Ready to change the face of Ballymena

The area covered by the proposed scheme includes the core retail streets in Ballymena town centre – Ballymoney Street, Broughshane Street, Wellington Street and Church Street.

Minister Storey said: “In our challenging economic climate, towns must continually update and improve in order to remain competitive. This £4million package of works will give Ballymena town centre a much needed boost making it more appealing to the local community and visitors alike.

“This scheme is one of the key elements identified in the Ballymena masterplan and it demonstrates my Department’s commitment to work closely in partnership with the Council and Ballymena Town Centre Development Ltd to improve the fortunes of Ballymena.”

Councillor Audrey Wales, Mayor of Ballymena Borough Council said: “We are delighted to have received funding through the Department for Social development that will allow the public realm to be delivered on the ground beginning January 2015. It follows from surveys where 87% of traders and 74% of shoppers perceived Ballymena town environment as average to poor. This project will assist local business and the town generally, making our commercial core fit for purpose for the next 15 to 20 years.”

Construction is due to begin in January 2015.