End of an era for city council

While this is an exciting time for local government it is also a time of reflection as the sitting Lisburn City Council draws to a close.

To coincide with the end of this era, a number of events are planned to mark the occasion including the final Full Council Meeting and Evening Reception, celebrating the Council and Community, on March 28 and on April 1, the first meeting of the new Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council will take place at 11am, when the new Mayor, Councillor Thomas Beckett will be installed into Office.

This will be followed by a Tree Planting Ceremony and a Lunch to mark the symbolic date.

Outgoing Mayor, Councillor Andrew Ewing, paid tribute to all the councillors, past and present, who have given so much to the council since its inception in 1973.

“There are so many wonderful memories throughout the past four decades here in the Borough of Lisburn and we are justifiably proud of all that has been achieved,” said Mr Ewing.

“Since the formation of the Lisburn Borough in 1973 our towns and villages have seen unprecedented change and growth.

“The opening of the Lagan Valley LeisurePlex in 1999, the Official Opening of Lagan Valley Island by her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 2001, the awarding of City Status in 2002 and the City being awarded the European City of Sport in 2013, are just some of the important milestones for our City.

All of these things did not come about by chance but by the dedicated efforts of all those involved, including elected members, Council Officers and not least our community partners.

“As Lisburn City Council ends, our new Council starts its journey.

“I would like to thank everybody who has played their part down through the years, in making our City the success it is today.

“As one chapter ends, another one begins and I am confident that the City will continue to grow with the support of all our citizens in both Lisburn and Castlereagh.”