Ballymena: Seven news businesses since start of the year is really encouraging, says new mayor

Speaking at the first full meeting of the borough council since his appointment as Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Bannside DUP Alderman Tom Gordon welcomed the development reported by Ballymena BID, a business development organisation, to councillors recently, as well as five “fit-outs and refurbishments” also reportedly taking place in the town centre.

Ald Gordon noted a long-term lease, which he said, is understood to have been confirmed at the former Tesco supermarket site at Ballymena’s Church Street.

The mayor also reported new businesses have opened recently in Carrickfergus and Larne, in hospitality, hair and beauty, leisure and retail sectors.

“It really is encouraging that so many new businesses have opened across the three towns,” said Ald Gordon.

In his announcements, he also paid tribute to McGroggan’s ice cream shop which has closed its doors at William Street after trading in Ballymena, for more than a century.

“This much-loved business will be sorely missed from the high street. I wish the owners and those who work there the very best for the future,” he said.

During his opening remarks, the mayor extended congratulations to Ballymena woman Ella McDonald, whom he noted, is preparing to make her professional boxing debut at the Waterfront Hall, in Belfast.

The first citizen also congratulated brother and sister Lacey and Kain Stewart, from Ballymena, who have returned from the WKO European Championships with multiple European titles. His chosen charities during his term in office are Northern Ireland Air Ambulance and Rural Support.

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter