The completion of a number of regeneration projects in Larne town centre – including a pop-up park on a previously derelict site on Main Street, carrying out environmental improvements at Dunluce Street, and grant support for local businesses to improve their shopfronts – has been welcomed by Communities Minister, Gordon Lyons.

The projects were delivered by the Department for Communities in partnership with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.

The Department provided a £331,945 investment, with the council investing a total of £35,805.

Minister Lyons said: “It is encouraging to see how a number of small regeneration projects can collectively make a difference to a town centre for residents, visitors, and local businesses. My Department has worked with the council to deliver these initiatives, which are helping to enhance the centre of Larne.

Pictured at the new pop-up park on Main Street in Larne are (l-r) Ald. Thomas Gordon, Mayor of Mid & East Antrim Borough Council; Eamon McMullan, Capital Regeneration Manager, MEABC; Ryan Black, Director of Growth & Major Projects, MEABC; Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA; Gail Kelly, Town Centre Development Manager, MEABC. Photo: DfC

placeholder image — Pictured at the new pop-up park on Main Street in Larne are (l-r) Ald. Thomas Gordon, Mayor of Mid & East Antrim Borough Council; Eamon McMullan, Capital Regeneration Manager, MEABC; Ryan Black, Director of Growth & Major Projects, MEABC; Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA; Gail Kelly, Town Centre Development Manager, MEABC. Photo: DfC

“The new pop-up park, created on a previously derelict site, has transformed an unused space into an attractive community asset. Whilst the Dunluce Street area continues to face challenges, this investment has helped improve its appearance and contributes to a cleaner, more attractive streetscape.

"I am also pleased to see local businesses benefiting from the latest Revitalisation Shopfront Improvement Grant Scheme, which is helping to enhance the overall look and feel of the town centre.”

Partnership working is “essential” to driving regeneration and investment across the borough, said Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Thomas Gordon. “This investment in Larne has created new opportunities for businesses and residents alike, helping to strengthen the town centre and enhance the experience for everyone who visits,” he added.

"The improvements to shop fronts, together with the creation of a pop-up park, have made the town centre a more attractive and welcoming place, giving young children a space to play while families and friends enjoy shopping and dining together.

“I would like to commend the businesses and community organisations that have worked with our council teams to help transform Larne town centre. Larne already has so much to offer in terms of its culture and strong community spirit, and these improvements will help build on those strengths for the future.”