UK Overall Council of the Year and Best Services Team Winner
CHRISTMAS EVENTS
Switch Ons and Theatre Festive Family Fun
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has recently been named as Overall Council of the Year 2024 for Service Delivery at a prestigious APSE Awards ceremony in September. The Council was one of eight finalists from across the UK up for the prestigious title and the only Council in Northern Ireland to be nominated.
The Council also won the Best Services Team for its Bereavement and Cemetery Services and was a named finalist in five other categories.
Mayor's Message
Welcome to the latest edition of Borough Life, our residents' magazine that keeps you updated about everything going on in the Borough.
As we approach the festive season, I am delighted to announce we have an exciting programme of Christmas events to bring festive cheer across Antrim and Newtownabbey. From our magical Christmas Light Switch Ons (see page 14) to our Christmas performances of Cinderella and Belfast Actually, there is something for everyone. Not forgetting our amazing Enchanted Winter Garden which makes its return on 29 November (see back cover for details).
This season we would encourage you to #EmbraceYourTown and support local businesses by shopping local and embracing everything your town has to offer.
In other news, I am extremely proud that the Council has been awarded the UK overall Council of the Year at the APSE Service Awards in September, with a further award for our Bereavement and Cemetery team.
Page 18 is full of advice, information and tips to keep warm and safe as the colder weather approaches. Contact details are also included should you require further assistance.
I hope to see as many of you as possible when I'm out and about but for those I don't see, may I take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful and healthy New Year.
Councillor Neil Kelly Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey
New Flexible Workspace in the Heart of Antrim Town
Have you noticed all the hype in Antrim Town recently? There has been a lot of attention surrounding the new 16,000sq/ft flexible, modern workspace, including a visit from the Minister of Democracy and Local Growth, Alex Norris MP in September, ahead of the official opening scheduled for 8 November 2024.
Occupying the former Wellworths building, this stateof-the-art facility aims to support entrepreneurs, business start ups, SMEs and innovators to create
a business community in the town centre. It is an opportunity to meet face to face in our techenabled spacious board rooms, or collaborate with others in our hot desk areas. You can also rent a dedicated office with flexible terms.
Space Antrim is one of two workspace projects being developed by the Council, with the second project located in Glengormley. Space Glengormley is scheduled for completion in early 2026.
Keep an eye on @spacetoworkni for opening dates and further information.
Another King's Award Winner from the Borough!
The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neill Kelly, has hosted a special reception to celebrate leading IT asset disposition and lifecycle management (ITAD and ITALM) company Vyta's King's Award for Enterprise success.
The Mallusk-headquartered company won the King's Award for Sustainable Development in May, with CEO and Founder Philip McMichael having the honour of accepting the award from His Majesty the King at a ceremony held at Windsor Castle in July.
Vyta was one of only four companies from Northern Ireland to win what is the highest business honour in the United Kingdom, and one of only two from
Northern Ireland and 29 from across the UK to be recognised for sustainable development in 2024.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly commented during the event: “I was delighted to host this reception for the Vyta team in recognition of their remarkable commitment to sustainability and their dedication to helping businesses reduce their environmental impact. The Kings Award is the most prestigious business award in the UK and Vyta are well-deserved winners given their global presence and inspiring business model. I wish them continued success in their goal of creating a more sustainable world”.
Unlock Up to £20K in Digital Transformation
Funding
The Digital Transformation Flexible Fund (DTFF) offers 70% capital grants between £5k and £20k for businesses implementing emerging digital technologies. The next call for applications opens in early 2025. Join our free webinars to learn how your business can benefit and prepare for a successful application.
Visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/digital-innovation or email digitalhub@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk for details.
Get into Work!
Are you leaving school and wondering what career paths are available to you? Join us on 4 February 2025 at The Theatre at the Mill for our first Careers Fair of the year. Hosted by the Antrim and Newtownabbey Labour Market Partnership, in partnership with the Department for Communities, over 60 local employers and support organisations will be available during the day. They will be delighted to talk with you and provide information on employment opportunities, apprenticeships, and support. Join us for a day of Information, Education and Opportunity!
If you would like to exhibit at our careers fair, please register your interest via E. skills@ antrimandnewtownabbey. gov.uk
Alternatively, If you would like to take part in some practical, on the job learning, we frequently run workplace academies in areas such as hospitality, digital skills, warehousing, health and social care and many more! Visit antrimandnewtownabbey. gov.uk/employmentacademies for more information.
Unlock Your Potential With the Multiply Programme!
Boost Your Numeracy Skills with FREE Courses and Workshops!
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, in partnership with Multiply, is excited to offer a series of dynamic and flexible numeracy initiatives designed to help adults build confidence and improve their maths skills. Whether you're looking to upskill for work, support your children's learning, or simply enhance your daily life, there's something here for everyone!
Our Programme Initiatives Include:
• Maths for Speakers of Other Languages
• Engaging Mature Learners – Making it Count
• Numeracy Boot Camps
• Counting On You – Industry Upskilling
• Bring Your Grown-Up
Who Can Join?
Our courses are open to 19+ adults living in the Borough of Antrim and Newtownabbey who haven't got a grade C or above at GCSE level.
What You Can Expect:
Flexible Learning Options: Courses are designed to fit around your busy life.
Supportive Environment: Learn in a welcoming and inclusive setting.
Skilled Instructors: Experienced tutors who make learning engaging and practical.
For more information or to register E. multiply@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/multiply
Connecting Schools and Employers
In 2024, the Council launched a new work experience programme in collaboration with Workplus Ltd and supported by the James Kane Foundation.
The programme is a pioneering work experience initiative. Working with employers, teachers, students and parents this innovative, first of its kind programme, delivered meaningful, structured work experience opportunities for students based on their actual career aspirations. This dynamic programme supported students to make informed education and career choices and demonstrated the breadth
of opportunities available within the Borough and beyond.
A total of 90 work experience opportunities were created across sectors including engineering, banking, business, retail, media production and hospitality. Almost 70 placements were taken up including 30 from students in Special Educational Needs Schools.
The Council is delighted to be launching this programme again for the 2025/2026 academic year and we are hoping to help even more students to find meaningful work placements.
Keep an eye out for updates and to find out more or to get involved E. business@antrimandnewtownabby.gov.uk
Who Wants to Go to Gilbert, Arizona?
Council is delighted to announce that applications for our 2025 Sister City Youth Exchange Programme with Gilbert, Arizona are now open.
The programme provides an opportunity to share cultural perspectives, make life-long friends and build connections around the world.
This programme has changed the
lives of many students who have taken part and given those young people what they have described as an unforgettable experience. It is centred around a six week exchange made up of 3 weeks in Northern Ireland and 3 weeks in Gilbert, Arizona. Up to 4 applicants will be selected to participate in this experience of a lifetime!
Closing date for applications is Friday 22 November.
For more information, to apply or to view videos and photos from previous exchange students, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/youthexchangeprogramme
See the best shows from the National Theatre without leaving Newtownabbey!
The world-renowned National Theatre in London can now be enjoyed from the comfort of the Theatre at The Mill thanks to a brand-new season of NT Live broadcasts.
For the past 15 years NT Live has brought incredible drama to cinemas around the world, giving millions of people the chance to see actors like Jodie Comer, Andrew Scott, Michael Sheen and Phoebe Waller-Bridge in acclaimed productions, filmed on some of the most famous West End stages using state-of-the-art technology to bring you a genuine theatrical experience.
NT Live is now showing at the Theatre at The Mill, with new productions announced 12 weeks before each screening. With the first show of the season (Suzie Miller's Prima Facie) attracting a sell-out audience in October, early booking is advisable.
For performance dates or to book visit theatreatthemill.com
Introducing
Comedy Ladder: Antrim's Platform for Aspiring and Established Comics!
Get ready for Comedy Ladder, the newest addition to Antrim's entertainment scene at the Old Court House! This exciting new comedy club will bring together aspiring local talent eager to climb the ranks of Northern Ireland's comedy scene alongside established comedians guaranteed to deliver topnotch entertainment.
Whether you're a fan of fresh comedic voices or a lover of seasoned performers, Comedy Ladder promises a night filled with laughter, sharp wit, and unforgettable performances. Don't miss your chance to witness the best rising stars and established names in Northern Ireland comedy, all in one place.
Leading the charge is none other than Andy Gleeks, a veteran comic hailing from Antrim. With his sharp wit and unique take on local life, Andy has made his mark on the comedy world, and now he's bringing the laughs back to his hometown.
For performance dates or to book visit theoldcourthousetheatre.com
UK active Physical Activity
Hero Finalist, Joe Hughes
Joe Hughes is a dedicated volunteer in the Live Long Programme, recently named a finalist in the UK active ‘Physical Activity Hero’ category.
Retiring at 61, Joe didn't settle for idle leisure. Instead, Joe volunteers on a weekly basis to encourage people to stay active and engaged. His leadership transformed it into the largest initiative of its kind in the Borough, embodying the ethos of UK active: more people, more active, more often.
Following a personal loss, Joe found purpose in helping others through sports like badminton and table tennis. Joe is now the ‘go too’ person for advice and improving technique in a variety of sports including badminton, table tennis and pickle ball.
But Joe's impact goes well beyond the court. As a
dedicated volunteer with Sport Changing Lives, he commits his time to leading exercise sessions at multiple leisure centres weekly, engaging up to 80 participants every week.
Joe's passion for volunteering stems from a desire for helping others to embrace an active lifestyle. Whether lending a supportive ear or offering a helping hand, he's been a steadfast source of encouragement for those attending the programme.
In Joe, the community has found a champion of well-being in our Borough, and a true friend to all in the Valley Leisure Centre and beyond.
Sensory Places in Our Borough
Children and adults with autism, dementia and other sensory needs now have more sensory indoor and outdoor places to enjoy.
The spaces are designed to be a safe, welcoming and inclusive place to spend time exploring and stimulating the five senses.
Sensory rooms are now available at the Antrim Forum, Valley Leisure Centre and Crumlin Leisure Centre. They are available to leisure centre users, simply ask at reception to access the room.
Sensory gardens are also available at Antrim Castle Gardens, Hazelbank Park and most recently, Ballyclare (close to the War Memorial) and are open from dawn to dusk.
Only guide dogs are permitted in the sensory gardens.
Quiet hour sessions for swimming and soft play are also available in a selection of our leisure centres.
Visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/accessibility
Antrim and Newtownabbey
Celebrate 29 Green Flag Awards
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has been awarded 29 Green Flags (19 Council sites and 10 community spaces), marking the highest number of Green Flags the Council has ever received for its sites and community spaces.
The Green Flag reassures visitors that these sites are internationally accredited for being well-maintained,
Best Kept Town Awards 2024
Our towns and villages were named among the best kept across the island of Ireland at the prestigious Ireland's ‘Best Kept Town’ Awards 2024. Antrim and Newtownabbey's towns and villages were the most successful in the competition with three of them securing top positions:
safe, and offer amenities to help promote healthy lifestyles.
As a Council, we're delighted to be working with local communities to provide residents with highquality parks and open spaces to relax, play, socialise and exercise in.
• Randalstown not only clinched the ‘Best Kept Small Town’ category, but emerged with the overall ‘Best Kept Town’ winner, beating competition from towns and villages across the entire island.
• Ballynure was recognised as a finalist in the ‘Best Village’ category.
• Antrim Town was named in the top four ‘Large Urban Centre’ category.
Congratulations to volunteers, residents and staff who take immense pride in their towns and villages.
Supporting Our Veterans
Over the past year, the Council has strengthened its support for veterans through several key initiatives. In April 2024, the Council signed the Armed Forces Covenant and launched the Vetarans' Champion Strategy and Action Plan, outlining our comprehensive approach to veteran support.
A new veterans' breakfast club at Whiteabbey Masonic Hall, complementing the established club in Antrim, meets on the first Saturday of each month and offers veterans a space to socialise.
The Council also hosted a major Armed Forces Day celebration at Jordanstown Loughshore Park in June, where thousands of spectators enjoyed a military parade with over 600 service members and an aerobatic display by the Red Arrows.
Veterans' Champion, Councillor Alison Bennington has continued to provide dedicated support, including assisting in a consultation exercise with Brooke House to determine the views of Veterans and their families and hosting a Veterans' Roadshow in Antrim Civic Centre.
If you are a Veteran or know a Veteran who could benefit from support, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/veteransupport
Community Embrace the Christmas Spirit!
We're honouring the contributions of local businesses, schools, churches, community groups, and individuals who make the festive season truly special with the Spirit of Christmas Awards. Categories are as follows:
• Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree Award: Best festive entertainment in a business or community setting.
• Reason for the Season Award: Most festive school, church or community facility.
• The Making an Entrance Award: Best dressed entrance or shop front.
• Traditional Christmas Award: Outstanding acts of goodwill during the festive season.
• Light Up Award: Best Christmas display or the best-lit town/ village in the Borough.
• Special Category – Get Fit and Festive Award: Best festive initiative, display or event promoting health and fitness.
Nominations will open on Tuesday 12 November and close on Monday 9 December. Awards will be presented at the Oriel Gallery on Wednesday 18 December. To nominate, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/Spirit-of-Christmas.
Step into the Season at our Christmas Light Switch Ons
Crumlin, Crumlin Leisure Centre
Thursday 21 November, 6.00pm - 7.30pm
Randalstown, John Street Car Park
Friday 22 November, 6.00pm - 7.30pm
Antrim, Railway Street Car Park
Thursday 28 November, 6.00pm - 7.30pm
Ballyclare, The Square Car Park
Saturday 30 November, 4.30pm - 6.00pm
Glengormley, Lilian Bland Park
Saturday 23 November, 4.30pm - 6.00pm
Hazelbank Park
Tuesday 26 November, 7.00pm - 8.30pm
Threemilewater DEA – Venue TBC
Wednesday 27 November 2024, 6.00pm - 7.30pm
andnewtownabbey.gov.uk/Christmas-Lights
Women Into Leadership Programme
We have launched a Women into Leadership Programme, aimed at empowering women across the Borough to boost their leadership skills and confidence. This programme is part of a special series of legacy projects approved by the Council to honour the incredible public service and leadership of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during her remarkable 70-year reign.
In partnership with Impact Network NI and Utopian Learning, this programme is designed to support participants at all levels, helping them unlock their individual leadership potential. Participants will also have the opportunity to gain an accredited qualification along the way.
This initiative reflects our commitment to promoting equality and encouraging personal and professional growth for women throughout the Borough. The programme captures the core values of leadership, resilience and balance, qualities Her Late Majesty embodied so well.
For more information or to register for the programme visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /womenintoleadership
Join the Journey Holocaust Memorial Programme
Following the success of the 2023 pilot, Council will deliver its Holocaust Memorial Programme again in 2025. The programme aims to promote a deeper understanding of identity-based discrimination, exploring the Holocaust under Nazi rule and genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur.
Participants will take part in seven local workshops and will have an incredible opportunity to visit Auschwitz and the Jewish Quarter in Poland.
Applications for the programme are now open and will close at 10am on Monday 25 November 2024. For details visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /holocaust-memorial-programme
Shaping the Future of Good Relations
We are currently developing a new 5 Year Audit and Strategy that will shape Good Relations programmes across the Borough from 2025-2030.
For more information or to get involved, contact the Good Relations Team E. goodrelations@ antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
Out and About With the Mayor
The Mayor's Charity Summer Ball
Launch of Duneane Community Garden GROW Course
Jonny Henderson - Community Engagement Winner at the UK MJ Awards
The Mayor kicks off the Council's free Walking Football programme
Armed Forces Day at Jordanstown Loughshore Park
Launching the new AR Trail in the Borough
Attending the Final of the NI Social Media Awards
Garden Show Ireland Crumlin Inclusive Summer Scheme
Rain Didn't Dampen Spirits and Party in the Park
Welcoming players to Supercup NI
Winter
Warmth
With increased energy costs it has never been more important to take steps to save energy in our homes. Here are some practical tips to help reduce costs and stay warm in the winter
• Turn your thermostat down by a single degree. For example, reducing your thermostat from 20ºc to 19ºc could take £145 off your heating bill every year. Room thermostats should be between 18ºc and 21ºc.
• In very cold weather set the heating to come on earlier rather than turning the thermostat up so you won't be cold while you wait for your home to heat up.
• If you are unable to heat all the rooms in your home, heat your living room during the day and heat your bedroom before going to bed.
• Warmth starts to escape from your home when the sun goes down and temperatures start to drop. Closing curtains or blinds at night can provide a 33% reduction in heat loss.
• Wearing lots of layers rather than one thick piece of clothing will help trap your body heat and keep you warmer. You can also keep your feet warm with thick socks and slippers.
• Eat warm food and take warm drinks regularly. Food is a source of energy which helps to keep your body warm.
For more energy saving advice visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /energy-efficiency
For information on flooding, emergency financial assistance and extreme weather view our Winter Wise booklet antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/winterwise T. 0300 123 4568 E. info@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
Give the Gift of Warmth This Winter
As Christmas approaches, why not give the gift of warmth? The Oil Stamp Saving Scheme lets you buy £5 oil stamps from local retailers and Council locations, making it a thoughtful gift for loved ones. It helps them budget and spread the cost of heating oil. Stamps can be used as full or partial payment for oil from any participating supplier.
For details visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /oilstamps
Give Your Paper an EGG-cellent New Life
Ever wondered what happens to paper when you put it in your recycling?
From collection to transformation, here's a snapshot:
Collection: Bryson Recycling collects paper and card from household recycling containers in Antrim (blue bins) and Newtownabbey (top box of the wheelie boxes).
Sorting: At the Mallusk facility, paper is collected from the blue bins is sorted from other materials like plastic and glass. The paper collected from wheelie boxes has already been sorted at the kerbside, and doesn't require any further processing.
Processing: The separated paper is checked for quality before being compacted into bales and sent to Huhtamaki in Lurgan.
Transformation: Here, paper is made into a range of new products including egg boxes.
By choosing to recycle right, your paper and cardboard has come full circle back into our homes ready to start the recycling journey again.
European Week for Waste Reduction
16-24 November 2024
The EWWR has decided to join forces this year to change the way we produce, consume and distribute food in Europe.
Every year, EU states produce over 58 million tonnes of food waste and on a global level, one third of all food produced for human consumption is wasted. The majority of this food waste is produced in households and the figures indicate that everyone has a role to play in reducing food waste as much as possible.
Simple steps, such as, meal planning, using leftovers and adequately storing food to maximise longevity all contribute to reducing the amount of food waste produced by each household.
For more information on the campaign please visit: ewwr.eu/ thematic_focus/2024-food-waste
Christmas Waste Removal
Christmas is a magical time of food, drink and gifts galore! After the festivities are over, the big tidy up begins: there's the Christmas tree, all the gift-wrap, packaging, and there might be some waste that the bins and wheelie boxes are struggling to hold!
It can be tempting to pay one of the many “man with a van” services advertised on social media to whisk your rubbish away, out of sight and out of mind. Unfortunately these services are often too good to be true, as unlicensed individuals frequently remove waste from residential properties and dump it unlawfully: in alley ways, country roads or on privately owned land, rather than at a proper waste disposal site. This is fly-tipping, and it is an expensive crime for Council to tidy up. We employ a Zero Tolerance approach to fly-tipping, which means that
Christmas Toy Scheme 2024
We Ho-ho-hope yule help!
Building on the success of previous years, let's make the Christmas Toy Scheme 2024 the best one yet!
Last year, an overwhelming response from the community resulted in the collection of 5,106 toys across the five household recycling centres. This equated to approximately 5.5 tonnes of gently used, good quality toys being saved from unnecessarily ending up in landfill. These toys went on to find new loving homes with children and families across the Borough.
If you have any high quality, preloved toys that you would like to pass on to this very worthwhile cause, a container will be available at each of the household recycling Centres and will be open for donations between 1 November and 1 December 2024.
For more information visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /christmastoyscheme
if our officers find rubbish that is traceable back to you, you may receive a Fixed Penalty Notice, which is the last thing anyone needs after Christmas!
As a resident you are responsible for all waste from your property, including natural Christmas trees that can be brought to the Councils recycling facilities.
Start the New Year off on the right foot! If you hire a waste removal service, be sure to ask questions about where the waste will be disposed of to help keep our Borough beautiful!
You can find information about our facilities and the waste they accept by visiting antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /recyclingcentres
Paws for Thought
With the festive season fast approaching, people often succumb to the temptation of buying a puppy. We are urging residents to remember that dogs are a lifelong commitment.
When the sparkle wears off and the Christmas lights fade, impulse buys often lead to post-Christmas abandonment and regrettably the Council's Enforcement Officers often see a rise in surrendered dogs each January.
If you are considering bringing a puppy home this Christmas, take a moment to ‘Paws For Thought’. Do you know where the puppy is coming from? ‘Paws for Thought’ is a collaborative campaign involving local councils, DAERA, and the PSNI, aimed at combating illegal puppy farming and dog trafficking.
Before making your decision, please take time to read this advice: antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/ paws-for-thought. Once you have your new furry friend, ensure it is microchipped and licensed. You can purchase dog licences online on our website.
If you suspect an illegal breeding operation, or have concerns about an animal's welfare, visit www.daera-ni.gov.uk /articles/paws-thought or T. 028 9034 0160
The 12 Rules of Christmas
Always complete these 12 checks when buying toys:
1. Look for the CE symbol: This confirms the toy meets safety standards.
2. Check it's for kids: Festive novelties can look like toys but keep them away from children.
3. Reputation matters: Purchase from reputable suppliers known for selling safe products.
4. Beware of bargains: Exercise caution with second-hand toys, worn or old items may be unsafe.
5. Check age restrictions: Pay attention to age restrictions to avoid risks like choking or sharp edges.
6. Consider special needs: Shop with extra care for children with special needs.
7. Choking hazards: Watch out for small parts, loose fabric or shedding hair.
8. Loose parts: Ribbons or strings on toys or costumes can be dangerous.
9. Inspect your toy boxes: Replace worn toys. Family favourites should be properly repaired.
10. Supervise when you need to: Some toys, like chemistry sets, require adult supervision.
11. Tidy up: Dispose of packaging once toys are unwrapped.
12. Celebrate a safe Christmas: Completing these checks when shopping can save you stress. Don't forget batteries, and dispose of them safely.
Meet Your Councillors
Alderman Linda Clarke
DEA: Dunsilly Party: DUP
Tell us a bit about your background.
I was born in Ballymena and moved to Randalstown when I got married 34 years ago. I have three grown up children and one grandson with another grandchild on the way.
What makes Antrim and Newtownabbey special to you?
This Borough is special to me as it is where I have set up home and raised my family. We have so many wonderful businesses, parks and facilities. Living in the award-winning town of Ransalstown is such a blessing.
How do you like to spend your time outside of your role as a councillor?
In my spare time, I can often be found in one of our local cafés, running around after my grandson or enjoying time on the North Coast with family and friends.
Tell us something that people may not know about you.
I was chosen to plant a tree at the official opening of my high school, as I was the youngest girl in the school. A plaque was erected with my name on it and I believe it is still there today.
Councillor Henry Cushinan
DEA: Dunsilly Party: Sinn Féin
Tell us a bit about your background.
I have been involved in Republican politics all my adult life and in 1985 I was elected as the first Sinn Féin councillor on Antrim Borough Council and served a number of terms.
What makes Antrim and Newtownabbey special to you?
In 2014, I was elected to the new Antrim and Newtownabbey Council and since then have served on the Planning Committee. I have had the honor to serve as both Chair and Vice Chair on this committee. I enjoy my role on this committee as it gives me the opporunity to visit parts of the council I would not otherwise see.
How do you like to spend your time outside of your role as a councillor?
I believe the scenery we have is as nice as anywhere. At one end you have Belfast Lough and at the other end as you travel along the new bypass you have a beautiful view of Lough Neagh. I have great love for Lough Neagh and like everyone hope that we can find a solution for the environmental disaster that is currently happening.
Tell us something that people may not know about you.
I enjoy weekends away when I get the chance and Derry and Galway are two of my favourite places to relax.
I am a keen music fan and like to get to at least a couple of concerts each year.
Councillor Annie O'Lone
Tell us a bit about your background.
I moved to Randalstown from Cookstown, Co Tyrone, at the age of 19. I've always had a keen interest in politics which led me to getting involved locally as an activist. I started my job as the Constituency Manager of Declan Kearney MLA's office when I was 21, and still work there full time alongside my role as councillor 5 years later.
What makes Antrim and Newtownabbey special to you?
Speaking as a blow-in, I think this is a beautiful part of the country – and there are still parts of the borough I've yet to explore! I've always found the people to be very friendly and welcoming too – I have a particularly good relationship with the community in Randalstown
Councillor Stewart Wilson
because of my job in the office – I love when people call in with me to have a yarn!
How do you like to spend your time outside of your role as a councillor?
I love to bake. I'm also partial to a mooch around the charity shops to find some great bargains! I'm always up for a road trip or a weekend away too – I love to travel and immerse myself in different cultures and languages. You can frequently find me doing my daily Duolingo challenges when I get a spare minute!
Tell us something that people may not know about you.
My biggest aspiration is to publish a novel some day – who knows what the future might hold!I
Tell us a bit about your background.
I have lived in Ballyclare all my life and I recently bought my first home with my girlfriend Lauren. I graduated from University of Ulster, Jordanstown with a First Class BSC Honours Degree in Politics and currently work in the Northern Ireland Civil Service.
What makes Antrim and Newtownabbey special to you?
The fact that our Council was recently voted the Best in the UK is testament to how special a place our Borough is to live. We attract visitors from far and wide to facilities such as Antrim Castle Gardens and the King's Coronation Garden in Hazelbank. None of this success would be possible without the collaborative efforts of residents, community leaders, Council
officers and our elected representatives.
How do you like to spend your time outside of your role as a councillor?
I am a keen traveller and I follow the Northern Ireland football team home and away, which gives me an excuse to experience different parts of the world.
Tell us something that people may not know about you.
I am a second generation elected representative. My grandfather, Jim Wilson, served on the legacy Newtownabbey Borough Council, representing Ballyclare from 1975 to 1988 and then as an MLA for South Antrim from 1998 to 2007.
DEA: Dunsilly Party: UUP
DEA: Dunsilly Party: Sinn Féin
Your Councillors
KEY ABBREVIATIONS
DUP Democratic Unionist Party
IND Independent
SDLP Social Democratic and Labour Party
UUP Ulster Unionist Party
ANNE MARIE LOGUE SINN FÉIN
T. 07533 353610
E. annemarie.logue@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
Airport District Electoral Area (DEA)
COVERS ALDERGROVE, CLADY, CRUMLIN, MALLUSK AND TEMPLEPATRICK.
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
PAUL MICHAEL bem IND
T. 07587 657120
E. paul.michael@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
MAIGHRÉAD NÍ CHONGHAILE SINN FÉIN
T. 07827 286768
E. maighread.nichonghaile@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
Antrim District Electoral Area (DEA)
COVERS ANTRIM CENTRE, FOUNTAIN HILL, GREYSTONE, SPRINGFARM, STEEPLE AND STILES.
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
LUCILLE O'HAGAN SINN FÉIN
T. 07827 286769
E. lucille.ohagan@ 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.
JEANNIE ARCHIBALD-BROWN DUP
T. 07715 392229
E. jeannie.archibald-brown@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
LEWIS BOYLE ALLIANCE
T. 07827 286771
E. lewis.boyle@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
HELEN MAGILL DUP
T. 07827 287163
E. helen.magill@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
VERA MCWILLIAM UUP
T. 07792 477050
E. vera.mcwilliam@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
LEAH SMYTH UUP
T. 07984 030867
E. leah.smyth@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
MICHAEL STEWART IND
T. 07810 868522
E. michael.stewart@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
Glengormley Urban
Macedon
Threemilewater Airport
Antrim
Dunsilly
Ballyclare
MAYOR
DEPUTY MAYOR
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
ANNIE O'LONE SINN FÉIN
T. 07827 286772
E. annie.olone@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
STEWART WILSON UUP
T. 07827 286774
E. stewart.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
JULIAN MCGRATH ALLIANCE
T. 07920 029033 E. julian.mcgrath@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
Macedon District Electoral Area (DEA)
COVERS ABBEY, CARNMONEY HILL, O’NEILL, RATHCOOLE, VALLEY AND WHITEHOUSE.
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
STAFFORD WARD IND
T. 07827 286776
E. stafford.ward@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
Threemilewater District Electoral Area (DEA)
COVERS BALLYDUFF, FAIRVIEW, JORDANSTOWN, MONKSTOWN, MOSSLEY AND ROSTULLA.
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
STEPHEN COSGROVE UUP
T. 07909 531742
E. stephen.cosgrove@ 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
EAMONN MCLAUGHLIN SINN FÉIN
T. 07827 286775
E. eamonn.mclaughlin@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
ALLIANCE
T. 07799 866876 E. billy.webb@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
*In the case that there is a show scheduled over a bank holiday closure, the theatre will open as usual.
Please note, the above holiday arrangements are subject to change. Please see our website for updates.
Customer Service Hub (Switchboard)
0300 123 4568
Arts & Culture Hub
0300 123 7788
Leisure Hub
0300 123 1580
Planning
0300 123 6677
Caravan Parks
Sixmile Water: 028 9034 0137
Jordanstown Loughshore Park: 028 9034 0137
Recycling Centres & Waste
028 9034 0056
Useful Council Contacts
Park Warden: 028 9034 0275
Dog Warden: 028 9034 0160
Out of hours Dog Warden: 028 9034 0178
Contact details for Community Centres are available at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/communitycentres
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
Discover Antrim & Newtownabbey With the Time Travel Trails App
Embark on a journey through time with our new Time Travel Trails app.
In a perfect blend of old and new, uncover hidden stories of the fascinating people, places and events that shaped the area through the centuries.
Explore the trails using the GPS-enabled map and experience impressive augmented reality portals to the past, transporting you back in time using 3D animation.
You'll also find plenty of interesting facts, compelling videos, and hear about famous and lesser known events from the area's history along the way.
These FREE trails add another layer of excitement to your family walks and leisure time - get outdoors and get discovering today!
Download now for free and uncover:
The Secrets of Belfast Lough
The Secrets of Antrim Castle Gardens
USEFUL NUMBERS
PLEASE
Have Your Say
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is committed to delivering excellent services to all its residents and your feedback is important to us.
We would welcome your feedback on a number of key areas.
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 prize draw to win family tickets to Garden Show Ireland
This survey can also be completed online at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /surveys
1. How we communicate with you. How satisfied are you with:
Borough Life magazine
The quality of information on the Council website
Using our digital services
2. Our attractive Borough. How satisfied are you with:
The attractivenesss of the Borough
Parks and Open Spaces
Waste and Recycling services
3. Community Relations. Do you believe:
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough is a safe place to live?
Community Relations are good within the Borough?
4. Overall satisfaction.
Overall, how satisfied are you with services provided by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council?
Overall satisfaction with Council services
5. Please provide your postcode. We will only use this information for data analysis.
Postcode:
6. Please provide any additional feedback below.
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 Tuesday 31 December 2024
Contact name:
Contact number:
Contact email:
Prize Draw
All responses received will be entered into a prize draw to win family tickets to Garden Show Ireland
For competition rules visit antrim and newtownabbey.gov.uk /competitionrules For GDPR Statement visit antrim and newtownabbey.gov.uk /gdpr/communications-and-customer-services-gdpr
