Council seeks direct powers to transform towns and villages

Following a motion which was proposed by Councillor Glen Finlay and seconded by Councillor Stephen Ross, and Councillor Roisin Lynch, the Council will seek additional powers and resources to regenerate towns and villages, part of its ‘Back In Business’ campaign.
 
The motion read:

"In recognition of the consultation on Programme for Government, Investment Strategy and Budget, lobbying by NILGA and other stakeholders, we call on this council to write to The Executive Office and the Department for Communities to request the transfer of full regeneration powers and associated resources to local authorities as a matter of urgency. "

 
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Jim Montgomery said;

“It is vital that our towns and villages are supported in their recovery and regeneration. To ensure local priorities and need are met, it is essential that decisions and resources are driven by those closest to these communities. In building back our local economy the time is right to take this action, and Councils are ready to step forward.”