Connections - Spring 2019

Mid and East Antrim Borough Residents’ Magazine

Shaped by Sea and Stone Page 10

Inside: 09 Local elections

16 Markets in MEA

21 Win a family leisure centre pass!

Spring 2019

Useful Numbers

Get in touch

To contact Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, telephone

We are always looking at ways to make it easier for you to engage with us at Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.

Tourism

Bentra Golf Course 028 9337 8996

We welcome your queries, comments and suggestions.

You can contact us directly by telephone on 0300 124 5000

Leisure Centres

You can visit or write to us at any of the offices below:

Amphitheatre Carrickfergus 028 9335 8342

Ballymena (Headquarters) The Braid, 1-29 Bridge Street, Ballymena BT43 5EJ Ballymena Ardeevin, 80 Galgorm Road, Ballymena BT42 1AB Carrickfergus Civic Centre, 11 Antrim Street, Carrickfergus BT38 7DG Larne Smiley Buildings, Victoria Road, Larne BT40 1RU

0300 124 5000

Carrickfergus Marina 028 9336 6666 Glenarm Marina 028 2884 1285 Newferry Tourism Facility 028 2563 5010 Portglenone Marina 028 2563 5010 The Gobbins Visitor Centre 028 9337 2318 Visitor Information Centres Ballymena Visitor Information Centre 028 2563 5077 Carrickfergus Visitor Information Centre 028 9335 8222 Larne Visitor Information Centre 028 2826 2495

Larne Leisure Centre 028 2826 2497 Seven Towers Leisure Centre, Ballymena 028 2563 3382 Ballymena Showgrounds 028 2563 3290 Planning

twitter.com/mea_bc

Area Planning Office 0300 200 7830

instagram.com/meaboroughcouncil

For all areas: Call 0300 124 5000 and choose option 0 Environmental Health

Ballymena 028 2563 3213

Animal Welfare 028 2563 3134 (or on weekends and holidays, call 07824 994490)

Carrickfergus 028 9335 8220

Grants

Larne 028 2826 2384

Community and volunteer grants – Ballymena 028 2563 3148

Cemetery Enquiries

Parks & Open Spaces Carnfunnock Country Park 028 2826 2471

You can keep up-to-date with us on social media. We use Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to share the latest news, events and information from Council.

MEA Borough Council

Waste, Street Cleansing and Recycling

Communications Mid and East Antrim Borough Council The Braid 1-29 Bridge Street Ballymena BT43 5EJ

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See our new Coat of Arms

08

Explore business opportunities

09

Vote in the elections

06–07

10

Learn about our tourism brand

12

Do something fun

15

19

Make recycling easier

21

Win a leisure centre pass

23

Find out about investment

Visit an urban beach

16

Shop local

If you would like this publication in an alternative format, such as large print, please contact us on communications@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or call 0300 124 5000.

This magazine is delivered to houses and businesses in the Borough. This includes BT43 7, BT43 6, BT38 7, BT38 9, BT38 8, BT43 5, BT42 4, BT42 3, BT42 2, BT42 1, BT40 3, BT40 2, BT40 1 as well as a large number of split postcode areas. If you live in the Borough and have not received a copy of this magazine in your post, please contact the Communications department.

Community and volunteer grants – Carrickfergus and Larne 028 9335 8240

Connections is approved by the Plain English campaign.

Mid and East Antrim Connections Spring 2019

Keep up to date

If you have any comments on the magazine, please contact:

The People’s Park 028 2563 3342

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Keep up-to-date

CUT OUT AND KEEP

Arthur Cottage 028 2563 5010

Welcome to the Spring 2019 issue of Connections, the ratepayer magazine for Mid and East Antrim Borough Council. As part of our commitment to good communications, this magazine will keep you updated on our progress and inform you about upcoming events, consultations and opportunities. We hope you enjoy it. So read on if you want to:

Contact your councillor

Our front cover image is a stunning view of the Garron Plateau and Antrim Coast from the area of Galboly.

You can also read this edition online at www.issuu.com/meabc 3

Council News

Carnfunnock scoops Family Favourite Award

Moving forwards as one with new Coat of Arms

Carnfunnock Country Park has won Best Free Family Day Out in Northern Ireland, as voted for by readers of Daysoutwiththekids.co.uk

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has been presented with a new Coat of Arms.

The country park - which is packed with walking trails, walled gardens, a maze, playpark, orienteering, geocaching and more is free of charge all year round. There are also many free events on during the peak season, and you are welcome to bring your own picnic or barbeque to

make the most of your day out.

Carnfunnock has also been awarded a Green Flag for 2018/19, and retained its Tourism NI 4* Visitor Attraction Award, making it a must visit destination for families this Spring.

Please note, charges apply for certain activities such as face-painting, family fun zone, the driving range and the café. Parking charges also apply at certain times of the year.

DID YOU KNOW? The 5* caravan park in Carnfunnock reopens for the season on Friday 15 March. Go to our online booking system to book the perfect pitch! To find out more, please visit www. midandeastantrim. gov.uk/carnfunnock

Grants support scheme helps fund 1,200 local projects

Move More with Macmillan Cancer

Our grants scheme supports local community groups, sports clubs and more.

In the past four years, we have helped fund a wide range of events and activities.

We have teamed up with Macmillan Cancer to appoint a Move More Coordinator in Mid and East Antrim, helping people with cancer to move more and live better.

Grants have been given to help pay for public liability insurance, coaching, first aid training and the purchase of community-based defibrillators. Through our Civic Representation category, we have funded

individuals to allow them to participate in the Northern Ireland Scout Council Canada Expedition, the All Ireland Schools Athletics Finals and the World Pipe Band Championships. We have also helped with the purchase of equipment for sports clubs, instruments for bands and play equipment for afterschool clubs.

For information on the 2019/20 Grants Support Scheme, visit www. midandeastantrim.gov.uk/ grants

1,200 £1.8m projects supported by council’s grants scheme in the past four years

awarded in grants in the past four years.

International Local events: events: SuperCup NI, the NI Open golf event, the Dalriada Festival and the Royal Landings.

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Carnlough Vintage Show, Gig ‘N The Bann Festival and the County Antrim Agricultural Show.

Mid and East Antrim Connections Spring 2019

The role will provide support and develop a programme of physical activity opportunities for people living with cancer across the borough in an activity that they will enjoy and at a level that’s for them. It also provides people with an opportunity

to meet others in a similar situation and reduce the loneliness and isolation that can often affect those impacted by the disease.

For more information, contact Aaron Irwin (pictured) at aaron.irwin@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk or call 07939 634434.

Take part in our Parks and Open Spaces survey Our Parks and Open Spaces are great places to get outdoors and surround yourself with nature.

Whether you use them to walk your dog, meet up with friends or run some energy off yourself or the kids, we want to find out more about what is important to you and what we could do differently in the future.

Please complete the short survey before 31 March by following this link: www.surveymonkey. co.uk/r/mea-parks-css

The official crest, which unites design elements from the badges of the former council areas of Larne, Carrickfergus and Ballymena, also incorporates a strong, new motto ‘SIMUL ET DEINCEPS’, meaning ‘together and forwards’.

This is a significant milestone for the new council area, and reflects the spirit in which our three councils have come together, and how we are now moving forwards as one.

The official crest was formally presented by Norroy and Ulster King of Arms, Mr Timothy Duke, at a special meeting in December.

What can you spot?

The shield is derived from the arms of the former borough of Ballymena, with three towers representing the three predecessor councils.

The galley ship and lion crest is largely derived from the former borough of Carrickfergus.

The shuttles on the crest and ship elements came from the former borough shield of Larne.

The supporters of the crest – a knight and an Irish Warrior - were in a reverse position on the arms of the legacy Carrickfergus borough.

SIMUL • ET • DEINCEPS

Slemish mountain is iconic of the Ballymena area, and the flax flowers featured on the Coat of Arms for the former Borough of Larne.

SIMUL • ET • DEINCEPS

Freedom of the Borough conferred on Sir William Wright CBE Wrightbus founder Sir William Wright CBE has been honoured with the Freedom of the Borough in recognition of his contribution to global business and the local economy, and his service to Mid and East Antrim.

This is the highest accolade the council can award a citizen, and Sir William’s vision and dedication was centre stage at a ceremony in The Braid Town Hall in January.

Sir William said: “To receive the Freedom of the Borough is a great honour, particularly as it is bestowed from my birthplace, the area where my business is based, and a place I am proud to call home.”

Wrightbus is one of Northern Ireland’s leading businesses, and puts the borough firmly on the map as an area of manufacturing excellence and innovation.

This honour also recognises the work Sir William has done to support the education of our young people, and to provide a lifeline for many organisations and groups within Mid and East Antrim.

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Economic Development

Belfast Region City Deal Mid and East Antrim

Focus on Manufacturing Revival 2018 was the year for repositioning Mid and East Antrim’s economic strengths both locally and internationally.

A major step in boosting our manufacturing sector has been the establishment of the Manufacturing Task Force (MTF), set up to address the economic loss of companies such as Michelin and JTI-Gallaher.

Championed by Chief Executive Anne Donaghy and unique to Mid and East Antrim, the initiative is a collaborative effort with the local advanced manufacturing and agri-food industries.

Forging links with China The past year has seen a renewed focus on developing international relationships with China in order to increase trade, investment and tourism. In October 2018, a delegation from Donghai County was hosted by Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Councillor Lindsay Millar.

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It brings together a wide range of business leaders and other stakeholders united by the ambition to drive sustained productivity growth.

With Rose Mary Stalker as Chair, the MTF hosted a workshop in April that was attended by over 100 representatives from the borough’s manufacturing companies and other stakeholders.

Since the workshop, five subgroups have been set up with the following key areas of focus on which to base their recommendations:

•

Despite not yet being a year old, the MTF has already delivered on its pledge to addresses the future economic productivity of the borough. These successes include: •

• •

• • • •

increasing productivity, improving skills, support for Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs), boosting the supply

During the visit, Cllr Millar signed a Friendly Cities Cooperation Agreement with Mr Gao Meifeng, Mayor and Chief of the people's government of Donghai County. He then formally extended an invitation for a delegation to visit Donghai during 2019.

In parallel with this inward visit, representatives from Mid and East Antrim attended the 4th UK Regional Leaders Summit in Dalian. Over 200 delegates from the UK and China

Mid and East Antrim Connections Spring 2019

chain, and encouraging collaborative research and development funding applications.

•

A high-profile steering team set up to work collaboratively and speak with one voice to address sectoral issues.

Establishment of a HR Managers’ Forum to address skills issues. £70K support from Invest NI to deliver a Digital Boost programme.

Supporting businesses in their applications to Invest NI’s

attended this summit as well as representatives from other councils in Northern Ireland.

This summit provided an excellent opportunity to meet and engage with key stakeholders and to meet with potential partner cities.

Further engagement with these cities and plans for visiting Donghai County in 2019 are currently underway.

•

Collaborative Growth programme. Successful applicants will be awarded up to £170k to fund facilitated work on productivity and skills initiatives.

Over 150 school children took part in a 4C UR Future event during the borough’s Enterprise Fortnight. This saw the next generation of entrepreneurs and engineers engage in workshops alongside some of the most exciting companies in Mid and East Antrim.

Looking ahead to 2019, the Manufacturing Task Force has exciting plans to continue fostering economic growth in the Borough through collaborative engagement.

City Deal green light set to fire up Mid and East Antrim’s economy A once-in-a-generation £1bn cash injection through Belfast Region City Deal will help reignite Mid and East Antrim’s economy, with substantial multi-million pound investments planned in Ballymena, Carrickfergus and The Gobbins.

Diversification and innovation are key to our ambitious blueprint to rejuvenate and drive the local economy through the opportunities presented by Belfast Region City Deal, which is expected to create up to 25,000 jobs.

Around £80m of the proposed £1bn of coinvestment will be injected directly into a number of major schemes across Mid and East Antrim – taking in everything from tourism, innovation and the revamp of one of the major towns in the area.

Ballymena Key to the City Deal plans is the transformation of the former St Patrick’s Barracks site in Ballymena into a new science park called i4C, which stands for Integrated Industrial Inspiration and Innovation Campus.

It will include a programme to inspire and harness the talents of young people through a controlled series of high quality work experiences.

This will create unique personal profiles for each person, matching them to an online mentor, and connecting them to future matched enrichment activities.

Carrickfergus In Carrickfergus there are plans worth more than £38m to regenerate and return the historic hotspot to its former glory. It will include the development of Carrickfergus Castle, the walls and the surrounding environment – bringing it up to the standard of a worldclass heritage site and global visitor attraction.

The Gobbins The City Deal plans also include funding for the second phase of work at The Gobbins cliff path – extending and doubling the length, and as a result, increasing the spectacular attraction’s place on the Northern Ireland tourism map. To date, more than half of all visitors to The Gobbins have travelled from outside Northern Ireland.

The proposals outlined will re-establish a further section of The Gobbins coastal walkway. Using the existing path and rock ledges, a new ‘roped bridge’ and other high adventure type structures will be fitted to cross gullies and crevices.

In Partnership Our Belfast Region City Deal partner councils include Belfast, Antrim and Newtownabbey, Ards and North Down, Lisburn and Castlereagh, Newry, Mourne and Down.

Our council, alongside the other authority partners, has also been working closely with the Northern Ireland Civil Service, Northern Ireland Office, Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Treasury as well as the universities and further education colleges.

This will secure the site as a sustainable and viable attraction and boost overnight stays in the area.

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Economic Development

New business support programme challenges women to get into enterprise

Elections

The Yes You Can initiative is an exciting new business support programme running in collaboration with councils, Invest NI and Women in Business NI. The aim of Yes You Can is to promote female enterprise, increase the number of women considering starting a business, and

encourage existing female entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.

Women from Mid and East Antrim are invited to take part in the programme of activities, which will include business bootcamps, direct mentoring support, residential events, conferences, development of local female networks

and an exciting Dragons’ Den pitching session to win prizes.

To find out more, contact the Economic Development team at amplify@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk or call 028 2563 3195.

Sign up to business growth We offer a range of business support programmes through Amplify, our integrated economic development strategy.

We can also help you take the first steps to gaining employment through an Exploring Enterprise programme.

Whether you are thinking of starting up a business (the Go For It! programme), been trading for less than a year (the Kickstart programme), or looking for ways to grow your existing business (the Escalator programme), there’s an opportunity that is right for you.

For information on any of the above, visit amplifymidandeastantrim.com

Enterprise Fortnight success

• • • •

A series of events to facilitate networking, showcase innovation and inspire new thinking among local businesses and budding entrepreneurs in Mid and East Antrim took place with great success at the end of 2018. • The programme, led by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council in partnership with local business support organisations, involved:

26 free events 19 schools and 553 school children 550 individuals seeking to grow their businesses.

Two pop-up shops which supported 12 businesses to trade for the first time.

This generated £8k+ of sales, with one participant now setting up shop in Larne town centre.

17 businesses referred to the Amplify business support programme.

For full details on all the events featured as part of Enterprise Fortnight go to: www. amplifymidandeastantrim.com /enterprise-fortnight 8

Mid and East Antrim Connections Spring 2019

Make your vote count The next local elections will take place on Thursday 2 May 2019, when you will have the opportunity to elect the 40 councillors who will serve on Mid and East Antrim Borough Council until 2023.

There are seven district electoral areas in Mid and East Antrim – Ballymena, Bannside, Braid, Carrick Castle, Coast Road, Knockagh and Larne Lough. You will vote for councillors to represent the area in which you live.

Delivered by leading experts within industry, local entrepreneurs and support agencies, the highly successful initiative urged participants to sign up to a wide range of topical information seminars, workshops, talks and drop-in clinics.

With economic growth being our number one key priority, the programme of events was extended in 2018 in a bid to offer even more support to local business networks and future start-ups.

We have been inspired and informed in ways which are so valuable at this stage in our business development.

Enterprise Fortnight participant

How do I vote?

1.

2.

At a Polling station

By Post or Proxy

Polling places are usually located in local schools, church halls or public buildings. If you are listed on the electoral register, shortly after the election is announced you will receive a poll card which includes information such as: • your electoral number • your electoral area • the date and hours of the poll • the location of your polling station • a list of acceptable identity documents (you must bring one form of ID with you)

To vote by post or proxy (where you appoint someone to vote on your behalf) you must complete an application form specifying the reason why you cannot go in person to vote at your polling station.

Download the application form at www.eoni.org/vote/ voting-by-post-orproxy

Get registered There are two ways to register to vote.

1.

2.

You can register online at www.gov.uk /register-to-vote.

If you are unable to register online, you will need to complete a paper registration form and return it to the Area Electoral Office. The form can be downloaded at: www.eoni.org. uk/Register-To-Vote. To have one posted to you, call 028 9044 6680

How will councillors be elected?

The Single Transferable Vote system is used to elect members to local councils. This means that you rank candidates in order of preference by marking 1, 2, 3 and so on next to the candidates of your choice on a ballot paper.

You may rank as many or as few candidates as you like, or just vote for one candidate.

How can I find out more?

Visit: www.eoni.org.uk Email: info@eoni.org.uk Call: 028 9044 6680

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DID YOU KNOW? The turnout in the last local election in Mid and East Antrim was just

under 48%.

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2.23m

62 miles

the estimated number of people who visited NI in 2018

£589m

8%

With more and more tourists flocking to Northern Ireland than ever before, it is vitally important that Mid and East Antrim grabs some of this £589m annual business and tempts visitors to come and explore the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage right here on our doorstep.

Market research by Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland shows that international travellers are constantly looking for those hidden gems, stories by local people and activities off the beaten track. And we have plenty of that in Mid and East Antrim.

Our story Our new tourism brand, Shaped by Sea and Stone, will inspire travellers, build excitement and help visitors discover the real and authentic tourism product we have to offer.

Shaped by Sea and Stone is a narrative for our top tourist attractions at The Gobbins, Carrickfergus Castle and Slemish Mountain. It promotes a more leisurely journey on the Causeway Coastal Route to international visitors, letting them into the secret that there is so much more to do on this internationally recognised coastal experience. It also gives a strong voice to the hidden gems and the local people that make the whole borough a great destination to visit.

Once we have caught their attention, the Shaped by Sea and Stone brand will give visitors a true experience of what we are all about through local stories and experiences told by the people who live here.

Marketing Shaped by Sea and Stone is an opportunity for us to market Mid and East Antrim to an international audience. We are doing this through

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Mid and East Antrim Connections Spring 2019

65,000

the amount tourism revenue is predicted to grow in 2019

the amount generated by tourism in NI in 2018

Introducing a new brand for Mid and East Antrim’s tourism strategy.

the length of our stunning coastline

the number of jobs sustained by tourism in NI

a destination website, social media, campaigns and a new look and feel visitor guide. Our tourism team are also on the road internationally at various tradeshows promoting the area and encouraging visitors to come and stay and explore all of what we have here in Mid and East Antrim.

We are also working collaboratively with other councils, Tourism Ireland, Tourism Northern Ireland and the trade to further promote our area. By promoting the fantastic products we have in Mid and East Antrim, whether it’s an attraction, accommodation or food and drink, we can encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more in our borough.

Follow us To keep up to date with all our tourism activity, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram @shapedbysea&stone. If you have any local stories or photographs you would like to share to help promote the borough, get in touch with our tourism team at tourism@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk or contact us on Facebook or Instagram.

“Galgorm is delighted with the new branding. It’s a strong concept that really drills down into the essence of the region and will allow visitors and locals alike to develop an emotional connection to the area.”

Beth Greenan, Head of Sales & Marketing, Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort

“Talking about Shaped by Sea and Stone has given a new focus to my business and indeed others in the area.”

Portia Woods, Toast the Coast Tours

“I love that visitors will see us - the people, landscape, spirituality and industry Shaped by Sea and Stone.

It is very exciting.”

Sinead Brennan The Bankhouse, Whitehead

www.shapedbyseaandstone.com 11

Events Events

What’s On in MEA | Spring

Stories behind the Stones: Churchyards of Antrim and Carrickfergus

April March Carrickfergus Art Club Exhibition

30 March-13 April Carrickfergus Town Hall

15-30 March Carrickfergus Museum

A platform for amateur performers from across the province.

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Larne Art Club Spring Exhibition 9-29 March Larne Museum and Arts Centre ................................................

The Fureys 23 March, 8pm.

The Braid Arts Centre, Ballymena Tickets: £22.50.

Come hear these legends of Irish music at The Braid.

For more information, contact www.carrickfestival.co.uk ................................................

MUSEUM NEWS You can explore Mid-Antrim Museum at The Braid by app! The digital gallery trail is specially designed for kids. Pick up a tablet with a pre-installed app in the museum atrium during half term and school holidays.

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The Reivers: the story of the Steel Bonnets in Scotland and Ulster 28 March, 7.30pm-9pm Larne Museum and Arts Centre.

The first Saturday of every month is Super Saturday at Carrickfergus Museum! Free activities, storytelling, music, dance and craft.

Suitable for ages 1-5.

Booking essential: carrickfergusmuseums@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

A talk by Dr David Hume. Free event, but tickets should be booked in advance. ................................................

Carrickfergus Annual Festival of Music , Speech and Drama 12

Mid and East Antrim Connections Spring 2019

Jordanstown Art Club Exhibition 1-15 April Carrickfergus Museum ................................................

Carnegie Family Fun Day

techniques. Two Chinese Ink and Watercolour Painting workshops led by Michael will take place on Saturday 18 May. Booking via Eventbrite (Chinese Painting Workshop).

Cost: £7, all materials supplied. For information call 028 2563 5028.

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Around the World in 40 Quilts 5-27 April Larne Museum and Arts Centre An exhibition of themed quilts by Loose Thread Quilters. Includes Saturday opening on 6 and 27 April.

Combine nature and nurture in a series of events that will inspire you to create dishes sourced from the earth.

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Royal Gun Salute 22 April, 12noon Carrickfergus Castle

• •

•

• ................................................

My Eyes Adored You – Frankie Valli tribute 13 April, 8pm The Braid Arts Centre, Ballymena Tickets: £18.

Starring Kevin Simm as Frankie Valli, winner of The Voice UK and star of Liberty X.

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A Brush with Nature II - Chinese Watercolour Exhibition

Neil Delamere – Controlled Substance ................................................

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For more information, contact parks@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Shaped by Industry – Shared with Pride 4-5 May, Carnlough 5-6 May, Glenarm 24-25 May, Whitehead Railway Museum 31 May, Flame! Gasworks 1-2 June, Flame! Gasworks Free events.

Geared for the culturally curious, this familyfriendly programme of participative theatre experiences will take you inside the story! Brought to you by the Big Telly Theatre Company and Heritage Lottery Funding.

Booking via Eventbrite (Shaped by Industry).

For more information contact Mid-Antrim Museum on 028 2563 5027. ................................................

Birds of Prey at Larne Museum

Brian Kennedy, headlining Friends Goodwill Music Festival ................................................

Colin Murphy Big Time 17 May, 8pm The Braid Arts Centre, Ballymena Tickets: £20.

Over 16s only.

Comedian Colin Murphy will be taking his new tour across the land, using both motorways and most of the dual carriageways doing what he does best and peeling away the layers of what makes us, us.

4 May, 11am–12pm An opportunity to get close to a bird of prey during a presentation by Ian Patterson from Flying Falcons. This is a free family event. ................................................

25 April, 7.30pm-9pm Larne Museum and Arts Centre

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12 April –22 June 2019 Mid-Antrim Museum, The Braid.

Nifty Nettles, Buttermilk Walk, Broughshane, Saturday 30 March, 11am-1pm Perfect Pesto, ECOS, Saturday 27 April, 11am-1pm Super salad, Carnfunnock, Wednesday 25 Saturday 25 May, 11am-1pm Woodland Larder, Maine Riverside Walk Cullybackey, Saturday 8 June, 11am–1pm Delicious Drinks, Carrick Mill Ponds, Tuesday 16 July, 1pm-3pm

19th and 20th Century Ulster Emigrants in Australia

A talk by Dr David Hume.

Free event, but tickets should be booked in advance.

................................................

View work by Michael Rong-Gen Yin, who is inspired by traditional Chinese painting

Developed through the Mid-Antrim Heritage Partnership.

To mark the 93rd birthday of Her Majesty the Queen.

Public are invited to attend.

6 April, 11am-3pm Larne Museum and Arts Centre Free event.

Help us celebrate 113 years since the official opening of Larne Carnegie Free Library! Activities for the whole family including arts and crafts, dress-up and games, and quilting demonstrations.

20 April – 30 May. Carrickfergus Museum

WILD ABOUT FOOD! FORAGING EVENTS

Friends Goodwill Music Festival ................................................

May Celebration of Neil Diamond

April 26, 8pm The Braid Arts Centre, Ballymena, Tickets: £22. Over 16s.

10 May, 8pm The Braid Arts Centre, Ballymena Tickets: £18, Concessions £16

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11-12 May Larne Market Yard and Broadway A weekend packed with live music, dancing, family entertainment, children’s activities, an exhibition, street theatre, food heritage demonstrations. Renowned singer-songwriter Brian Kennedy will headline the free festival.

Free tickets available through Eventbrite.co.uk

................................................

The Good Templars: A forgotten East Antrim fraternity 30 May, 7.30pm-8.30pm Larne Museum and Arts Centre A talk by Dr David Hume.

Free event, but tickets should be booked in advance. ................................................

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Parks and Open Spaces

June East Antrim U3A art club exhibition 1-15 June Carrickfergus Museum ................................................

Two perspectives on scenes of Islandmagee 7-26 June Larne Museum and Arts Centre Art Exhibition by Laura Butler and Audrey Kyle. ................................................

Hidden Village Walking Tour 9 June A walking tour of Galboly and Garron Tower. It includes an exploration of the ecology and wildlife of this scenic area, rarely accessible by visitors. In conjunction with The Heritage Hub at Carnlough Town Hall.

Looking to the Summer Learning Disability Pride 2019 22 June Carrickfergus A carnival style parade will weave its way around the town before finishing at the Castle carpark where everyone can enjoy live entertainment, stalls and much more including fun activities for the whole family.

Come along and celebrate the amazing contributions that people with a learning disability make to society. www.facebook.com/ learningdisabilitypride

July

6 July Ballymena Academy Playing Fields

July and August

................................................

events@midandeastantrim. gov.uk

Love Parks Week 15-21 July, locations throughout the borough.

events@midandeastantrim. gov.uk ................................................

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i

17-29 June Carrickfergus Museum ................................................

The EU project that’s making a splash in Mid and East Antrim We are one of 19 partners from across the UK, Ireland, Spain, France and the Canary Islands in the El Capiten project, which is part of the EU Atlantic Area Programme. Its focus?

To promote water-based 14

activities on our stunning coastline and rivers!

The El Capiten funding will be used to support events such as the 2019 Dalriada Festival and Big Splash 2019, as well as running three Beach Bonanza! Family events where you can try out water-based activities such as paddle-boarding, kayaking and windsurfing.

Mid and East Antrim Connections Spring 2019

Seashell Stories

Friday 19 July, Portmuck, as part of Love Parks Week.

Join us for an immersive beach adventure as we use the power of storytelling, song and magic to help children understand the impact of pollution and climate

A buzz in the air ................................................

................................................

East Antrim Artists

The People’s Park will be transformed into an urban beach with sand, sun loungers and a range of activities such as sand castle building competitions, yoga on the beach and beach volleyball competition.

Diamond Jubilee Woods will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of Woodstock with a peace and love themed festival. Music, food and activities will add to the vibes.

This is another Your Place Our Space project, which has already helped us deliver successful events such as Sofa to Saddle, Dementia Garden Larne and Canoeing Portglenone.

change on our seas. We want to empower and educate children, providing them with the tools and knowledge that will stay with them for their whole lives.

19 July Shaftesbury Park, Carrickfergus Shakespeare’s final play is believed by many to be his finest comedy. Bring your chairs and picnics. £3 admission for over 16s.

For bookings, call 028 2563 5027.

Saturday 1 June, Diamond Jubilee Wood, 1pm-4pm

Ballymena Urban Beach

Pipe bands and drum majors from across the UK, Republic of Ireland and Australia.

Shakespeare in the Park: The Tempest

Woollen Woodstock

We have a packed programme of events coming up to help you enjoy our wonderful parks and open spaces, thanks to ongoing PEACE IV funding. Here’s a few events to watch out for:

All Ireland Pipe Band Championship

................................................

Park it in Peace

For more information, pick up our What’s On Guide at Visitor Information Centres or read online at wwwmidandeastantrim.gov.uk/events.

Please check with organisers that details of events have not changed since this magazine has been published.

Dates for your diary: • • • • •

23 June – Beach Bonanza!, Carnlough July – Dalriada Festival, Glenarm 21 July – Beach Bonanza!, Glenarm 11 August – Beach Bonanza! Ballygalley August – Big Splash, Portglenone

Since 2017, we have received £5262 of Heritage Lottery funding to help improve our habitat for bees. Already we have carried out native tree planting, held gardening for bees workshops, sowed wildflower meadows, built bee hotels, installed signage and created a beelicious mural.

Over 7565 of you have been involved – thanks to you all, you really are the bee’s knees!

Bee involved We are hoping to connect with established and wannabe bee keepers as part of the ‘B-lines’ project to create bee highways. The project is in its early stages, but if you would like to register interest, please contact biodiversity @midandeastantrim. gov.uk

In Bloom Success Congratulations to all the volunteers and businesses who helped Ballymena win gold at the 2018 Britain in Bloom awards. The town also was awarded a Gardening for Wildlife award. Good luck to Cullybackey, who will be representing the Borough in the 2019 competition.

The village will be under the judges’ spotlight in August.

If this national success inspires you to get growing, why not enter into our own local competition, MEA In Bloom?

This is the first year we are also running a Volunteer of the Year and Young Volunteer of the Year. Do you know someone who deserves recognition?

For more information, visit www.midandeastantrim. gov.uk/inbloom

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DID YOU KNOW?

Diamond Jubilee Wood was officially declared a Local Nature Categories include Reserve in 2018, affording it Best Kept Front Garden and Container Garden, greater protection for generations Best Kept Commercial to come. It is one of six nature Premises, Best Community reserves in the Borough.

Planting Scheme and Best School Gardening Project.

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Parks and Open Spaces

01 Krazi Bakers Anything that can be baked on a griddle, Mark Douglas does it - from soda farls to potato and apple cakes to fluffy pancakes. Winner of two Great Taste Awards.

Meet your market traders From potatoes to preserves and freshly caught fish to second-hand books, your local market is a cornucopia of goods worth exploring.

Here are just some of the stall holders waiting to greet you.

02 Miles McComb Making custom-made furniture and gifts in wood for seven or eight years.

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02

03 Magi Delahay Preserves

04 McMaster’s Home Reared Beef Multi award-winning local butchers based in Whitehead, and at both Larne and Carrickfergus markets. With 30 years of experience in the trade, all of their produce is handreared on the family farm.

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Moira and Bailie sell a range of second-hand items and all proceeds go to local animal charities. They have raised over £50,000 through their weekly attendance at Larne Market.

06 David Speers

Trading at the market for two years. Most of Magi’s ingredients are grown at Eden allotments, Carrickfergus. Spicy plum and port is one of her best-selling preserves.

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05 Moira Hutchinson and her dog, Bailie

David has been selling locally produced fruit and veg in Larne, Carrick and Ballymena markets for over 20 years. All local produce.

07 Barbara Ann’s Traditional Home Bakery Trading at Larne market since 2008. Specialises in home-baked goods.

08 Aidan Peter Cotter Aidan sells a range of kitchen wares and has been trading at markets for over 30 years.

When and where?

Larne

Ballymena

Larne Market Yard, every Wednesday from 8am-1pm

Seven Towers Leisure Centre car park, every Saturday from 7am-2pm

Carrickfergus Joymount car park, every Thursday 8am-2pm.

Ran by Carrickfergus YMCA and supported by council.

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DID YOU KNOW?

06 16

Mid and East Antrim Connections Spring 2019

07

08

In 1626AD, King Charles I confirmed the grant of the Ballymena Estate to William Adair, giving him the right to hold a market at Ballymena on every Saturday.

PEACE IV

Children the focus of peace funding in Mid and East Antrim Council has secured £3.14m of funding thanks to the European Union’s PEACE IV programme. This has enabled us to run over 14 programmes to help build positive relationships in our communities. One of the themes is Children and Young People. Here’s an overview of what has been happening.

Fresh Frontiers Youth Exchange Over 45 young people aged 16-24 will take part in this cross-community youth development programme that gives one-to-one mentoring, training in good relations, interpersonal skills, communication and presentation skills, conflict resolution and confidence building. The project is being delivered by LEDCOM, who began in Larne in 2018, are due to begin in Ballymena in May, and finally will roll it out in Carrickfergus in October.

For more information, contact Laura McCourt on 028 2826 9973 or email laura.mccourt@ ledcom.org

Sports for All We have delivered two programmes under Sports for All. The first, Together Everyone Achieves More in Sport (TEAMS), trained 45 young people (aged 16-24) to become coaches. They then delivered a multi-sport coaching programme to 81 children aged 7 to 11 years across the borough.

The second programme – The Game of Three Halves (GO3H) – brought together 64 young people from different backgrounds for summer sports camps. These camps explored culture and identity through participating in three sports from Northern Ireland’s rich sporting heritage: Football, Gaelic and Rugby. It was a great success and is kicking off

once again this summer.

If you are aged 1216 and want to get involved, contact Gary Boyd on 028 2563 3316 or email gary.boyd@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Trans-i-tion Young people from ‘hot spot’ areas across the borough have been receiving fortnightly mentoring in a crosscommunity personal development, health and community engagement programme.

Participants have also completed Reconciliation and Peace training and taken part in a three-day residential in Tollymore Activity Centre.

Community events will also take place as part of this programme in Carrickfergus and Larne over the coming months.

Targeting 11-24 year olds, Trans-i-tion is delivered

by Carrickfergus YMCA. For more information, contact Paul Eaton on 028 9335 5890 or email paul.eaton@ carrickymca.org

Thanks to all our delivery partners and to the Special EU Programmes Body for helping us draw down the funding.

To find out more about any of the Peace IV projects, contact the Investment and Funding Office on 028 2563 3266 or email peace@midandeastantrim.gov.uk.

Easter holiday collections Alternative collection days for black/brown/blue bins

Bank Carrickfergus Holiday

Larne

Ballymena

Bank Carrickfergus Holiday

Larne

Ballymena

Monday 22 April

Saturday 20 April

Saturday 20 April

Saturday 20 April

Monday 22 April

Saturday 20 April

N/A

Saturday 20 April

Tuesday 23 April

Saturday 27 April

As normal

As normal

Tuesday 23 April

As normal

N/A

As normal

Recycle more at your local Household Recycling Centre We currently recycle 52% of our waste in Mid and East Antrim, and we need to do better.

One way to do this is by not putting recyclable waste into general waste containers at our Household Recycling Centres (HRCs).

If you are visiting a HRC, please pre-sort your household waste for reuse and recycling. Our site staff will advise you about which containers to use.

As disposal of recyclable items in general waste skips is not permitted, staff may ask you to open bags to show that they do not contain recyclable materials.

To make your trip to the HRC as quick and easy as possible, please follow the simple steps:

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Alternative collection days for kerbside boxes

S

O

R

T

Sort recyclable and non-recyclable materials at home. Disposal of recyclable items in waste skips is no longer permitted.

Organise your recyclables and waste in your vehicle so that when you visit the HRC you can place items in the correct containers.

This will make your visit much quicker.

Re-use – if you have bulky items such as furniture, electricals and bicycles these could be re-used – look out for the relevant containers!

Talk to our staff – if you are unsure about what can and cannot be recycled please ask. Our staff will provide advice on which container to use.

Re-use Often the items we no longer want can be re-used or repaired and loved by someone else.

Furniture, white goods, computers and clothing are just a few of the items that can be accepted for re-use at your local HRC.

You can download a guide to what items you can bring to your local HRC at www.midandeastantrim. gov.uk/hrc or pick one up on site.

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DID YOU KNOW? •

Our Household Recycling Centres sent less than 30% of what they received to landfill in 2018 – meaning over 9,380 tonnes of what you gave us was recycled.

• The UK has a target to recycle 65% of all our waste by 2035.

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Community Planning

Health and Wellbeing

Putting People First in Mid and East Antrim The Community Planning team in Mid and East Antrim has been busy working on delivering positive outcomes across all of the five themes identified in our community plan, Putting People First.

Some of these are longer terms goals, such as enabling people to live longer and happier lives; while some of these involve shorter term projects, such as providing marketing material to signpost the way to childcare services in the borough.

Dementia Friendly Communities

The Support Hub

First rolled out in Larne, the Dementia Friendly programme has attracted media coverage for its success.

As covered in the last issue of Connections, the Support Hub is addressing the complex and multifaceted needs of some of our most vulnerable residents.

Working in partnership is core to the success of this approach that aims to get those in need the right support, at the right time, from the right organisation, in their local area. This model is being looked at with a view to being replicated across other council areas.

Training is well under way in Carrickfergus, and the programme is set to begin in Ballymena later in 2019.

We have also enjoyed working on and opening our first dementia garden in Larne.

Of particular note, two of our projects were finalists in the annual local government association (NILGA) awards.

Later in the year, the first formal report on the progress of community planning will be made to the Department of Communities. We are looking forward to showcasing how we have been delivering the Community Plan in Mid and East Antrim, working together with partner organisations, bodies and groups; truly Putting People First in the Borough.

To find out more, contact communityplanning@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Keeping your family active, healthy and happy!

There’s plenty for you and your whole family at your local leisure centre. Swing into action and get fit at the gym, enjoy a splash in the pool or take part in one of our many physical activity classes.

We have everything you need to get more active together - right on your doorstep!

Our ‘GetMEActive’ family memberships are only £39 a month and give two adults and under 18s from the same household access to our fantastic leisure facilities.

Each of our leisure centres has a dedicated team of staff providing safe, friendly and inclusive environments; and offer people of all abilities support to achieve their health and wellness goals.

Members can benefit from access to: • • • • •

swimming pools health suites fitness suites Kinesis™ suite (Amphitheatre, Carrickfergus) use of all three leisure centres in the borough

Seven Towers Leisure Centre

Additional membership benefits include: • • • •

free induction and fitness plans flexible payment options no fixed contract no admin fees

Visit www. midandeastantrim.gov. uk/leisure-centres for more information on memberships, payas-you-go prices and concessionary groups.

Larne Leisure Centre

Amphitheatre Wellness Centre

www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/MEActive

Community Centre review to improve services Community centres are at the heart of our community, giving people space to meet and improve their health and wellbeing through physical activity, social connection and community spirit.

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In order to make sure we are providing the best service we can, we are doing a review of the community centres we run, as well as of community centres that we run in partnership with other groups.

Mid and East Antrim Connections Spring 2019

The review will look at the levels of usage, space available, staffing, programming, marketing and opening hours. We are also carrying out full condition surveys to assess how fit for purpose they

Win a year’s free family membership! are and to inform the investment plan for the future.

If you would like more information, contact communitycentres@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Get MEActive and enjoy a healthy lifestyle for you and your family.

Benefit from a wide range of facilities and activities at any of our three leisure centres in Carrickfergus, Larne and Ballymena.

To enter, simply unscramble the words below and complete your details:

fmalyi mebshpiemr

Answer ............................................................................

Name ...............................................................................

Address ............................................................................

Telephone number ......................................................

Email your answer and details to us at communications@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or cut out this box and post it to us at: Leisure Centre Competition, Communications, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, The Braid, 1-29 Bridge Street, Ballymena, BT43 5EJ * Terms and conditions apply. All entries must be received by Friday 19 April at 5pm. Your information will only be used in relation to this competition, and in line with Council’s data protection policy. For more information, 21 visit www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/dataprotection.

PCSP / Good Relations

Elected Members

Youth project tackles anti-social behaviour in Mid and East Antrim A youth project run by the Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) has been providing high risk young people with a structured programme of activity at key times when antisocial behaviour is more likely to occur, such as evenings and school holidays.

The Bytes Mid and East Antrim Detached Youth project provides a regular and consistent programme, and is targeted at high risk young people identified through the PCSP Antisocial Behaviour Steering Group, referrals from community stakeholders and engagement with youth providers.

The project aims to transform relationships through developmental group work, including with the PSNI and PCSP Community Wardens,

as the young people are encouraged to build respect and citizenship values. As well as workshops, the groups have enjoyed pizza nights and go-karting.

The benefits of the Bytes project is that the agencies involved are able to build meaningful relationships with these young people. They can explore why they do not engage with mainstream youth provision, help them address issues they face in their communities and encourage civic responsibility.

Due to run until 2020, the project is funded through Mid and East Antrim Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), NI Housing Executive and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Good Relations Department.

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•

A new bin to safely and anonymously dump prescription and illegal drugs has been installed in the borough. This is the first RAPID (Remove all Prescription and Illegal Drugs) bin in Mid and East Antrim, and it is located at Tesco in Ballymena.

The PCSP has been working alongside the PSNI, Public Health Agency (PHA) and the local Drug and Alcohol Coordination Team (DACT) to explore rolling this out in more locations.

The Northern Domestic and Sexual Violence Partnership conference, supported by the PCSP, was held in Ballymena in January to help people recognise and respond to domestic and sexual abuse, both at home and in the workplace.

Civic Leadership Programme builds on success

Bytes youth workers Connor Keenan, Sarah Geddis and Mark Clegg 22

Mid and East Antrim Connections Spring 2019

Your Council

News from the PCSP

The Civic Leadership Programme has celebrated a successful two years by bringing together the 28 people who have completed the accredited training. During the course, organised through our Good Relations team, participants took part in workshops and learnt about leadership, issues facing civic leaders and effective communication.

Ballymena Cllr Donna Anderson Independent cllr.anderson@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07541 830 589

In February, the Rowan Sexual Assault Referral Centre Conference was held to coincide with National Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week.

•

A ROC Conversations event took place in Carrickfergus in January.

The community engagement event was hosted by the PCSP alongside the Redeeming Our Communities (ROC) charity. The aim was to bring together those who live, work and serve in the local community to celebrate the good work that is already taking place and discuss any potential gaps in provision.

To find out more about the PCSP, contact 028 2826 2460 or email pscp@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Many of the people who participated have increased their involvement in their communities since completing the programme, putting their new skills into practice.

One of the most significant outcomes has been the connections made between participants, and a number of sessions have since been arranged to create the space to allow for networking and further training on peace building and conflict resolution.

Ald John Carson DUP ald.carson@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07891 338 220

Ald William McNeilly UUP ald.mcneilly@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07746 157 674 Ald Tommy Nicholl MBE DUP ald.tnicholl@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07970 012 520

Braid

Cllr Reuben Glover DUP cllr.glover@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07733 100 803

Cllr Beth Adger MBE DUP cllr.adger@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07976 533 483

Cllr James Henry Independent cllr.jhenry@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 028 2565 2456

Ald Robin Cherry MBE UUP ald.cherry@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07785 752 712

Cllr Stephen Nicholl UUP cllr.snicholl@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07967 621 603

Cllr Beth Clyde DUP cllr.clyde@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07724 906 855

Cllr Declan O’Loan SDLP cllr.oloan@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07764 220 533

Cllr Brian Collins TUV cllr.collins@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07745 220 564

Cllr Audrey Wales MBE DUP cllr.wales@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07899 985 110

Ald Sam Hanna DUP ald.hanna@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07710 402 693

Bannside

Cllr Paul Maguire Independent cllr.maguire@ midandeastantrim.org 07857 912 097

Cllr Timothy Gaston TUV cllr.gaston@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07514 213 186 Cllr Patrice Hardy Sinn Féin cllr.hardy@ midandeastantrim.org 07935 228 722

Cllr William McCaughey DUP cllr.mccaughey@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07739 875 626

Carrick Castle

Cllr Billy Henry DUP cllr.bhenry@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07599 400 857

Cllr Billy Ashe MBE DUP cllr.ashe@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07773 095 133

Ald Stewart McDonald TUV ald.mcdonald@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07793 848 107

Cllr Peter Johnston DUP 07803 968 402 Cllr.PJohnston@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

40 Councillors, elected in seven District Electoral Areas, working together to create a better future for all in Mid and East Antrim Borough.

Cllr Cheryl Johnston DUP cllr.johnston@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07545 151 992

Cllr Paul Sinclair Alliance cllr.sinclair@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07779 895 013

Cllr Noel Jordan Independent cllr.jordan@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07775 633 391

Cllr Andrew Wilson UUP cllr.awilson@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07414 478 808

Cllr Robin Stewart UUP cllr.rstewart@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07391 863 571

Larne Lough

Coast Road

Cllr Robert Logan Alliance cllr.logan@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07565 168 191

Cllr James McKeown Sinn Féin cllr.mckeown@ midandeastantrim.org 07719 335 416

Ald Gregg McKeen DUP ald.mckeen@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07944 641 251

Ald Maureen Morrow UUP ald.morrow@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07765 146 013

Cllr Dr Mark McKinty UUP cllr.mckinty@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07771 925 546

Ald Gerardine Mulvenna Alliance ald.mulvenna@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07970 896 367

Cllr Paul Reid DUP cllr.reid@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07713 511 407

Cllr Ruth Wilson TUV cllr.rwilson@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07771 965 206

Cllr Andy P Wilson UUP cllr.apwilson@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07754 963 615

Cllr Angela Smyth DUP cllr.smyth@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk ​07896 657 723

Find out more about your local councillors at www.midandeastantrim. gov.uk/councillors

Knockagh Ald May Beattie DUP ald.beattie@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07939 634 348 Cllr Lynn McClurg DUP cllr.mcclurg@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk 07794 602 517 Cllr Lindsay Millar UUP cllr.millar@ midandeastantrim.gov.uk

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DID YOU KNOW?

Meetings of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council are recorded, and the audio is available on our website: www.midandeast antrim.gov.uk/audio

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Get your game on!

Swing into action this year with a family membership for ÂŁ39 per month.

Seven Towers Leisure Centre

Larne Leisure Centre

Amphitheatre Wellness Centre

www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/MEActive