Antrim and Newtownabbey: Commemorative discs to mark 110th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has agreed a commemoration to mark the 110th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme which occurs on July 1.
The local authority is to install commemorative discs in each of its district electoral areas (DEAs) in recognition of the landmark anniversary.
The Battle of the Somme was one of the largest of the First World War. It took place between July 1 and November 18, 1916.
A report presented to last month’s Community Development Committee meeting said the council marks this anniversary annually by lighting up civic buildings and a visit by a delegation to the Somme region in France.
The commemorative discs are to be installed at Barbican Gate, Antrim; Kiln Park, Templepatrick; Ollar Park Roundabout, Ballyclare; Randalstown War Memorial; Lilian Bland Park or Sandyknowes Roundabout, Glengormley; roundabout at Coronation Garden and Jordanstown Road, Monkstown.
They are to remain in place until the end of August. They will be installed at an estimated cost of £1,650.
Speaking at the meeting, Antrim DUP Councillor Paul Dunlop BEM said he was “more than happy” to move the report. He asked if there were other events planned.
A director said the annual trip to the Somme was the only “activity” planned.
“We haven’t been instructed by members through this committee to do anything for the 110th anniversary apart from sending the delegation to the Somme and there is a range of activities taking place in relation to preparations for that.
“At this stage of the year, there is no budget provision and quite limited time to pull anything together.”
Threemilewater DUP Alderman Stephen Ross said he was “happy to second”.
He reminded members there will be an invitation to a commemoration event at the County Antrim War Memorial at Knockagh on June 28.
It is anticipated the mayor, deputy mayor and one elected member from each of the political parties, one Independent member and officers will participate in the visit to the Somme region for the landmark anniversary.
The trip includes educational visits to key sites where local regiments fought and individuals from the borough lost their lives.
The sum of £15k has been set aside by the local authority for the trip. If other councillors wish to participate, they must pay their own expenses.
Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter