Connections - Winter 2022/23

Get in touch Welcome

We are always looking at ways to make it easier for you to engage with us at Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.

We welcome your queries, comments and suggestions. You can contact us directly by telephone on 0300 124 5000

You can visit or write to us at any of the offices below:

Ballymena (Civic headquarters)

The Braid, 1-29 Bridge Street, Ballymena BT43 5EJ

Ballymena – Ardeevin

Ardeevin, 80 Galgorm Road, Ballymena BT42 1AB

Carrickfergus

Civic Centre, 11 Antrim Street, Carrickfergus BT38 7DG

Larne

Smiley Buildings, Victoria Road, Larne BT40 1RU

Keep up-to-date

You can keep up-to-date with us on social media. We use Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to share the latest news, events and information from Council.

MEA Borough Council twitter.com/mea_bc instagram.com/meaboroughcouncil

If you have any comments on the magazine, please contact:

Alternative Formats

If you would like this publication in an alternative format such as large print, please contact us at communications@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or call 0300 124 5000. This magazine will also be printed in limited quantities and presented in our main Council offices, plus available to read online at www.issuu.com/meabc

Why not visit The Braid for a reflective journey viewing 100 never been seen photographs of life in Galgorm Castle during 1890-1915. With An Artist’s Eye: The Photography of Mary Alice Young of Galgorm Castle, Ballymena is open until 4 February 2023 and features the local Young family, living in the big house during Victorian and Edwardian times.

Mid-Antrim Museums Service has developed this captivating photographic exhibition in partnership with PRONI and Galgorm Castle Estate, plus watch out for the BBC commissioned documentary featuring this home-grown story, set for release late 2022.

A warm welcome to our latest edition of Connections, the magazine of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council. We want to keep you updated on developments and events taking place throughout our borough - from green energy awareness and growing your business to exchanging wedding vows in a traditional cottage or cliff top with a view; all help make Mid and East Antrim a great place to live, work and invest. So read on if you want to:

BALLYMENA

LARNE

CARRICKFERGUS

It’s that time of year when we spend more on electricity and home heating.

St Vincent de Paul’s Oil Stamp Saving Scheme, supported by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, allows you to spread the cost of your home heating oil bills by purchasing oil stamps from some local retailers. Collect an oil stamp savings card from participating retailers, purchase £5 worth of oil stamps, place the stamps onto your savings card and use for payment, or part-payment, of oil from participating suppliers.

Enter this competition to be in with the chance of winning oil stamps worth £50 off your next order.

Send your name, address and contact number by email, under the heading ‘Competition’, to wellbeing@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or by post to the Energy Efficiency Advisor, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Smiley Buildings, Victoria Road, Larne, BT40 1RU by 31 December 2022.

Good luck!

Beat the Chill this Winter!

As energy bills rise, there are a number of ways to stay warm, reduce your heating bills and make your property more energy efficient.

For homeowners or private tenants on a limited income, there are current grant schemes offering installation of energy efficiency measures, such as loft and wall insulation as well as new, more efficient, heating systems. A homeowner with an inefficient boiler that’s over 15 years old? Depending on your income, you may be eligible for a grant towards a replacement boiler. Call Northern Ireland Housing Executive on 03448 920900 for more details.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council offers a free home energy service to help anyone who’s struggling to heat their home, has difficulty understanding energy bills or working their heating controls. A visit may include onward referrals to energy efficiency schemes and support organisations, advice and management of current household energy use and budgeting plus details on temporary installation of energy monitors and thermal imaging of the property to identify areas of heat loss.

For further information telephone 028 2563 3394 or email wellbeing@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Meanwhile, here are some top tips for keeping your home warm this winter:

• Get your boiler serviced regularly (once a year) to keep it operating at its most efficient. That will help reduce fuel bills and save money on unexpected breakdowns. As with any fossil fuel burning appliance, inadequate or poor servicing can cause the generation of carbon monoxide.

• Check your radiators for cold spots and bleed with a radiator key.

• Your living room should be around 70oF (21oC) and your other rooms at least 64oF (18oC). Keep your living room warm throughout the day and heat bedrooms before bed.

• Close curtains before it gets dark to keep heat in and don’t block your radiators with furniture.

If you would like further details on energy efficiency around the home then telephone 028 2563 3394 or email wellbeing@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

WIN stamps towards your next heating oil order Own a business and want to reduce your carbon footprint?

The green economy is growing and Sustainable NI have launched a new support service for local businesses who want to improve their sustainability offering. This bespoke service will undertake an energy/waste/carbon audit of your business, to deliver environmental and social improvements resulting in saved resources. If profit margins and long-term resilience are on your radar and your business is in Mid and East Antrim, why not contact Claire McVeigh on claire@ sustainableni.org for support and guidance.

Street Art brings a splash of colour to Mid and East Antrim

Six acclaimed street artists have transformed the underpass pillars at Narrowgauge Road, Larne during a special Street Art Jam. As part of Larne’s recent Arts Festival, members of the public watched artists including FGB, Emic, Codo, Wee Nuls, Alana McDowell and Rob Hilken create their individual masterpieces.

Larne Grammar Art students also benefitted from a street art masterclass, learning specific graffiti art techniques to create amazing artwork - all in the space of 2 hours! Street Jam plus other workshops encouraged over 200 people of all ages to learn new skills across various art forms; leaving a creative legacy and a fresh vitality in the Larne area through education, supporting local artists and performers, musicians and writers.

Look out for some striking murals appearing right across our three Town Centres, funded through Department for Communities. Wellington Court, Ballymena now boasts an original by international artist Sophie Mess, featuring Dahlia flowers which represent wealth, change and creativity.

Famed Belgian artist Iota has created a mural on Point Street, Larne and our very own Alana McDowell from Gleno completed artwork on Lower Cross Street:

“A much younger version of me would never dream of doing a mural this size in my home town.”

Innovation through Energy: Piloting a Hydrogen Training Academy

As part of Council’s Economic Recovery Strategy the Clean Energy sector was prioritised with hydrogen economy channelled as a key focus.

Clean Energy, a rapidly growing and evolving sector, is energy that comes from a renewable source, doesn’t pollute our atmosphere when used and creates less dependence on imported fossil fuels. Hydrogen is known as an energy carrier and can be used to store or deliver power from other sources.

Aimed at supporting economic recovery through upskilling and re-skilling initiatives, Mid and East Antrim’s Pilot Hydrogen Training Academy was established in 2021. Leading a team of key partners we secured more than £700,000 from a range of private and public sector funders for delivery of the innovative academy – to develop a continuous learning pathway for the hydrogen economy, create a state-of-the art learning environment and deliver essential training on a range of hydrogen subjects, as well as support a greener future for Northern Ireland.

The key partners including Northern Regional College, Belfast Metropolitan College, University of Birmingham, Ulster University and Queens University Belfast developed, accredited and delivered a range of hydrogen training opportunities, from Levels 3 to 7 for industry across a number of areas.

Academic hydrogen specialists from the University of Birmingham have delivered a Level 5 ‘Train the Trainer’ course in KnowHy Hydrogen Production. The trainees, including representatives from Belfast Metropolitan College, Northern Regional College, Ulster University and Queens University Belfast, have then drawn upon their training to develop and accredit two Level 3 hydrogen courses in Hydrogen Basics/Technologies and H2 Gas Safe. Higher Education partners Queens University

Belfast and Ulster University have expanded their existing hydrogen Continuous Professional Development (CPD) courses and completed a range of research projects at PhD level, which will contribute to future course development and industry application.

The Hydrogen Training Academy partners have also invested in two bespoke training labs to support delivery of the project. H2 Gas Safe Lab, a mobile ATEX lab is the first of its kind in the UK and Ireland and located at Silverwood Industrial Estate, Ballymena. Designed to support applied training at the NI Gas Safe Plumbing and Heating Industry, it provides a practical competence testing space for work with commercial H2 and CH4/H2 blend. The Hydrogen Fuel Cell Skills Lab facilitates training and up-skilling, which impacts a wide range of industries including energy, transport, manufacturing, engineering and construction, and is based at Northern Regional College, Ballymena.

Approximately 110+ representatives from key public and private stakeholders and prospective users have already received demonstrations in the H2 Gas Safe Lab, including representatives from: Wrightbus, Translink, Firmus Gas, Phoenix Gas, SGN, Department for Economy, Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Energia, Engineering Ireland and Gas Networks Ireland.

The Fuelling Future H2 Skills day took place on Zero Emissions day 21 September 2022 at Ecos Hub, Ballymena. Highlighting the success of the Pilot Hydrogen Training Academy project to date and generating interest in training opportunities, the VIP event was attended by 75 delegates from public and private sectors, including government, industry and education.

The Pilot Hydrogen Training Academy was also shortlisted for two awards at the Heating and Ventilation News Awards 2022, under the Training Initiative of the Year and Collaboration of the Year categories. This recognition further demonstrates the innovative nature of the training initiative being developed and scale of collaboration

taking place in such an exciting area of economic growth, both of which are being led by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council. With significant progress being made on safety, production, storage and transportation, the use of green hydrogen opportunities within the sector are being earmarked as one of the most critical ways of reaching Net Carbon Zero and helping to grow the 10X Economy.

Did you know?

• The establishment and supply of a green hydrogen transport network will engage skills in Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering. 48,000 people in 1,600 companies work in this sector in Northern Ireland. It also offers highly skilled jobs, which pay above the NI Private Sector Median.

• The Department for the Economy’s Economic Recovery Action Plan ‘Rebuilding a Stronger Economy’, sets priorities for a more competitive, inclusive and greener economy, and allocates £20m to the Greener Economy.

• The Department for Infrastructure is already working to support hydrogen technology in the transport sector, purchasing hydrogen buses and supporting associated infrastructure.

• Northern Ireland’s Hydrogen capabilities and associated opportunities could play a key contributory role in meeting the priorities identified in the Programme for Government and Industrial Strategy. Source:

12 Days of Christmas Safety Tips

As the festive period looms and many a tradition takes place, here are a few useful tips from our Community Health and Wellbeing team:

1. Make sure your Christmas tree lights conform to the British Standard.

2. Keep candles, lighters and matches out of reach of children and away from furnishings. Do not leave burning candles unattended.

3. Make sure family members and festive visitors know what to do in an emergency.

4. Never overload electrical sockets. Always switch off and unplug Christmas lights before you go to bed.

5. Decorations can burn easily. Do not attach them to lights or heaters.

6. Most fires start in the kitchen; never leave cooking unattended.

7. Remember: the risk of accidents, especially in the kitchen, are greater after alcohol has been consumed.

8. Take time to check on elderly relatives and neighbours at Christmas and make sure they are fire safe.

9. Check the battery in your smoke alarm every week and use Christmas as a reminder to clean it and remove dust.

10. Make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished before bed.

11. Look out for small items that could pose a choking hazard to young children, including parts that have fallen off toys or from Christmas trees.

12. Falls are the most common accidents, so keep clutter to a minimum. Make sure stairs are well lit and free from obstacles, especially if you have guests.

Something for everyone over the festive season

DATE ACTIVITY

Saturday 17 December Christmas Band Concerts, Carrickfergus Town Centre

Christmas Toy Container

During November/ December

This Christmas, why not give those unwanted and pre-loved toys to families facing a more challenging time? Open until 17 December we have our five recycling centres and three leisure centres plus Carrickfergus Enterprise ready to welcome your kind donations.

During November/ December Schools Christmas Recycling Poster Competition

Panto at The Braid Jack and the Beanstalk

9-28 December

We provide free home safety checks for over 65s. Telephone us on 028 2563 3394 or email wellbeing@ midandeastantrim. gov.uk for further information.

During December

Join us for this original rags to riches story with a modern twist and a sprinkling of Cre8 Theatre magic. Have a hoot with our Dame, dance with Daisy Cow and climb the beanstalk with Jack. Come to The Braid Arts Centre, Ballymena with your dancing shoes firmly on and your biggest and best boo’s for the mean old giant!

For details and tickets contact the Braid Box Office on 028 2563 5077 or at www.thebraid.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows

Seasonal music at the bandstand/Harmony Hub Ballymena Town Centre

Christmas Wrap

The excitement of unwrapping gifts is all part of the Christmas magic… and did you know that cardboard packaging, Christmas cards and wrapping paper can then be put into your kerbside box or blue bin for collection?

REMEMBER to do the Scrunch Test! If you scrunch the paper up and it stays in a ball, it can be recycled. If it bounces back, it more than likely contains plastic or another non-recyclable material and should be put into your black bin. Check out this handy video on the scrunch test! www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PBps0ccvXc

Winter cycling with kids – stay safe, stay warm

With the clocks going back and the evenings getting darker, winter is coming - but that doesn’t mean you have to stop cycling. Follow our top tips for cycling with kids in winter.

Be Seen to Be Safe - proper bike lights, reflectors, and hi-vis clothing are essential. Lights help you see where you’re going - but they also let people see you. Make sure lights are fitted correctly and batteries are working.

Wear warm waterproof clothing – keep hands and heads warm by wearing suitable waterproof gear, including warm gloves, snoods, balaclavas or skull caps. Wear layers of clothing and top with a waterproof coat.

Wear a helmet – it goes without saying that you should wear a suitable helmet.

Beware of wet and slippy surfaces – look out for wet leaves, mud, ice and snow and give yourself plenty of braking distance.

WINFor the chance to win a kids cycle safety kit - consisting of a helmet, bike lights and high vis clothing - please email your name, address and contact details under the heading ‘Bike Competition’ to wellbeing@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Mid and East Antrim … a borough for all generations

From initial support in a regional Age-Friendly programme, Mid and East Antrim has now gone global in 2022.

Awarded membership of the World Health Organisation Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities, this strengthens our public commitment and allows our newly appointed Age-Friendly Coordinator Helen McClean to connect with many of our local residents, alongside Elected Member Age-Friendly Champions. Helen observes:

In addition, some successful events were supported by Age-Friendly MEA and delivered by Council’s Parks and Open Space:

‘Dawn Chorus’ and ‘Walk with Birds’ at Carnfunnock, Larne

Button Batteries Safety

Button batteries, in particular big, powerful lithium coin cell batteries, can badly hurt or kill a small child if they swallow one and it gets stuck in their food pipe.

If you think your child has swallowed a button battery, don’t delay, take them to A&E straight away or call 999 for an ambulance.

Don’t let them eat or drink and don’t make them sick.

For more advice see CAPT.org.uk/button-batteries buttonbatterysafety.com

Santa’s little helpers … take note

“After 30 years in Council service, it felt right to use my knowledge and experience to help improve our borough for older people - especially as I am one of them! My background has always been working with the public and I have really enjoyed renewing and making new connections and looking for innovative ways to help link people to the great information and services we have, such as MEA Agewell Partnership, which offers several fantastic projects for our residents including their *Handyman Scheme, Scam Savvy and Good Morning services.”

‘Open Day’ Activities at Mens Shed at People’s Park, Ballymena

‘Forage and Chat’ with Forage NI in Jubilee Wood, Whitehead

For those of you assisting the ‘Dear Santa’ lists, here’s a few safety tips when choosing toys:

• Know who you are buying from – is your supplier recognised as providing safe and reliable toys?

• Always read the warnings and instructions

• Check the toys are for children and follow the age recommendations

• Consider any special needs and if the toy is appropriate

• Check for product recalls at www.gov.uk/guidance/ product-recalls-and-alerts

For further details log onto www.gov.uk/guidance/ child-safety-buying-toys-this-christmas

In April 2022, Age-Friendly training was delivered to Council’s Senior Managers teamed with Mid and East Antrim Agewell Partnership. A bespoke Reflective SelfAssessment Toolkit was developed with funding from Public Health Association (PHA) for:

• Age simulation equipment such as gloves, glasses and mobility suits for use in raising awareness and training.

• Four Age-Friendly benches to be sited in relevant locations in the borough.

• A Supply of Radar Keys to allow access to facilities.

• Age-Friendly MEA window signage indicating completion of assessment and actions taken.

July launched our Age-Friendly survey with PHA, aimed at creating an Age-Friendly borough for older people to live full, active, valued and healthy lives. Targeted at the over-50s, this programme to highlight both positives and challenges, included some pop up sessions in Larne, Carrickfergus and Ballymena . The results have been fed into our 3-year Age-Friendly Action Plan, due for release soon.

Welcoming representatives from community, voluntary and statutory organisations alongside interested individuals, will form an MEA Age-Friendly Alliance - working together to ensure our older generation remains active, respected and supported throughout our borough.

If you are keen to get involved, please contact Helen on on 028 2826 2353 or emailing age.friendly@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

If exchanging your vows at an historic thatched cottage, or perhaps overlooking The Gobbins cliff path sounds like everything you’ve been dreaming of, then look no further.

Nestled in rural Cullybackey sits historic Arthur Cottage, the ancestral home of Chester Alan Arthur, 21st President of the United States of America. This traditional homestead can host up to 12 guests or the option of a garden ceremony welcoming 32 guests. Savour the open fire then venture outside to the apple orchard for some memorable photographs within a beautiful intimate setting.

Located along the Causeway Coastal Route in Carrickfergus, Andrew Jackson Cottage and US Rangers Museum offers a charming wedding location. Choose from tying the knot inside the Donaldson homestead which accommodates 12 guests, invite 32 guests for a

garden ceremony or march up the aisle in the US Rangers Museum in the presence of up to 32 guests.

Finally, for those brave enough to embrace the elements, the viewing platform at The Gobbins cliff path can welcome you and up to 17 guests to exchange vows overlooking the stunning scenery of the dramatic East Antrim coastline. Prepare to dazzle your guests with uninterrupted views across the North Channel as you celebrate your special day.

Each unique venue will host one wedding per day guaranteeing an exclusive experience. Your wedding will not only be unforgettable, it will be part of history.

For the above venue hire charges and wedding ceremony enquiries please contact:

Arthur Cottage:

The Braid Visitor Information Centre, Tel: 028 2563 5010 or tic.reception@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Andrew Jackson Cottage & US Rangers Museum: Carrickfergus Castle Visitor Information Centre, Tel: 028 9335 8262 or visitorinfo@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

The Gobbins Viewing Platform: The Gobbins Visitor Centre, Tel: 028 9337 2318 or info@thegobbinscliffpath.com

2023 at The Gobbins - A taste of what’s to come!

The Gobbins Cliff Path brings you to the edge of the Irish Sea – and sometimes over it – via a network of 23 bridges and walkways that traverse caves, tunnels and steps carved directly into the cliff face. With visitor numbers thriving in 2022, we look forward to the New Year with optimism and determination to make 2023 at The Gobbins the best year to date!

A unique and incredible experience for visitors all over the world, The Gobbins is set to become even more thrilling with exciting plans to further develop the dramatic coastal walk as an integral part of the revamped Causeway Coastal Route. The route now features over 40 new experiences in Mid and East Antrim including two new visitor hubs in Whitehead/Islandmagee and Glenarm/Carnlough.

To experience a journey through time and into the elements, book your tickets in advance now at www.thegobbinscliffpath.com

Local events in traditional surroundings

Why not while away an afternoon preparing delicious chutney, learn the art of felt brooch making or celebrate Burns Night with an authentic neeps and tatties griddle dish? Events have limited availability so pre-booking is essential through our Visitor Information Centres (VIC).

Winter Foraging Walk

14.01.23

TBC

Arthur Cottage, Cullybackey

Join Dermot Hughes from Forage Ireland as you explore rural Cullybackey to forage for winter seasonal ingredients, finishing at Arthur Cottage for a warmth by the fire and savor something straight off the griddle. Contact Ballymena VIC at tic.reception@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk or call 028 2563 5010.

Burns Night Celebration

25.01.23

TBC

Arthur Cottage,

Cullybackey

Enjoy a night of celebrations at Arthur Cottage to celebrate Burns Night, from a lesson in Ulster Scots to sampling traditional neeps and tatties off the griddle and much more. Contact Ballymena VIC at tic.reception@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk or call 028 2563 5010.

Chutney Making Demonstration

28.01.23

TBC

Andrew Jackson Cottage, Carrickfergus

Join Dermot Hughes from Forage Ireland as he talks you through seasonal chutney making recipes. Contact Carrickfergus Castle VIC at visitorinfo@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk or call 028 9335 8262.

Valentines Shortbread and Storytelling

11.02.23 12pm-2pm

Arthur Cottage, Cullybackey and Andrew Jackson Cottage, Carrickfergus

For further details please contact contact Carrickfergus Castle VIC at visitorinfo@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk or call 028 9335 8262 or Ballymena VIC at tic.reception@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk or call 028 2563 5010.

Felt Brooch Making Workshop

04.03.23

TBC

Arthur Cottage, Cullybackey

For further details please contact VIC at tic.reception@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk or call 028 2563 5010.

Felt Brooch Making Workshop

11.03.23

TBC Andrew Jackson Cottage, Carrickfergus

For further details please contact Carrickfergus Castle VIC at visitorinfo@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk or call 028 9335 8262.

Visitor Information Centres (VIC):

Ballymena Visitor Information Centre:

T: 028 2563 5077

Follow in St Patrick’s footsteps

Why not join us on Friday 17 March 2023 for our annual St Patrick’s pilgrimage, scaling the slopes of Slemish Mountain whilst enjoying the spectacular views. For further information visit www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/StPatricksDay

Carrickfergus Visitor Information Centre: T: 028 9335 8222

Larne Visitor Information Point: T: 028 2826 0395

Ever dreamt of getting married at an iconic licensed venue that offers a truly unique wedding experience?

Paula McAuley is from Larne and has just taken up the role of Macmillan Move More Coordinator at Mid and East Antrim Borough Council. A passionate advocate of the benefits of physical activity Paula wants to inspire people living with cancer in the borough to give the Move More programme a try.

Move More supports people who have had a cancer diagnosis to get active and stay active. Physical activity is safe during and after most types of cancer treatment and can help to reduce the side effects of treatment and prevent the occurrence of other long-term conditions.

Paula is working across leisure facilities in Larne, Carrickfergus and Ballymena and understands that everyone’s level is different. Key to her role is encouraging people to go at their own pace and find things they enjoy that will improve their lives:

“It’s a real privilege to be able to help people achieve their goals. For some it can be walking upstairs unaided, for others increasing their lengths in the pool, or completing a longer walk than usual. It’s not about struggling with equipment in the gym or pushing yourself to climb a mountain - it’s about finding the balance that enables you to feel better in your everyday life, particularly after a cancer diagnosis.”

People in the Mid and East Antrim area are supported to try out a range of activities and incentives, including free taster sessions, discounted membership rates, and access for family and friends too.

To find out more about the Macmillan Move More programme in the Mid and East Antrim area, call Paula on 07939 634 434 or email paula.mcauley@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk For support, information, or just a chat, please call the Macmillan Support Line free on 0808 808 0000 or visit macmillan.org.uk

Paula studied sports development and has been working in health and fitness for many years. She also plays netball for her local team and understands the sense of community that comes with being part of a group:

Paula studied sports development and has been working in health and fitness for many years. She also plays netball for her local team and understands the sense of community that comes with being part of a group:

The participants in our Mid and East Antrim Move More programme have developed such incredible camaraderie and friendship. I see myself as the group facilitator, providing opportunities for people to get active, but the group is more than that. People talk about anything and everything, and more often than not, cancer isn’t on the agenda, but everyone knows that it’s a safe space if they need it.

I would encourage anyone who is feeling the impact of cancer on their physical or emotional wellbeing to get in touch with me. Pick up the phone or send me an email and we can have a chat about what you’d like to do and how I can help you get there. I always encourage people to find something that feels comfortable and do what they can.

Mid and East Antrim’s Learn to Swim Academy, MEAqua splashed back into action in September with an expanded programme of swimming sessions. MEAqua now provides lessons to over 1,900 swimmers per week across the borough, for people aged three to 73, with more lessons on the way.

Our structured lessons follow a progressive programme - starting from pre-school sessions (for swimmers aged 3 and 4), children can progress through MEAqua’s Academy program (levels 1-7), and go on to achieve their Lifesaving awards (MEAqua Lifesaving Bronze, Silver and Gold), advanced swimming (levels 8,9,10) or participate in Swim for Fitness lessons in the MEAqua SwimFit sessions.

MEAqua will introduce Parent and Child lessons from January 2023, through a new Tots and Toddlers programme. Introducing little ones as young as three months to the joy of water, they will learn and experience the aquatic world around them through song, play and guided discovery with our wonderful staff. Lessons for MEAqua Tots and Toddlers will be advertised on MEABC and leisure centre social media platforms, as well as the MEActive app, before booking opens mid-December 2022.

Booking for the next period of MEAqua lessons will also open mid-December for start dates in January 2023, advertised extensively on our social media platforms and the MEActive app. We hope to add further lessons to each centre’s current offering as demand is very high for learn to swim programmes.

MEAqua Programme

Seven Towers Leisure Centre

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday – 2pm to 6.30pm (MEAqua Adults Thursdays 7.15pm-9pm) Saturday - 8.30am-12.15pm

Larne Leisure Centre Tuesday to Friday – 2pm to 6.30pm (MEAqua Adults Tuesdays 7.15pm-9pm) Saturdays – 8.30am-12.45pm

Carrickfergus Amphitheatre

Tuesday to Friday – 2.15pm6.15pm (MEAqua Adults Wednesday 7.15pm-9pm) Saturdays – 8.30am-12.45pm

For further details on MEAqua visit our webpage at: www.midandeastantrim.gov. uk/resident/sport-and-leisure/ meaqua-swimming-lessons

All the teachers and staff at MEAqua wish you a swimmingly wonderful Christmas and splashtastic New Year!!!

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has supported more than 400 local businesses on their sustainability and growth journeys since 2019 through our Business Escalator Plus and Digital Boost business support programmes.

Targeted at micro businesses and small/medium sized enterprises (SMEs), both programmes are supported by Invest Northern Ireland and the European Regional Development Fund under the Investment for Growth and Jobs Northern Ireland (20142020) programme.

As part of a suite of Council’s business growth interventions they provide specialist mentoring to encourage local businesses to realise and use their growth potential, aiming to improve productivity, digital inclination and ultimately create jobs in the borough.

Free support is available across a range of areas including:

• Strategic Business Growth

• General Business Planning

• Leadership and Management

• HR and Staff Development

• Financial Management

• Innovation & Marketing

• Sales & Export

• Customer Experience Management

• ICT and E-commerce

Measure of success so far

At the halfway point for the delivery of Council’s Digital Boost and Business Escalator Plus programmes, 421 business have already been successful in accessing specific tailored one-to-one mentoring support in the form of financial management, E-commerce, sales, HR and staff development, digital marketing, website optimisation and strategic growth.

More than 750 mentoring days have been provided to these 421 businesses, with 97% of businesses finding the support beneficial while also creating 163 new jobs.

In addition, we work with a variety of stakeholders to provide wraparound support to fuel further growth with 91 businesses progressing to this stage.

Commenting on the success of the programmes, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Alderman Noel Williams said:

“Business support needs have been at an all-time high given the challenges presented by Covid-19. I would encourage any business in need of support to contact Council’s Business Client Managers to determine support needs and a suitable package of assistance to fuel business growth and development.”

George Armstrong, Director of Scanmatix Ltd, Carrickfergus which specialises in inventory control software and stock management commented:

“We were keen to explore how we could improve our online presence to reach a larger audience both locally, regionally and internationally. Council’s Digital Boost programme allowed us to explore Google advertising, social media marketing and content development. This support has helped us increase our online traffic by 20% and has enabled us to reach new markets and develop new business contacts.”

Lee Turtle and Adrian Stinson, Directors of Ballymena-based L&G Composites Ltd, which manufactures fibre glass products observed:

New funding programme to support peace and prosperity

We are delighted to have been awarded an indicative allocation of over £4.3M under the PEACEPLUS programme. This exciting funding opportunity will be used to co-design a peace action plan benefiting communities across our borough.

The PEACEPLUS programme is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and has been designed to support peace and prosperity across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland, building on the work of previous PEACE and INTERREG Programmes. The local plan will centre around three core themes:

• local community regeneration and transformation

• thriving and peaceful communities

• building respect for all cultural identities.

Phase one of the process is now complete, involving a number of co-design workshops and consultations throughout the borough, giving both residents and community and voluntary organisations the opportunity to provide their ideas and opinions on the needs within their local community.

Phase two of the co-design process starts now and will focus on going back to the community with collective ideas and prioritising the best fit within the programme requirements.

As part of the programme, a PEACEPLUS partnership was also formed in June 2022 comprising 11 elected members, 11 social partners and five statutory bodies. Their role is to oversee the implementation of the co-designed Action Plan for the area. It is anticipated that the Local Action Plan will be ready for submission to SEUPB towards the end of March with projects progressed to delivery stage in the Autumn of 2023.

For more information on the PEACEPLUS Local Action Plan or to get involved you can contact us on Peace@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or telephone 028 2563 3266

To find out more about the support available to your business and how to access free mentoring, make an enquiry today via www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/BusinessSupport

“L&G Composites Ltd was established during the Covid-19 pandemic. We contacted our local Council to establish if there was any support available to assist our business. We worked closely with our Business Client Manager at the Council, who provided us with a tailored package of mentoring support to assist with the financial management of the business, especially as our sales started to take off. Since inception, our business has continued to grow and has created four full time employment positions, as demand for our products has increased. As the business has become larger and staff numbers grew, we were also given support to help us with HR and staff development, which has been of great benefit.”

Simply gifting

Ballymena Town Centre has launched its very own Gift Card – a prepaid private label MasterCard available in both physical and digital card versions.

Dedicated to spend within Ballymena Town Centre, you can purchase this gift card at Fairhill and Tower Centres, plus online at www. ballymenagiftcard.co.uk Shops in Ballymena with a card reader will be able to accept the gift card so why not support local and gift someone a little retail treat.

Don’t forget to download our ShopMEA App free from Google Play or Apple Store or go online and look for shopmea.co.uk Businesses in Mid and East Antrim can also benefit with free business promotion to new customers in-app, online and on street by visiting join.shopmea.co.uk to complete the online registration form. For queries contact shopmea@bubltown.co.uk

MEA Chief Executive along with Members of the PEACEPLUS Partnership Board at the launch of the Consultations.

Consultation opens soon on our new Corporate Plan

Shaping, steering, setting out - just some of the words that sum up our Corporate Plan and its role in creating a better future for all in Mid and East Antrim. Meeting the needs of the borough, its purpose is to deliver on behalf of everyone who lives, works and invests here.

Our third Corporate Plan is currently in development and we will soon be seeking your views on our proposed strategic themes and objectives to take us from 2023 to 2027.

We would encourage all residents and businesses within Mid and East Antrim to feedback through this consultation process and continue the vision that:

Mid and East Antrim will be a strong, vibrant, safe and inclusive community where people work together to improve the quality of life for all.

The consultation period will open for 10 weeks from January 2023 so pick up a questionnaire from one of our main council offices, leisure centres or community centres located across Mid and East Antrim or complete the consultation online at www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Two charities to benefit from Mayor’s support

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Noel Williams, is asking those residents who can, to donate to his chosen charities this Christmas. Schoolchildren’s mental health charity Pure Mental and the Royal Air Forces Association will benefit from donations kindly gifted during his term in office.

I want to thank all residents and businesses who have generously supported my chosen charities so far this year, your generosity is greatly appreciated. Christmas is coming, and for many, it will be very difficult because of increasing food and energy prices and we all are concerned about the future. If you can dig deep and donate to assist these amazing charities – who do so much good work in the local area – it would mean so much and would help some of those children and veterans in our communities most in need.

Youth-led charity Pure Mental, founded by Jay Buntin and Matthew Taylor aims to improve mental health awareness and education by engaging and involving today’s young people.

The Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA), a charity spanning 90 years, provides welfare support to the RAF family through friendship, encouragement and wellbeing support.

Anyone wishing to donate can send a cheque (made payable to Mid & East Antrim Borough Council) or visit www.gov.uk/payments/meabc-mayors-charity/ donate-to-mea-mayors-charity

Your Council

Ballymena

Ald John Carson DUP ald.carson@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr James Henry Independent cllr.henry@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Eugene Reid SDLP cllr.ereid@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Trish O’Lynn Alliance cllr.o’lynn@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Rodney Quigley Independent cllr.quigley@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Matthew Armstrong TUV cllr.armstrong@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Ald Audrey Wales MBE DUP ald.wales@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Bannside

Cllr Timothy Gaston TUV cllr.gaston@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Tom Gordon DUP cllr.gordon@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Ian Friary Sinn Féin cllr.friary@ midandeastantrim.org

Ald Stewart McDonald TUV ald.mcdonald@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Ald William McNeilly UUP ald.mcneilly@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Ald Tommy Nicholl MBE DUP ald.nicholl@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Braid

Cllr Beth Adger MBE Deputy Mayor DUP cllr.adger@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Ald Robin Cherry MBE UUP ald.cherry@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Muriel Burnside Alliance cllr.burnside@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Brian Collins TUV cllr.collins@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Julie Frew DUP cllr.frew@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Christopher Jamieson TUV cllr.jamieson@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr William McCaughey DUP cllr.mccaughey@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Carrick Castle

Ald Billy Ashe MBE DUP ald.ashe@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Lauren Gray Alliance cllr.gray@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Cheryl Johnston DUP cllr.johnston@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Robin Stewart UUP cllr.rstewart@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr John McDermott UUP cllr.mcdermott@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Coast Road

Cllr James McKeown Sinn Féin cllr.mckeown@ midandeastantrim.org

Cllr Maureen Morrow Mayor UUP cllr.morrow@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Ald Gerardine Mulvenna Alliance ald.mulvenna@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Andrew Clarke DUP cllr.clarke@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Angela Smyth DUP cllr.smyth@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Knockagh

Ald Noel Williams Alliance ald.williams@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Peter Johnston DUP cllr.pjohnston@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Marc Collins DUP cllr.mcollins@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Bobby Hadden Independent cllr.hadden@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Andrew Wilson UUP cllr.awilson@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Larne Lough

Cllr Robert Logan Alliance cllr.logan@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Gregg McKeen DUP cllr.mckeen@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Keith Turner UUP cllr.turner@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Ald Paul Reid DUP ald.reid@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Cllr Danny Donnelly Alliance cllr.donnelly@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Find out more about your local councillors at www.midandeastantrim. gov.uk/councillors

DID YOU KNOW? ?

Meetings of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council are recorded, and the audio is available on our website: www.midandeast antrim.gov.uk/audio

40 Councillors, elected in seven District Electoral Areas, working together to create a better future for all in Mid and East Antrim Borough.

Amphitheatre Wellness Centre, Carrickfergus

Seven Towers Leisure Centre, Ballymena

Larne Leisure Centre