A special site tour was held to celebrate the completion of a £1.4 million environmental improvement scheme in the High Street area of Ballymoney in County Antrim.

The scheme involved the upgrading of lighting, new paving and widening of the pedestrian walkways, new inlaid historical features and upgraded street furnishings. A strong emphasis was placed on improving safety and accessibility and providing improved space for public events.

CIVCO Limited were the contractors for the scheme while Nicholas O'Dwyer and WH Stephens made up the design team.

After the initial design work and public consultation was concluded, the work moved into the construction phase of the project in February 2024 and was completed on schedule in mid-November 2024.

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Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council recently hosted the special site tour for the scheme, which was fully funded by the Department for Communities.

Minister for Communities, Gordon Lyons, said: "I am fully supportive of regeneration schemes that help breathe new life into our towns and cities and support local businesses, ensuring long-term viability and prosperity.

"I hope the benefits of this investment will be enjoyed for many years to come and Ballymoney continues to be a place where people want to work, visit and live."

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Ciarán McQuillan, also welcomed the improvements.

"This scheme is a great example of how working with partners such as the Department for Communities can deliver improvements that attract greater business, hospitality and recreational investment, as well as creating safer and more appealing surroundings for locals and visitors alike," he said.

"I would like to extend our special thanks to the Department for Communities for their commitment and funding of this scheme, and to both the design team and contractor for completing the work to such a high standard."