• Take turns to reduce the risk of collision injuries

• Garden trampolines are not designed for somersaults

• Bouncing off the trampoline or jumping on to it from other objects is dangerous

• Ensure trampolines are secured in high winds so they cannot be blown away.

Cost of Living and Wellbeing Support

Working in partnership with Community Advice Antrim and Newtownabbey we have produced this Cost of Living booklet which contains useful information on benefits, energy bills, food, financial advice and general wellbeing.

To download a copy or for more information visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/costofliving

Your Councillors

KEY ABBREVIATIONS

DUP Democratic Unionist Party

IND Independent

SDLP Social Democratic and Labour Party

UUP Ulster Unionist Party

Airport District Electoral Area (DEA)

COVERS ALDERGROVE, CLADY, CRUMLIN, MALLUSK AND TEMPLEPATRICK.

THOMAS BURNS SDLP

T. 07803 535094

E. thomas.burns@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

ANNE MARIE LOGUE SINN FÉIN

T. 07533 353610

E. annemarie.logue@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

MATTHEW MAGILL DUP

T. 07825 374019

E. matthew.magill@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

ANDREW MCAULEY ALLIANCE

T. 07775 756466

E. andrew.mcauley@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

Antrim District Electoral Area (DEA)

COVERS ANTRIM CENTRE, FOUNTAIN HILL, GREYSTONE, SPRINGFARM, STEEPLE AND STILES.

PAUL MICHAEL bem UUP

T. 07587 657120

E. paul.michael@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

DEPUTY MAYOR

PAUL DUNLOP bem DUP

T. 07771 554652

E. paul.dunlop@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

NEIL KELLY ALLIANCE

T. 07545 992615

E. neil.kelly@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

ROISIN LYNCH SDLP

T. 07827 276840

E. roisin.lynch@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

JIM MONTGOMERY UUP

T. 07471 147666

E. jim.montgomery@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

JOHN SMYTH DUP

T. 07436 582180

E. john.smyth@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

Ballyclare District Electoral Area (DEA)

COVERS BALLYCLARE EAST, BALLYCLARE WEST, BALLYNURE, BALLYROBERT AND DOAGH.

LEAH SMYTH UUP

T. 07984 030867

E. leah.smyth@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

JEANNIE ARCHIBALD-BROWN DUP

T. 07715 392229

E. jeannie.archibald@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

MANDY GIRVAN DUP

T. 07912 028945

E. mandy.girvan@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

VERA MCWILLIAM UUP

T. 07792 477050

E. vera.mcwilliam@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

NORRIE RAMSAY UUP

T. 07342 064652

E. norrie.ramsay@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

MICHAEL STEWART IND

T. 07810 868522

E. michael.stewart@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

JAY BURBANK ALLIANCE

T. 07826 513279

E. jay.burbank@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

Dunsilly District Electoral Area (DEA)

COVERS CRANFIELD, PARKGATE, RANDALSTOWN, SHILVODAN AND TOOME.

LINDA CLARKE DUP

T. 07803 132601

E. linda.clarke@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

HENRY CUSHINAN SINN FÉIN

T. 07871 229810

E. henry.cushinan@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

RODERICK SWANN UUP

T. 07423 457376

E. roderick.swann@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

RYAN WILSON SDLP

T. 07733 453883

E. ryan.wilson@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

Glengormley Urban Electoral Area (DEA)

COVERS BALLYHENRY, BURNTHILL, CARNMONEY, COLLINBRIDGE, GLEBE, GLENGORMLEY AND HIGHTOWN.

ALISON BENNINGTON DUP

T. 07741 241011

E. alison.bennington@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

PAULA BRADLEY DUP

T. 07500 870323

E. paula.bradley@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

MARK COSGROVE UUP

T. 07555 650015

E. mark.cosgrove@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

MICHAEL GOODMAN SINN FÉIN

T. 07827 818500

E. michael.goodman@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

ROSIE KINNEAR SINN FÉIN

T. 07771 544248

E. rosie.kinnear@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

NOREEN MCCLELLAND SDLP

T. 07789 208157

E. noreen.mcclelland@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

Macedon District Electoral Area (DEA)

COVERS ABBEY, CARNMONEY HILL, O’NEILL, RATHCOOLE, VALLEY AND WHITEHOUSE.

JULIAN MCGRATH ALLIANCE

T. 07920 029033

E. julian.mcgrath@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

MATTHEW BRADY DUP

T. 07833 105351

E. matthew.brady@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

ROBERT FOSTER UUP

T. 07342 064510

E. robert.foster@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

BEN MALLON DUP

T. 07719 652057

E. ben.mallon@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

TAYLOR MCGRANN SINN FÉIN

T. 07436 548081

E. taylor.mcgrann@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

VICTOR ROBINSON DUP

T. 07557 752451

E. victor.robinson@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

Threemilewater District Electoral Area (DEA)

COVERS BALLYDUFF, FAIRVIEW, JORDANSTOWN, MONKSTOWN, MOSSLEY AND ROSTULLA.

BILLY WEBB mbe jp ALLIANCE

T. 07799 866876

E. billy.webb@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

FRASER AGNEW mbe UUP

T. 07711 135267

E. fraser.agnew@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

TOM CAMPBELL ALLIANCE

T. 07595 978690

E. tom.campbell@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

MARK COOPER bem DUP

T. 07771 332108

E. mark.cooper@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

SAM FLANAGAN DUP

T. 07984 037509

E. sam.flanagan@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

JULIE GILMOUR ALLIANCE

T. 07796 950825

E. julie.gilmour@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

STEPHEN ROSS DUP

T. 07713 946038

E. stephen.ross@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk

Holiday Arrangements

Contact Us

The Valley Leisure Centre will be closed on 18-20 May to facilitate the Local Council Election.

Are You Registered to Vote?

See page 4 for more informationhub

There are good reasons to register; it is used by credit reference agencies to confirm your address. Not being registered may impact your ability to get credit or a mobile phone contract, open a bank account or even a mortgage.

To join the Electoral Register Online visit www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

Ever Considered Working at Elections?

028 9034 0275 Dog Warden: 028 9034 0160

hours Dog Warden: 028 9034 0178

Contact details for Community Centres are available at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/communitycentres

The Electoral Office has a variety of roles both within polling stations and at the count centres. To join the reserve pool of staff please visit www.eoni.org. uk/Utility/About-EONI/Recruitment

To check you are registered or if you have a query T. 028 9044 6680

Corporate Improvement Plan

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has now published its Corporate Performance and Improvement Plan 202324 (Draft for Consultation) and we are seeking your views. Please note that the consultation period ends at 9am on Monday 1 May.

The draft Plan along with the consultation questionnaire can be viewed at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/ corporateplan

Do Business With Us!

The Council procures a variety of goods and services and uses an electronic procurement portal to promote these opportunities:

eSourcingNI – e-sourcingni. bravosolution.co.uk

If you own a business make sure you take the time to sign up to this portal to ensure you do not miss any tender opportunities.

For more information T. 028 9034 0090 or E. procurement@ antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

USEFUL NUMBERS

PLEASE NOTE - The Council is NOT responsible for these services. We've listed some useful contacts to help you.

Survey - Our Beautiful Borough 2023

Your feedback helps us to assess and continue to improve our service provision. Please take a few minutes to complete this survey, which will help us make more progress.

For competition rules visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/competitionrules or these can be posted on request T. 0300 123 4568

Prize Draw

All responses received will be entered into a FREE prize draw to win one of two £50 vouchers for any food or retail outlet within our Borough.

This survey can also be completed online at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/surveys

1. Do you feel proud of your surroundings? Yes No

2. Overall, how satisfied are you with the attractiveness of the Borough?

3. How satisfied are you with the appearance of our Borough?

Towns and Villages

Parks and Open Spaces

Please specify which areas you are referring to:

4. How satisfied are you with the cleanliness of the roads and streets in your area?

Please specify which area you are referring to:

5. Would you like to provide any further comment? If so please detail below:

6. How satisfied are you with the provision of litter bins in your area?

7. How satisfied are you that litter bins are well maintained and emptied regularly in your area?

8. Did you know that you can report incidents of litter, overflowing or damaged bins and fly tipping to the Council through the website and Residents’ App? On the Website Yes No Resident’s App Yes No

9. Have you ever reported litter or fly tipping?

Litter Yes No Fly tipping Yes No

If so how did you report it? Telephone Through the website Residents’ App Email Social Media

10. Would you be interested in taking part in a community clean up or litter pick? I would like more information before I decide Yes No

11. Do you have any comments on how your area, local park or green space can be improved?

12. Would you be interested in forming/joining a group to enhance your area? I would like more information before I decide Yes No

13. Overall, how satisfied are you with all services provided by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council?

PRIZE DRAW

Simply complete the survey and your contact details below and return to: FREEPOST ANTRIM AND NEWTOWNABBEY BOROUGH COUNCIL – CIVIC CENTRE

Or complete online at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/surveys

Closing date Friday 5 May 2023

Contact name:

Postcode:

Contact number:

Contact email:

For competition rules visit antrim and newtownabbey.gov.uk/competitionrules

Prize Draw

All responses received will be entered into a FREE prize draw to win one of two £50 vouchers for any food or retail outlet within our Borough.

For GDPR Statement visit antrim and newtownabbey.gov.uk/gdpr/communications-and-customer-services-gdpr