Significant Progress on Belfast Region City Deal Projects in Mid and East Antrim

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Mid and East Antrim is receiving £80 million through the Belfast Region City Deal, funding projects in Carrickfergus, Ballymena, and The Gobbins. These investments will boost the local economy, create jobs, and enhance tourism. 20,000 jobs are expected across the region. Visit www.belfastregioncitydeal.co.uk for more info.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has provided an update on the Belfast Region City Deal (BRCD), highlighting major investments that are set to transform the borough. The latest developments were discussed at a Joint Council Panel meeting, attended by representatives from six partner local authorities.

£80 Million Investment for Mid and East Antrim

Through the £1 billion Belfast Region City Deal, Mid and East Antrim is receiving approximately £80 million in capital investment, funding three key projects:

  • Regeneration of Carrickfergus – Transforming the historic town into a heritage-led tourism hub, enhancing its role as the starting point of the Causeway Coastal Route.
  • i4C Innovation and Cleantech Centre in Ballymena – A new centre aimed at fostering business growth and innovation.
  • Expansion of The Gobbins, Islandmagee – Further developing the world-class coastal attraction to boost tourism.

Boosting the Local Economy

Carrickfergus regeneration is expected to:
✔️ Increase the local economy by £9 million
✔️ Create 155 new jobs in the tourism sector
✔️ Support 140 construction jobs during development
✔️ Increase visitor numbers to Carrickfergus Castle

Progress Across the Region

🔹 Over half of the BRCD projects are now in the delivery phase, creating jobs and attracting private investment.
🔹 Construction work is underway on key projects, including:

  • iREACH Health in Belfast
  • Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre at Global Point, Newtownabbey
    🔹 Studio Ulster at Belfast Harbour Studios will fully open this year, positioning Northern Ireland as a leader in digital content and immersive technologies.

Industry and Skills Development

Professor Frank Lyons from Ulster University presented insights into the Creative Industries Skills Assessment, addressing key challenges like:
✔️ Talent development
✔️ Digital skills adoption
✔️ Stronger industry-education collaboration

A Gamechanger for the Region

The £1 billion BRCD programme—funded by the UK Government, NI Executive, BRCD partners, and private sector investment—aims to:
✔️ Create 20,000 new and better-paid jobs
✔️ Drive inclusive economic growth across Northern Ireland

For further details, visit www.belfastregioncitydeal.co.uk.

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Significant Progress on Belfast Region City Deal Projects in Mid and East Antrim

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