Performance Improvements Planned for Mid and East Antrim in 2026/27

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has launched its 2026/27 Performance Improvement Plan, setting out key priorities to improve recycling, public spaces, town centres, accessibility, health and wellbeing across the Borough.

Mid and East Antrim Performance Improvement Plan Launched

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has launched its 2026/27 Performance Improvement Plan, outlining a range of priorities aimed at improving services, supporting communities and enhancing quality of life across the Borough.

The plan focuses on three key Performance Improvement Objectives. These were developed following consultation with stakeholders and are designed to help create safer, cleaner and more attractive public spaces.

It also aims to support health, wellbeing, inclusion and environmental sustainability across Mid and East Antrim.

Council Focuses On Better Services And Stronger Communities

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Thomas Gordon, said the plan reflects the Council’s commitment to delivering high-quality services and positive outcomes for local people.

He said: “Our vision is to be a strong, vibrant, safe and inclusive community, where people work together to improve the quality of life for all.

“The delivery of high-quality services for our residents is important, and we remain committed to improving how we work.

“Partnership working with our residents and other stakeholders will support planned improvements that enhance the quality of life and environment for our ratepayers and communities.”

The Mayor added that the Performance Improvement Plan works alongside the Mid and East Antrim Community Plan and the Council’s Corporate Plan.

He also said the progression of City Deal projects would strengthen tourism assets and grow the Borough’s economic potential.

Recycling Improvements Across Mid and East Antrim

One of the major projects included in the plan is the introduction of a single dry recycling model across the Borough.

This new recycling initiative is due to begin this year and aims to improve recycling services for households while supporting environmental sustainability.

Residents are also being encouraged to play their part by:

• Recycling correctly at home
• Avoiding littering in public spaces
• Taking part in local clean-up events
• Helping keep towns, villages and parks clean
• Supporting efforts to make Council services more accessible

These actions form part of the wider aim to keep Mid and East Antrim clean, attractive and safe for everyone.

Public Spaces And Recreation Facilities To Be Improved

The Mid and East Antrim Performance Improvement Plan also includes investment in public spaces and recreational facilities.

Planned projects include:

• The reopening of the revitalised Carnfunnock Park
• The design of two civic spaces in Ballymena town centre
• Continued development of accessible and inclusive play parks
• Improvements to outdoor recreational spaces

These projects are designed to make public areas more welcoming, accessible and useful for local communities.

Supporting Town Centres And Local Businesses

Supporting town centres and local businesses remains a key priority for the Council.

High streets across Northern Ireland continue to face challenges. As a result, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council says it will continue to deliver initiatives aimed at increasing footfall, encouraging local spending and improving town centre vitality.

This could help support businesses in areas such as Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne, while also making town centres more attractive places to visit.

Accessibility And Inclusion Remain Key Priorities

The Council is also asking residents with knowledge or experience of the needs of disabled people to work with them.

This engagement will help identify and reduce barriers that may prevent people from accessing Council services.

By improving accessibility and inclusion, the Council aims to make services and public spaces more welcoming for all residents.

A Wider Commitment To Continuous Improvement

The 2026/27 Performance Improvement Plan forms part of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s wider commitment to continuous improvement.

The Council says the plan will help ensure the Borough remains a thriving place to live, work and visit.

Residents can view the full Performance Improvement Plan online at: https://www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/PIP]

[Elementor Tip:] Add a clear button below this section saying “View the Full Performance Improvement Plan”. Link it to the Council’s PIP page.

What improvements would you like to see in your local area across Mid and East Antrim? Share your thoughts and help shape cleaner, safer and more welcoming communities.