Significant progress has been made on three major projects for the Mid and East Antrim area courtesy of the Belfast Region City Deal (BRCD).

The key projects in the area include the regeneration of the historic town of Carrickfergus, the creation of an i4C Innovation and Cleantech Centre in Ballymena, and the further development of The Gobbins at Islandmagee as a world-class tourism attraction.

Representatives from six partner local authorities attended a meeting yesterday (March 26) to review the progress being made on the £1billion programme of investment across Northern Ireland.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Deputy Mayor, Councillor Bréanainn Lyness, chaired the meeting and said: "The £80 million in capital investment, is delivering visionary projects that will redefine our borough. It will drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance our local area for decades to come.

"The regeneration of Carrickfergus as a heritage-led tourism hub, the pioneering i4C Innovation and Cleantech Centre in Ballymena, and the expansion of The Gobbins into a world-class attraction are more than just developments, these our investments in our people, our skills and our future. Carrickfergus alone is set to boost our local economy by £9 million, create over 150 jobs in tourism, and cement its place as the starting point of the Causeway Coastal Route.

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"This is a pivotal moment for Mid and East Antrim. As a council, we are determined to maximise this investment, ensuring it delivers prosperity, innovation, and pride across our communities."

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council's Interim Chief Executive, Valerie Watts, provided updates on progress across the region including the status of Business Cases and Contracts for Funding - alongside key highlights on progress being made by all partner organisations.

She added: "Excellent progress is being made across the programme of investment, which is now well into delivery phase, creating jobs, and leveraging further private sector investment.  Over half the projects are already in delivery including 13 projects at design stage and five with planning approvals.

"Construction work has commenced on the iREACH Health project in Belfast, whilst construction is nearing completion at the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre at Global Point in Newtownabbey. A significant milestone for the programme will see Studio Ulster, located at Belfast Harbour Studios on the North Foreshore move into full operations this year.

"In the Mid and East Antrim Council area, we are working tirelessly to realise our vision for Ballymena, Carrickfergus and phase two of The Gobbins. These projects are crucial to growing our economy and delivering future prosperity. The significant progress that's been made is thanks to the strength of the Belfast Region partnership and represents significant momentum since deal signing."

For more information about the Belfast Region City Deal, visit the Belfast Region City Deal website.