‘Celebrate Ballymoney’: Storey

The aim of the £239,000 scheme is to support existing traders in the development of their businesses, to promote the area as a destination for shoppers, and to improve the attractiveness of the shop frontages.

Minister Storey said: “Today really is a day for celebration. The completion of the revitalisation scheme is the first step in bringing the Ballymoney Masterplan to life and an excellent start to transforming the town.

“Not only is the town more attractive following the spruce up of buildings in Main Street and Castlecroft, but people can now relax with a coffee and take advantage of the free Wi-Fi on Main Street.

“In addition, the Ballymoney website, http://www.visitballymoney.com has also had an upgrade which will help encourage more shoppers into the town and while in the town shoppers can take advantage of a new Ballymoney town card which will offer cardholders exclusive deals in shops and cafes.

“The increased footfall which will come from these improvements will not only help boost the economy of the town, but it will promote a sense of pride for the people of Ballymoney.”

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Michelle Knight-McQuillan, who accompanied the Minister on his visit to Ballymoney said: “Main Street has greatly benefitted from the investment by the Department for Social Development and Council in a revitalisation scheme which has seen many of the buildings transformed along this key commercial street, helping ensure a brighter future for the town.

“The town centre is a conservation area and the work complements the ongoing work of Ballymoney Regeneration Company through its Townscape Heritage Initiative.”

President of Ballymoney Chamber of Commerce Winifred Mellett also accompanied Mr Storey on his visit.