Impact of Council reform up for discussion

Local business leaders who met to discuss Council Reform: Front (L-R) Sean McAllister, Plot Box; Linda Brown, IoD; Adrian Kerr, Arthur Cox; Anne Donaghy, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council; Karen Dundee, Galgorm Resort & Spa Hotel Back (L-R) Neil Patton, McCue Interior FitOut Solutions; Paul Caves, Stephens Catering Equipment Co Ltd; David Hamilton, Martin and Hamilton Ltd; Trevor Finlay, Vision Asset Finance Ltd

Leading law firm Arthur Cox facilitated a working lunch for them last week in association with the Institute of Directors (NI).

The new Mid and East Antrim Borough Council will have more power at a local level, be responsible for community planning and have a strengthened role in ensuring that the investment climate fits the needs of the area.

Adrian Kerr of Arthur Cox, chaired the discussion with Mid & East Antrim Council’s Chief Executive Anne Donaghy outlining the changes and how they would impact on businesses.

Topics discussed included planning, regeneration and economic development.

Mrs Donaghy also highlighted the importance of open discussion around the new powers and opportunities in Council.

She said: “The reform of local government will enable more decisions which matter to our communities to be made locally, by elected members. The Council has set an ambitious vision which seeks to enable prosperous, sustainable and healthy communities and has stated its intention to ensure there continues to be a strong focus on business growth and prosperity across the borough.”

Businesses requiring advice can contact Arthur Cox on 9023 0007.