Borough’s legacy for print

The idea was mooted at the latest monthly meeting of the local authority last Monday night by Chief Executive Anne Donaghy.

“Members had raised the issue of the local identity of Ballymena and that it remains strong in its role within mid and East Antrim,” said Mrs Donaghy who pointed out that this ‘legacy’ could be contained and promoted through the production of a book.

She suggested that such a publication could feature the milestones reached in the borough over the years; key businesses and characters; political characters and stories; industry including small and large local companies; local geography etc.

Mrs Donaghy informed members that publication could be achieved in 12 months and recommended that Council “move forward” with the project by scoping out the detail, design and cost.

Making her recommendation a proposal, Cllr. Hubert Nicholl, who found a seconder in Cllr. Billy Henry, said: “This is a good idea because Ballymena has a long history and it’s good to record what has gone on before and after joining up with Larne and Carrick. Ballymena needs to have an identity itself.”