There is hope today (Sunday 15 September) that UK Government City Deal Funding will continue for a number of major projects across Mid and East Antrim Borough and Greater Belfast area.
Earlier this week the UK Labour Government appeared to have put on a pause on the City Deals, which are part of a broader regeneration initiative, involving over £1.5 billion, with approximately £600 million directly from central government coffers.
The move sparked concern and criticism from local leaders.
With the decision threatening local projects such as the £24M i4C Innovation Centre in Ballymena - a green energy innovation hub, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council issued a statement saying it was “extremely disappointed” at the news. Only earlier this week the local authority had announced the appointment of WH Stephens as the design team.
Other projects funded in Mid and East Antrim under the City Deal funding include The Gobbins Phase 2 and Carrickfergus Regeneration.
On Saturday evening however, Northern Ireland’s deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelley offered hope stating both City Deals for the Greater Belfast area and the North West will proceed.
The deputy First Minister commented:
“A significant amount of confusion has been allowed to develop. This isn't acceptable.
“Nevertheless, It is welcome that some clarity has emerged this evening, following collective efforts.
“I have also received clarity from Northern Ireland Office that the Greater Belfast City Deal is unaffected.”
Emma Little-Pengelley also outlined the following current position:
- Greater Belfast City Deal and Projects will proceed
- North West City Deal will proceed to signing on Wednesday and unaffected by "pause"
- the two other deals "paused" pending Spending Review consideration.
She added:
“We continue to push for these to proceed.”
Meanwhile the DUP Group on Causeway Coast & Glens Council are seeking an urgent council meeting to discuss the implications of the potential loss of £36M funding for City Deals across the Borough.