Lisburn is a happy place to live...and our readers agree wholeheartedly

According to a survey by the Office of National Statistics, Northern Irish towns are ranking highly in the happiness stakes, with Lisburn topping the list of local happy towns.

When we asked on Facebook if Lisburn was a happy place, people seemed to agree with the results of the survey.

“When you walk round Lisburn town centre the majority say hi to you or smile at you.

“They open doors and help you if you have dropped something. Unlike Belfast, Lisburn is a happy community,” said Kirsty Madeline Kirkwood.

Another poster, Avril McComb, said the city has a lot of potential. “Lisburn is like your little brother or sister it gets on your wick, but don’t let anyone slag it off.

“We love it (quietly) and we know it has potential.

“Just think how happy we would be if we had cheaper parking and more shops in the town centre.”

This seems to be a popular suggestion, with Tom Porter saying: “Just think how happy we would be if the John Lewis Superstore was allowed to locate at Sprucefield. New roads - reduction in unemployment - competitive pricing on all goods - increased footfall in the greater Lisburn area - the list could go on.”

But, because we aren’t shy, he also added: “Not forgetting the good oul’ Star for keeping us all up to date with the local scandal and the social goings on.”

However, one poster, who calls himself ‘Baldy Oldgit’ was not quite so sure about Lisburn being a happy place to live.

“Jobs lost at Sprucefield, jobs lost at the non-existent sports stadium and the threat of an IRA terrorist shrine sitting on our doorstep and a non-effective council that do nothing to help except attack the motorist who brings money into Lisburn. Yea we’re all singing in the rain. Who forged the results of this poll? Sinn Fein?”

The ONS report suggests that people living in rural areas are happier than those in cities because they enjoy a greater sense of community and easy access to the countryside.

Do you think Lisburn deserves the title of fourth happiest place to live in the UK? What do you love, or hate, about the city? Share your views by emailing [email protected].