Funding package to promote city's evening economy

The money - £115,000 from the Department for Communities and £50,000 from Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council - will be used for the development of a souk-style market at Haslem’s Lane and new city centre signage.

The new Penny Square Market, due to open later this year, will feature several permanent and pop-up stalls, as well as food sellers, live music and a covered seating area.

Part of the revitalisation funding will go towards the creation of a new space for concerts and family events in Dundonald.

Announcing details of the funding package, Communities Minister Paul Givan said the investment will “complement works already undertaken across the council area.”

“I am delighted to be able to announce this further funding for Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council which will target the commercial core of both Lisburn and Dundonald,” Mr Givan said.

“It will support the local traders in Lisburn city centre by helping to promote the evening economy, attracting visitors and residents into the newly renovated city centre.

“The new market will also be a very welcome addition to the city centre. It will no doubt soon become a place of lively trading and a focal point for socialising in the city centre.”

The revitalisation project was developed by officials from the Department for Communities and Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council working alongside local independent traders.

Welcoming the funding, Cllr Uel Mackin, Chair of the council’s Development Committee, said the department and city council are committed to developing Lisburn and Castlereagh as “a thriving business hub and top class tourism destination.”

“The identified initiatives will enhance both Lisburn city centre and Dundonald village, supporting private sector investment which will draw new business to Lisburn city centre and create an event space in Dundonald to enable a varied programme of events to be hosted,” he commented.

Stephen Houston, President of Lisburn Chamber of Commerce, said he was “delighted” with the additional investment in the city centre, describing it as “a very positive sign for the future.”

Mayor Brian Bloomfield added: “Any money coming from the Assembly is money that will be gratefully received.

“I have no doubt that this money will be put to good use to enhance the local environment and boost the local economy.”