Independent candidate dreams of a theme park at the Maze

Mr Orr ran as an independent candidate in last year’s local government election but failed to win a seat.

He officially announced his intention to run for election on his Facebook page and he has also launched a crowdfunding page to raise the £500 needed to run in the election.

“When I was a little boy I loved going to Leisureworld on Bow street with my birthday and Christmas money to buy toys,” he said. “It’s gone now along with a lot of other things the town of Lisburn had to offer. That’s kind of sad.

“I have this feeling, this vision of seeing Lisburn coming alive again. I can picture carnivals, street races, big halloween events like haunted houses, ghost walks and zombie apocalypses. Kick ass super hero, sci fi and cosplay conventions, Street parties, outdoor music events in the city centre, those big Chinese festivals with the cool dragons, fireworks and music would be awesome to host here.

“The little things to0.. like somewhere to have a coffee with friends at night and to play a board game. Or maybe just somewhere to read a book when you can’t sleep at night.

“My big, big long term dream is to see the Maze prison site become a theme park. Some will say no chance but let me remind you Lisburn once had the biggest linen factory in the world. We were a world leader once upon a time. I want that status, feeling, that incredible drive and ambition back in this city. We can do it.

“All the pieces of the puzzle are here. We need to unite once again and get to work creating, building and celebrating life. I will spend my life working to make this dream happen or die trying. Despite the mean things I say about Lisburn sometimes (we all do), I love this City and its people. I love inspiring people and being inspired by people.

“Before she passed away, my grandmother told me my purpose in life was to bring people together. I will run a campaign that would make her proud.”