RESIDENTS' MAGAZINE // MAY 2025
DECADE OF DELIVERY
Celebrating 10 Years of the Council
CELEBRATING VE DAY 80
A Special Programme of Events
GARDEN SHOW IRELAND
Flowers, Food and Fun
Flowers, Food & Fun
Mayor's Message
Welcome to the latest edition of Borough Life, your resident magazine bringing you the latest news and events from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.
As we step into spring, there's an exciting line-up of activities for everyone to enjoy. This season, we're proud to host a programme of events to commemorate VE Day 80, while Garden Show Ireland makes a vibrant return to Antrim Castle Gardens for a three-day Festival of Flowers, Food, and Fun — this year joined by our new show ambassador, David Domoney.
We are also delighted to celebrate the incredible achievements of several local volunteer groups who have been honoured with the King's Award for Voluntary Service — a true testament to the community spirit that defines our Borough.
Meanwhile, a £120k refurbishment of the fitness suite at Crumlin Leisure Centre marks another step in our commitment to providing first-class leisure facilities. This dedication was recently recognised at the NILGA Awards, where our leisure team received the Service Innovation and Improvement Award for their outstanding transformation of leisure services.
Finally, as my term as Mayor draws to a close, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to all of you for your kindness and support throughout the past year. It has been both an honour and a privilege to serve in this role and to meet so many remarkable people who help make Antrim and Newtownabbey an award-winning Borough.
Councillor Neil Kelly
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey
£120k MORE Investment in Crumlin
Leisure Centre
Crumlin Leisure Centre is celebrating a major transformation following a £120,000 investment, bringing exciting new enhancements to the facility. The newly upgraded fitness suite now boasts a bright, modern space equipped with cutting-edge Technogym cardio and resistance machines.
New members are welcome to explore the upgraded fitness suite and experience first-hand all that Crumlin Leisure Centre has to offer:
• State-of-the-art Fitness Suite
• Indoor Cycle Studio
• Fitness Classes
• Parent and Toddler Classes
• 3G Pitches
• Birthday Party Bookings
Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, take part in a class, or book a special event, Crumlin Leisure Centre has something for everyone.
Your Parks, Your Say
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough is home to 29 award-winning Green Flag parks and open spaces. We want these community areas to be enjoyed by all, and we are committed to making them better.
Our vision for these parks is to ensure they are rich in nature and biodiversity while incorporating sustainable environmental practices. We aim to create fun and accessible spaces for everyone — families playing, dog walkers staying active, community members connecting through events and visitors coming to enjoy our wonderful events and rich heritage.
We would really welcome your feedback on how to improve our existing parks and create new ones. Your feedback is vital to shaping the future of our parks, keeping them vibrant and relevant.
We also encourage community participation in caring for these spaces, ensuring they remain a key part of our community for both current and future generations.
For more information visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/parks
Best Kept Garden Competition
Are you a keen gardener? If so, why not get involved in this year's Best Kept Garden Competition, where you can showcase you beautiful garden in one or more of our categories.
Entries will be accepted from 12 May until 21 July 2025.
For more information and full details, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /bestkeptgarden
Help Us Grow Friends of the Coronation Garden Seeking Volunteers
If you have a passion for gardening and nature, we would love you to join the Friends of the Coronation Garden group!
We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help maintain and enhance the beauty of the Coronation Garden at Hazelbank Park. Whether you have years of gardening experience or are just starting out, your contribution will be greatly valued. There's no minimum time commitment — every little bit helps!
The group's initial focus will be on planting flowers and keeping the garden wellmaintained, ensuring it remains a cherished and welcoming space for visitors of all ages. Volunteering is a great way to connect with nature, meet like-minded people, and make a positive impact on your local community.
For more information visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or E. parksadmin@ antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
15 Years of Theatre at The Mill
Theatre at The Mill is marking its 15th anniversary this year, celebrating a decade and a half of delivering diverse, high-quality live performances to the community. Since opening on January 30, 2010, the 400-seat venue, nestled within the historic Mossley Mill just 10 minutes from Belfast, has become a cultural hub, blending 19th-century charm with modern amenities like free parking, a licensed bar, and food-service facilities.
Acquired by Newtownabbey Borough Council in 1996, the site underwent extensive restoration, culminating in the theatre's grand opening featuring the Ulster Orchestra in 2010.
Over the years, Theatre at The Mill has hosted a wide array of performances and to celebrate this milestone, the Theatre has curated its most exciting programme yet, including:
• Kenton Cool – Everest: The Untold Story (3 June)
• Summerfest at The Mill with Rock Choir (7 June)
• Twisted! The Musical (17-19 October)
• Christmas Shows Belfast Actually 2 and Robin Hood The Panto.
For more information or to book tickets visit theatreatthemill.com
Thursday 8 May 2025 marks 80 years since VE Day (Victory in Europe) when the Second World War came to an end in Europe. The Council has a special programme of events from Wed 7 – Sun 11 May to celebrate this significant anniversary.
Check out our social channels at ANBorough and website for photos as the events unfold. antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/veday80
‘Our Borough’ PEACEPLUS Projects
The PEACEPLUS Programme builds on the success of previous PEACE and INTERREG initiatives. Managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), PEACEPLUS is a collaborative funding partnership between the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive.
The SEUPB has allocated £4.4m to Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council to deliver the Antrim and Newtownabbey PEACEPLUS Local Community Action Plan. This funding will support community activities and infrastructure projects aimed at fostering peace and reconciliation across the Borough. The plan is designed to engage at least 5,110 participants, promoting meaningful, purposeful, and sustained contact between people from different communities.
The new Antrim and Newtownabbey PEACEPLUS Programme is a locally driven response to the needs identified by the community. Co-designed with input from local residents, it aims to make a lasting impact at the grassroots level.
The PEACEPLUS Programme was officially launched in the Borough on 30 January 2025, with a special event at Theatre at The Mill. This event introduced nine strategic programmes developed under the 'Our Borough' brand. These programmes are supported by five key themes:
• Our ‘Active’ Borough
• Our ‘Future’ Borough
• Our ‘Historical’ Borough
• Our ‘Inclusive’ Borough
• Our ‘Shared’ Borough.
These five themes form the foundation of the action plan, creating a network of interconnected programmes that offer opportunities for both individual and collective growth. The aim is to foster development across these themes, ensuring that the action plan not only addresses immediate needs but also helps participants build skills, knowledge, and create lasting legacies within their communities.
For more information, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/peaceplus
L-R: Wendy Kerr Vice-Chairperson of PEACEPLUS Partnership, Paul Sheridan Corporate Services Director of Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), Pam Cameron MLA and Junior Minister, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor Neil Kelly, Aisling Reilly MLA and Junior Minister, Gobhnait Swift on behalf of the Minister of Rural and Community Development Dara Calleary TD, Deputy Mayor Councillor Paul Dunlop BEM, Councillor Mark Cooper BEM Chairperson of PEACEPLUS Partnership.
Funding Available to Keep Our Communities Safe
Antrim and Newtownabbey Policing and Community Safety Partnership recently launched a Community Safety Small Grants Programme.
Funding of up to £1,000 has been made available to encourage not-for-profit, community and voluntary organisations in the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough to address local community safety issues through innovative and impactful local solutions.
Applications can be made under one or several of the following themes:
Anti-Social Behaviour
Projects which will prevent, reduce or address antisocial behaviour across the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough area.
Community Vulnerability
Projects which support vulnerable people and/or communities and address such issues as hate crime, domestic and sexual violence, substance abuse, isolation and loneliness.
Road Safety
Projects which address and raise awareness around particular areas of concern in relation to road safety.
Confidence in Policing
Projects which will increase confidence in policing by developing and enhancing opportunities for engagement between local communities and the PSNI.
Eligible projects must be completed and delivered by Tuesday 31 March 2026.
Please note applications will close on Friday 16 May 2025. To apply visit antrimandnewtownabbey.flexigrant.com
For more information contact Antrim and Newtownabbey PCSP; E. PCSP@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
End Violence Against Women and Girls
Violence against women and girls is a systemic and deep-rooted problem in our society. It is often hidden in plain sight, yet its impact is felt daily.
We proudly support the End Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) campaign, a vital initiative led by the Northern Ireland Executive. To date, the Council, supported by The Executive Office has delivered a range of impactful events, including an evening with Olympian Ciara Mageean, a women's health and safety session and training with Professor Jane Monckton Smith OBE on understanding coercive control and domestic abuse risk patterns.
In collaboration with photo journalist, Kathryn Torney the powerful “One Day. One Refuge.” exhibition was brought to life, highlighting the lived experiences of women affected by domestic abuse and will be displayed in various locations across Northern Ireland.
Through the Change Fund, the Council is supporting local organisations to raise awareness, promote healthy relationships, and help women and girls feel safe.
There is something everyone can do – Let's get started.
For more infomation visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /END
Five Local Groups Honoured with King's Award
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is delighted to announce that all five groups nominated for the prestigious King's Award for Voluntary Service have been successful. This year's winners are: All About Us – ASD Teens, Queenspark Women's Group, Randalstown Ulster Scots Cultural Society, Monkstown Village Initiatives, and The Breakaways. This award is the highest recognition for volunteer groups in the UK and celebrates exceptional service to local communities. Each of these groups has made a lasting difference through their dedication, compassion, and commitment. Congratulations to all involved on this outstanding achievement.
Queenspark Women's Group
Randalstown Ulster Scots Cultural Society
The Breakaways
Monkstown Village Initiatives
All About Us - ASD Teens
Out and About With the Mayor
Visiting St. Comgall's in Antrim for our Healthy Kids programme
Learning the Ceili during Irish Language Week
Launching our Parks Survey at Hazelbank Park
The Mayor joined by Theatre manager, Katherine Gardiner to celebrate 15 Years since the opening of the Theatre at The Mill
Celebrating St Patrick's Day at Antrim Castle Gardens
Kick your way to success workshop at Allen Park with Oisín McConville and John Cooney
Council wins Local Government NILGA Award for Leisure Services
Be Safe, Be Well Event at the Dunadry Hotel and Gardens
Joining the Mums on the Move Winter Wellness Event
Visiting the Camden Group in Antrim
The Loneliness Network Spring Social
Giving Secretary of State Hilary Benn a tour of Antrim Castle Gardens
Commonwealth Flag Raising at Antrim Civic Centre
Northern Ireland Prison Service Exhibition
Business & Regeneration
Regenerating Your Glengormley
Exciting regeneration works continue to deliver a more attractive and enticing town centre.
Farmley Road/Glenwell
Works are well underway to upgrade Farmley Road car park and adjacent parking area through to the Glenwell Road exit. Upgrades include enhanced pedestrian access and walkways, realigned car parking and roadway, new lighting and landscaping.
Phased works will ensure as much of the car park remains open as possible with construction due to be completed in late summer. Businesses will remain trading as usual.
Public Realm Scheme
We will deliver a public realm scheme throughout the centre of Glengormley which will upgrade footpaths, lighting, benches and planting, and improve road surfacing. We anticipate this work will commence in early 2026.
Space Glengormley
This exciting project is taking shape with Space Glengormley due to be operational in early 2026. This landmark building on the old PSNI site, will deliver three floors of dedicated workspace for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
To find out more, E. investment@ antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or visit space-ni.co.uk.
For more information visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/yourglengormley
Labour Market Partnership
More than 3,000 residents have engaged with the activities and programmes of our Labour Market Partnership (LMP) in the past nine months.
Funded by the Department for Communities and the Council, LMP delivers a range of employability and skills activities, supporting people towards and into work.
LMP continues to see success through employability programmes and jobs fairs, including:
• Supporting 68 residents across seven sector-based academies
• Engaging 27 residents on the Pathway Programme
• Welcoming 2,760 attendees across Job Fairs
• Engaging 1,136 young people through the Careers and Apprenticeships Fair and “Inspo” Programme
• Committing to upskilling 23 residents through our Classroom Assistant Upskilling Academy
• Awarding upskilling funding to six local businesses, supporting careers of 23 people.
Some great feedback was received for our hugely successful Careers and Apprenticeship Fair on 4 February:
“It motivated my son into looking at career possibilities he didn't know existed. Thank you for the enormous effort your team made by investing in young adults who will soon be entering the workforce."
For more information E. skills@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
Artist's impression
AccelerateHER
On Friday 7 March local businesswomen came together to celebrate International Women's Day at the ‘AccelerateHER – women shaping tomorrow, today!’ event, supported by Go Succeed.
Attendees heard from keynote speakers and fireside panel, networked over lunch, took part in wellness sessions and sought advice on topics including access to finance, business support and Council programmes.
This wonderful event was defined by new connections, generation of ideas, and a sense of empowerment.
Multiply Programme
The Council has completed delivery of the Multiply Programme, in collaboration with the Department for the Economy. This programme offered an exciting range of numeracy initiatives to help participants build confidence and improve numeracy skills, to enhance career prospects, support education and help in everyday tasks.
AMIC Factory of the Future
Construction is progressing on the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) ‘Factory of the Future’ at Global Point.
The £100m project, delivered as part of Belfast Region City Deal, led by Queen's University with a £10m Council investment, will drive economic growth and prosperity across the Borough and Northern Ireland.
It will bring high quality jobs and attract inward investment in the advanced manufacturing sector locally and provide a specialised environment and access to the latest technology.
For more information E. investment@ antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
From December 2024 to March 2025, with delivery partners Sentinus and Workforce Training Services, workshops designed to meet the diverse needs of residents including mature learners and maths for speakers of other languages, were delivered to 500 participants.
For more information visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/multiply
Business & Regeneration
Revitalising Outdoor Spaces
Doagh Square, Anderson Park, and Burnside River Walk have undergone a remarkable transformation through an Environmental Improvement Scheme managed by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council. These areas are now vibrant outdoor spaces where residents and visitors alike can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. The project features upgraded pathways and cycleways, enhanced landscaping, inviting seating areas, public art, and outdoor learning areas for schools, playgroups and nursery units to enjoy. These improvements not only preserve the area’s unique character but also enhance accessibility, making the community spaces more welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.
Transforming Today for Tomorrow’s Success!
Through our Digital Innovation programmes we are helping businesses identify efficiencies, reduce costs, and improve competitiveness.
• ASK Business Mentoring – 10 hours of free expert advice.
• Digital Transformation Flexible Fund (DTFF) – Up to £20,000 to support investment in digital transformation.
• Digital Factory Accelerator – A funded Smart Industry Readiness Index (SIRI) assessment that identifies significant savings & efficiencies.
These businesses are now reaping the rewards.
Antrim’s Savvy & Shine used DTFF funding to develop AI scalp analysis, delivering tailored treatments to clients.
Antrim’s Golden Popcorn introduced a robotic arm and new manufacturing systems, cutting downtime and increasing efficiency.
For more information visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/digital-innovation
Space Antrim is Going From Strength to Strength!
The new 16,000sq ft flexible workspace, occupying the former Wellworths building in Antrim town centre, has been welcoming entrepreneurs, business start ups, SMEs and innovators through its doors since its opening in November 2024.
As a state of the art facility, Space offers face to face meetings and collaboration across our spacious board rooms or modern hot desk areas. You can also rent a dedicated office with flexible terms, or hire an event space.
The online booking system is now open! You can view and book according to your needs via space-ni.co.uk, on Instagram: @spacetoworkni, or call 0800 009 6257.
Space Antrim is one of two workspace projects in the Borough, with the sister project located in Glengormley coming in Spring 2026. Council secured a further £3.9m from the UK Government towards this sister hub.
Take a Break, Take a Seat
Following a successful pilot scheme in Antrim and Ballyclare, the Council is excited to expand its ‘Take a Seat’ campaign across the Borough. This initiative encourages local businesses and community facilities to offer a seat to anyone needing a rest while shopping or passing by.
Participating businesses will display stickers on their doors or windows to show their support. Those wishing to take advantage of the scheme are welcome to sit and rest without being under any obligation to make a purchase. This initiative is all about making our communities more accessible and age-friendly.
For more information visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/take-a-seat
Stay Safe in the Garden
Longer evenings are perfect for tackling those garden jobs but don't forget to put safety first while working outdoors.
• Make sure paths and steps are well lit and in good repair to avoid trips and falls.
• Only use barbecues, fire-pits and chimineas outdoors and ensure children nearby are supervised at all times. Fully extinguish flames and ensure ashes are cold before binning.
• Never transfer garden chemicals into other containers. Keep them in their original packaging and ensure safety instructions are visible.
• Use tools safely, follow instructions and wear
protective gear. Ensure others are a safe distance away from any falling debris or branches while you work.
• Safety guards should be in place before using power tools. Unplug electrical tools and allow petrol powered tools to come to a complete stop before disconnecting grass boxes or servicing them.
• Never use electric tools in wet or damp locations. Outdoor lighting should be waterproof and rated for outdoor use.
• Use a suitable ladder for height work – check its condition, ensure it's on a level surface and keep one hand on it at all times.
For more information visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/homesafety
The Mayor launching ‘Take a Seat’ scheme with Environmental Health Officer Kelly Doyle
Speak Up, Stay Safe: Navigating
Food Allergies with Confidence
Food allergies can be life-threatening, so clear communication is key when dining out or shopping for food.
Speaking up helps prevent accidental exposure and keeps you safe.
Scan the QR code to watch a helpful video for consumers on making an allergen request
Quick Tips for Making an Allergen Request:
Be Clear & Direct: Say, “I have a peanut allergy. Does this dish contain peanuts or come into contact with them?”
Ask About CrossContamination: Even allergenfree dishes may be prepared on shared equipment.
Call Ahead: Some restaurants need extra time to accommodate special requests.
Carry Emergency Medication: Always have your prescribed allergy medication with you.
Glow Safely: Care in the Sun
With brighter days and warmer weather, many of us are spending more time outdoors – whether it's at the beach or in your back garden. But even on cloudy days, UV rays from the sun can damage our skin and increase the risk of skin cancer, the most common cancer in Northern Ireland.
The UV index tells us how strong the sun's rays are. When it hits 3 or above, it's time to protect your skin and eyes. You can check the daily UV index at www.metoffice.gov.uk/UV
If you are out and about this summer:
• Stay in the shade between 11am and 3pm
• Cover up with lightweight fabrics
• Wear a broad-brim hat
• Wear glasses with 100% UV protection
• Apply sunscreen with at least SPF15 and a 4 or 5-star UVA rating
Protecting your skin now reduces your risk of skin cancer later. For more information visit careinthesun.org
Repair and Reuse Fayre
In March 2025 Northern Ireland Launched its First Repair Week!
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council was proud to support the inaugural Northern Ireland Repair Week, inviting everyone to extend the life of their cherished items and reduce waste. The Repair & ReUse Fayre took place on Friday 7 March at The Junction, Antrim.
This community-focused event was an opportunity to promote sustainability by encouraging everyone to make repairs, rather than discarding items. The event was enjoyed by all and well attended, highlighting a growing desire to mend and make do, rather than buy new.
To keep up to date with future events visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/events
Are You Ready to Embrace a More Sustainable Lifestyle?
Repair Café Antrim and Newtownabbey hosts monthly pop-up repair cafes across the Borough where dedicated volunteers breathe new life into textiles, fix faulty household appliances and sharpen tools.
This event offers a unique opportunity to bring your broken or damaged items for repair, from textiles to bicycles. Residents are encouraged not to throw away preloved belongings, but to give them a second chance instead.
Abigail Semple Skipper from Make it Fab helping the Mayor Councillor Neil Kelly with textile repairs
L-R: Eimear Montague, Executive Director of NI Resource Network, Chris Flynn, Centre Director of The Junction and the Mayor Councillor Neil Kelly launching Repair Week 2025
L-R: Rebecca Cludow, Climate, Waste and Sustainability Officer, the Mayor Councillor Neil Kelly, Norman Stewart from Portstewart Men's Shed and Chris Flynn at the bike repair stand
Waste & Sustainability
Big Spring Clean
Live Here Love Here's flagship volunteering programme, The Big Spring Clean, is an annual campaign that invites individuals, schools, businesses and community groups to unite in tackling litter and enhancing Northern Ireland's environment.
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council was proud to host two litter picking events this year, in Toome and Ballyclare, with many more being arranged across the Borough by local volunteers.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly, participated in both events and helped contribute to the collection of 20 bags of litter in Toome and 15 bags of litter in Ballyclare.
The Big Spring Clean events are more than just tidying our shared spaces. They provide an opportunity to come together as a community, enjoy the outdoors and make a lasting difference.
Let's show pride in our Borough by keeping it clean and beautiful – your involvement really does make a difference!
Did you know?
From 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025, the Council supported 133 community litter picks through the Support in Kind scheme!
Feeling inspired to organise your own community clean up?
The Council can provide litter picking equipment and collect the rubbish gathered through their Support in Kind programme, which is available throughout the year.
For more information E. waste@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
When Life Gives You Food Scraps, Make Compost!
Ever wondered what happens to food and garden waste when you put it in your recycling bin?
From collection to transformation, here's a snapshot:
Collection: Avenue
Recycling collects food and garden waste from properties across the Borough in designated brown recycling bins.
Processing: At the invessel composting facility, food and garden waste is placed in large tunnels with controlled temperature, oxygen and moisture levels to break down the product safely.
Maturation: The compost is then moved to the maturation hall for six weeks until it is ready.
Transformation: This peatfree compost is then used in parks and open spaces across the Borough.
By choosing to recycle right, your food and garden waste has come full circle: from the ground, to the ground!
The Mayor with Council staff and volunteers taking part in the Big Spring Clean
Celebrating a Decade of Delivery
This year marks 10 years since the merger of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Councils - a decade defined by transformation, innovation, and impact.
Over the past ten years, we've achieved significant milestones and earned recognition on a national level, including the prestigious APSE UK Overall Council of the Year 2024 award. These honours reflect the unwavering dedication of our incredible staff, the high standard of our front-line services, and the bold initiatives we continue to champion for the benefit of our residents.
As part of our anniversary celebrations, we hosted our first ever Golden Threads Awards - a staff recognition event shining a spotlight on the people behind our success. This special evening celebrated the creativity, commitment, and hard work of our staff and recognised those marking 25 years of service with the Council.
Meet Your Councillors
Councillor Jay Burbank
DEA: Dunsilly Party: Alliance
Tell us a bit about your background.
I was born in Derry/Londonderry, moving to Templepatrick where I bought my first home while still at graduate school. I have spent my career to date in finance where I have worked in legal and risk roles. My first experience with politics was as a volunteer with the Remain campaign in 2016. I later joined Alliance as a volunteer and spent a few years as a campaigner before running as a councillor.
What makes Antrim and Newtownabbey special to you?
I chose Antrim and Newtownabbey to be my home and I am proud to be living in the most vibrant community in Northern Ireland.
How do you like to spend your time outside of your role as a councillor?
I am a prolific reader and when I get the time, I love nothing more than packing a book and travelling abroad with friends to explore new cultures. I've even started making TikTok videos profiling my work as a councillor which has been fun to learn!
Tell us something that people may not know about you.
I am a keen runner, with parkrun being one of my favourite weekend activities! However, I won't embarrass myself by disclosing my 5k personal best!
Councillor Alison Bennington
DEA: Glengormley Party: DUP
Tell us a bit about your background.
I have an extensive background in local government and have served in areas such as sport, leisure, arts, and parks. Recently, I was appointed President of the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA). It gives me the opportunity to engage in strategic initiatives, such as waste management and infrastructure development. I am also highly active as Veterans' Champion and Chair of two local educational boards.
What makes Antrim and Newtownabbey special to you?
The community makes it a special Borough, and I am honoured to participate in international
forums, advocating for policies that promote sustainability, social equity, and community resilience.
How do you like to spend your time outside of your role as a councillor?
I am an avid traveller and a philanthropist giving time, experience and skills for a better world. I have visited numerous countries on my motorcycle collaborating with local communities to implement sustainable initiatives and improving living conditions.
Tell us something that people may not know about you.
I represented Northern Ireland in ladies' football from 1973 to 1983 with 24 Internationals to my name.
Alderman Paula Bradley
DEA: Glengormley Party: DUP
Tell us a bit about your background. My parents moved from East Belfast to Mossley when I was just a few months old and I have not strayed too far from my childhood home. I attended Mossley Primary and Glengormley High School. I have two children and six glorious grandchildren and I have been an elected representative for twenty years.
What makes Antrim and Newtownabbey special to you?
I have so many happy memories growing up in Newtownabbey, raising my own children and now sharing what we have on our doorstep with my grandchildren. You don’t have to travel too far to experience what we offer, be it urban, rural or shoreline.
How do you like to spend your time outside of your role as a councillor?
I love nothing more than pottering around in my garden, listening to music and being surrounded by family and friends. I also have a rather cute but cheeky dog called Oscar who is never very far from my side.
Tell us something that people may not know about you.
I have been an avid fan of Paddington Bear since I was a child and I have amassed quite a collection. My most treasured bears are a Paddington and Aunt Lucy I bought in Puno in the Andes Mountains while travelling/working some years ago in “Deepest Darkest Peru”.
Alderman Julian McGrath
DEA: Glengormley Party: Alliance
Tell us a bit about your background.
I have been a councillor for Glengormley since 2018. I've three children and I have been a teacher for 27 years. I am football mad and coach football both inside and outside school. I did my honours degree in History and Politics at Queen's University, then trained as a teacher at Ulster University, Coleraine. I grew up in Glengormley and I am extremely proud to represent my childhood town.
What makes Antrim and Newtownabbey special to you?
This Borough has been my home for all but three years of my life. It's full of community spirit, whether it's in schools, or through local community groups, there's a real commitment to making things better –and I'm proud to play a part in that.
How do you like to spend your time outside of your role as a councillor?
Spare time is few and far between. I'm usually either on the touchline coaching football or supporting my son's team from the sidelines. I value time with our German Shepherds - the most amazing but complex breed of dog on the planet!
Tell us something that people may not know about you.
I have always been a keen sportsperson. At 16 years old I had a very bad leg break playing football for a local Irish league club. To stay in sport in my 30s I became an avid runner, completing eight marathons and countless half marathons. I also do a bit of writing and I've had a book published on building resilience.
Your Councillors
KEY ABBREVIATIONS
DUP Democratic Unionist Party
IND Independent
SDLP Social Democratic and Labour Party
UUP Ulster Unionist Party
ANNE MARIE LOGUE SINN FÉIN
T. 07533 353610
E. annemarie.logue@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
Airport District Electoral Area (DEA)
COVERS ALDERGROVE, CLADY, CRUMLIN, MALLUSK AND TEMPLEPATRICK.
MATTHEW MAGILL DUP
T. 07825 374019
E. matthew.magill@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
ANDREW MCAULEY ALLIANCE
T. 07775 756466
E. andrew.mcauley@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
PAUL MICHAEL bem IND
T. 07587 657120
E. paul.michael@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
MAIGHRÉAD NÍ CHONGHAILE SINN FÉIN
T. 07827 286768
E. maighread.nichonghaile@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
Antrim District Electoral Area (DEA)
COVERS ANTRIM CENTRE, FOUNTAIN HILL, GREYSTONE, SPRINGFARM, STEEPLE AND STILES.
PAUL DUNLOP bem DUP
T. 07771 554652
E. paul.dunlop@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
NEIL KELLY ALLIANCE
T. 07545 992615
E. neil.kelly@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
ROISIN LYNCH SDLP
T. 07827 276840
E. roisin.lynch@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
LUCILLE O'HAGAN SINN FÉIN
T. 07827 286769
E. lucille.ohagan@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
JOHN SMYTH DUP
T. 07436 582180
E. john.smyth@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
Ballyclare District Electoral Area (DEA)
COVERS BALLYCLARE EAST, BALLYCLARE WEST, BALLYNURE, BALLYROBERT AND DOAGH.
JEANNIE ARCHIBALD-BROWN DUP
T. 07715 392229
E. jeannie.archibald-brown@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
LEWIS BOYLE ALLIANCE
T. 07827 286771
E. lewis.boyle@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
HELEN MAGILL DUP
T. 07827 287163
E. helen.magill@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
VERA MCWILLIAM UUP
T. 07792 477050
E. vera.mcwilliam@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
LEAH SMYTH UUP
T. 07984 030867
E. leah.smyth@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
MICHAEL STEWART IND
T. 07810 868522
E. michael.stewart@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
Glengormley Urban
Macedon
Threemilewater Airport
Antrim
Dunsilly
Ballyclare
MAYOR
DEPUTY MAYOR
JAY BURBANK ALLIANCE
T. 07826 513279
E. jay.burbank@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
Dunsilly District Electoral Area (DEA)
COVERS CRANFIELD, PARKGATE, RANDALSTOWN, SHILVODAN AND TOOME.
LINDA CLARKE DUP
T. 07803 132601
E. linda.clarke@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
HENRY CUSHINAN SINN FÉIN
T. 07871 229810
E. henry.cushinan@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
ANNIE O'LONE SINN FÉIN
T. 07827 286772
E. annie.olone@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
STEWART WILSON UUP
T. 07827 286774
E. stewart.wilson@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
Glengormley Urban Electoral Area (DEA)
COVERS BALLYHENRY, BURNTHILL, CARNMONEY, COLLINBRIDGE, GLEBE, GLENGORMLEY AND HIGHTOWN.
ALISON BENNINGTON DUP
T. 07741 241011
E. alison.bennington@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
PAULA BRADLEY DUP
T. 07500 870323
E. paula.bradley@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
MARK COSGROVE UUP
T. 07555 650015
E. mark.cosgrove@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
MICHAEL GOODMAN SINN FÉIN
T. 07827 818500
E. michael.goodman@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
ROSIE KINNEAR SINN FÉIN
T. 07771 544248
E. rosie.kinnear@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
JULIAN MCGRATH ALLIANCE
T. 07920 029033 E. julian.mcgrath@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
Macedon District Electoral Area (DEA)
COVERS ABBEY, CARNMONEY HILL, O’NEILL, RATHCOOLE, VALLEY AND WHITEHOUSE.
MATTHEW BRADY DUP
T. 07833 105351
E. matthew.brady@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
ROBERT FOSTER UUP
T. 07342 064510
E. robert.foster@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
BEN MALLON DUP
T. 07719 652057
E. ben.mallon@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
TAYLOR MCGRANN SINN FÉIN
T. 07436 548081
E. taylor.mcgrann@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
STAFFORD WARD IND
T. 07827 286776
E. stafford.ward@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
Threemilewater District Electoral Area (DEA)
COVERS BALLYDUFF, FAIRVIEW, JORDANSTOWN, MONKSTOWN, MOSSLEY AND ROSTULLA.
TOM CAMPBELL ALLIANCE
T. 07595 978690
E. tom.campbell@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
MARK COOPER bem DUP
T. 07771 332108
E. mark.cooper@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
STEPHEN COSGROVE UUP
T. 07909 531742
E. stephen.cosgrove@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
SAM FLANAGAN DUP
T. 07984 037509
E. sam.flanagan@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
JULIE GILMOUR ALLIANCE
T. 07796 950825
E. julie.gilmour@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
EAMONN MCLAUGHLIN SINN FÉIN
T. 07827 286775
E. eamonn.mclaughlin@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
ALLIANCE
T. 07799 866876 E. billy.webb@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
STEPHEN ROSS DUP
T. 07713 946038
E. stephen.ross@ antrimandnewtown abbey.gov.uk
BILLY WEBB mbe jp
Holiday Arrangements
Mossley Mill
Antrim and Newtownabbey Crematorium
Ballyclare Town Hall
Pogues Entry
Sentry Hill
The Gateway Visitor Centre
Leisure Centres (Allen Park, Ballyearl)
Leisure Centres (Antrim Forum, Sixmile, Valley)
Leisure Centres (Crumlin)
Jordanstown and Six Mile Water Caravan Parks
Recycling Centres (Craigmore, Crumlin, O'Neill Road)
Recycling Centres (Newpark, Bruslee)
✗ CLOSED ✓ OPEN
*In the case that there is a show scheduled over a bank holiday closure, the theatre will open as usual.
Please note, the above holiday arrangements are subject to change. Please see our website for updates.
Customer Service Hub (Switchboard)
0300 123 4568
& Culture Hub
0300 123 7788
Leisure Hub
0300 123 1580 Planning
0300 123 6677
Parks
Recycling Centres & Waste 028 9034 0056
Useful Council Contacts
Park Warden: 028 9034 0275
Dog Warden: 028 9034 0160
Out of hours Dog Warden: 028 9034 0178
Contact details for Community Centres are available at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/communitycentres
Bin Collection Dates
For a full list of bin collection dates or to check which colour of bin to leave out please visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/bins
Grants are open for community development, culture, and leisure projects — whether you're organising an event or pursuing an individual artistic goal.
New this year:
Dedicated Grant Administration team
Streamlined, user-friendly application process
Bursary schemes for individuals in arts, culture, and sport
Community Safety Grant for local initiatives (see page 10).
For more information visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /grants-funding
Do Business With Us!
The Council procures a variety of goods and services and uses an electronic procurement portal to promote these opportunities: eSourcingNI – e-sourcingni. bravosolution.co.uk
If you own a business make sure you take the time to sign up to this portal to ensure you do not miss any tender opportunities. For more information T. 028 9034 0090 or E. procurement@ antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
Have Your Say
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is committed to delivering excellent services to all its residents and your feedback is important to us.
We would welcome your feedback on a number of key areas.
For competition rules visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /competitionrules or these can be posted on request T. 0300 123 4568
Prize Draw
All responses received will be entered into a prize draw and three lucky winners will win tickets for either Belfast Actually 2, Robin Hood or a family pass for Enchanted Winter Garden
This survey can also be completed online at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /surveys
1. How we communicate with you. How satisfied are you with:
Borough Life magazine
The quality of information on the Council website
Using our digital services
2. Our attractive Borough. How satisfied are you with:
The attractivenesss of the Borough
Parks and Open Spaces
Waste and Recycling services
3. Community Relations. Do you believe:
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough is a safe place to live?
Community Relations are good within the Borough?
4. Overall satisfaction.
Overall, how satisfied are you with services provided by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council?
Overall satisfaction with Council services
5. Please provide your postcode. We will only use this information for data analysis.
Postcode:
6. Please provide any additional feedback below.
PRIZE DRAW
Simply complete the survey and your contact details below and return to: FREEPOST
ANTRIM AND NEWTOWNABBEY BOROUGH COUNCIL – CIVIC CENTRE
Or complete online at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /surveys
Closing date Monday 30 June 2025
Contact name:
Contact number:
Contact email:
For competition rules visit antrim and newtownabbey.gov.uk /competitionrules
Prize Draw
All responses received will be entered into a prize draw and three lucky winners will win tickets for either Belfast Actually 2, Robin Hood or a family pass for Enchanted Winter Garden
For GDPR Statement visit antrim and newtownabbey.gov.uk /gdpr/communications-and-customer-services-gdpr
• FREE SESSIONS FOR 16+
