Mid and East Antrim secures €5.8m in PEACEPLUS funding to foster community integration

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has been awarded €5,848,008 from the €1.14 billion PEACEPLUS Programme, a transformative initiative aimed at promoting peace and prosperity across Northern Ireland and Ireland’s border counties.

The announcement, made by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), also includes €7,773,997 for Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, bringing the total funding for the two councils to over €13.6 million.

The substantial investment will support a diverse array of projects in Mid and East Antrim, designed to address local challenges, enhance cross-community integration, and celebrate cultural diversity.

Developed through an extensive co-design process with residents and local organisations, the council’s Local Community Action Plan (LAAP) will deliver 15 projects under three core themes: Local Community Regeneration and Transformation, Thriving and Peaceful Communities, and Building Respect for All Cultural Identities.

Among the flagship projects are the creation of shared community hubs, upgraded sports and community facilities, and programmes to bolster health and wellbeing.

The plan also prioritises support for women, youth, ethnic minorities, ex-service members, and community leaders, with initiatives ranging from social enterprise development to festivals and veterans’ support.

At least 5,848 participants from diverse backgrounds are expected to engage in these activities, fostering shared experiences and understanding across the borough.

The council will lead the implementation alongside six project partners—Ballymena Business Centre, LEDCOM, Carrick Enterprise, Turning Point NI, Positive Carrickfergus, and YMCA Larne—and 13 associate partners, ensuring a collaborative approach rooted in local needs.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill hailed the funding as a vital step towards peace and reconciliation. “These projects will help build lasting relationships and create prosperity across these council areas,” she said. “I extend my thanks to everyone involved in progressing these ambitious initiatives.”

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly echoed her sentiments, noting the opportunities for cross-community collaboration. “These innovative projects will bring people together to improve lives and transform communities. I wish those involved every success,” she added.

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon’s Ambitious Plans

In parallel, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council will deploy its €7.7 million allocation to deliver 41 programmes, also shaped by a 15-month co-design process.

The council’s LAAP focuses on positive peace and reconciliation outcomes, alongside social, economic, and regional stability.

Key projects include three capital developments under the regeneration theme, supporting community infrastructure in areas such as Keady, Palace Stables, and Loughgall, alongside nine play projects. Additionally, 22 initiatives will promote thriving communities, while 16 will celebrate cultural diversity.

A Broader Vision for Peace and Prosperity

The PEACEPLUS Programme, managed by the SEUPB, represents a partnership between the European Union, the UK Government, the Irish Government, and the Northern Ireland Executive. With a total value of €1.14 billion over five years, it aims to support sectors including health, rural regeneration, and mental health services, while fostering grassroots change.

SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre praised the councils’ plans, emphasising their responsiveness to local needs. “These projects, co-designed with communities, will build peace and prosperity at a grassroots level. We look forward to seeing their impact,” she said.

Ireland’s Minister for Rural and Community Development, Dara Calleary TD, also welcomed the announcement, underscoring his department’s role in supporting the plans. “This funding empowers local authorities and communities to deliver priority initiatives, enhancing regeneration and reconciliation,” he said.

For Mid and East Antrim, the €5.8 million injection offers a unique opportunity to strengthen community ties and address longstanding challenges.

As the borough embarks on this transformative journey, residents can anticipate new shared spaces, vibrant events, and programmes that celebrate the diversity of their communities—laying the foundation for a more connected and prosperous future.