Enterprise visitors told Carrick has ‘many great examples of those bucking economic trends’

Councillors were invited to hear at first hand the range of services that the local enterprise agency can offer those considering starting in business as well as those already trading in the borough. They were joined by directors of Carrickfergus Enterprise

Manager Kelli Bagchus provided an insight into what the agency has to offer in terms of flexible/affordable workspace, start-up advice and support, conference facilities and established business support. Chairman Bill Adamson highlighted the company’s strategic plan in light of the many changes that will take place in the foreseeable future including the Review of Public Administration.

Carrickfergus Enterprise and Carrick Council have joined forces on a number of occasions to provide economic development support. Representatives heard how the Business Improvement Programme funded by the local government authority and delivered by Carrickfergus Enterprise is providing vital support to businesses in challenging economic times.

The delegation also visited a number of tenants at the Meadowbank Road site who were bucking the current economic trends. These included Advanced Sensors Ltd which located to the business park in 2005 and is a world leading technology-based company providing instrumentation, detection systems and communication solutions for the oil and gas industries.

A4e Ltd, founded in 1991 is a leading public service provider which works in partnership with government, public sector organisations, voluntary and community groups to deliver a range of front-line services including employment and welfare; training and education; and money and legal advice. A4e provided an overview of a client’s journey through the Steps to Work programme and took the visitors on a tour of their facilities including their administration and training rooms and provided details on the types of activities that take place such as job search and Core Gateway.

Kelli Bagchus commented: “It was great to host the visit by Carrickfergus Borough Council as quite often when giving reports to Council you highlight figures and they often do not see the people behind such statistics. Carrickfergus is open for business and we have many great examples of those bucking the current economic trends such as A4e and Advanced Sensors.”

The afternoon visit finished with Margaret McAtamney of Maggy Tamney who provided a personal viewpoint of her experience when contemplating self-employment and the support provided by Carrickfergus Enterprise.

Thanking the agency and the companies for their welcome, the Mayor Alderman Jim McClurg added: “The visit was a real eye-opener. Carrickfergus Borough Council has always been very supportive of the work of Carrickfergus Enterprise and it’s brilliant to see the difference it makes to local businesses first hand. I was particularly impressed by the way the businesses work together, and I look forward to welcoming new businesses to the Borough.”

If you are considering self-employment or are an existing business looking support contact Kelli or Lorna at the agency on 028 93 369528 or [email protected]