Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has announced £900,000 for a Public Realm Refresh Enhancement Scheme covering Bangor, Newtownards, Holywood, Comber and Donaghadee.

The initiative, to be delivered by Ards and North Down Borough Council, is part of ongoing efforts to support thriving town and city centres and builds on previous regeneration investment across the borough's five principal urban centres.

Announcing the funding, Minister Lyons said: "This underlines my department's ongoing commitment to supporting the regeneration and revitalisation of our towns and city centres. This funding will help protect previous public investment while improving the appearance, accessibility, and attractiveness of town centres for residents, visitors and businesses alike.

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"These enhancements will contribute to cleaner, more welcoming places where people want to live, work, shop and visit. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this investment will have across the Ards and North Down Borough Council area."

The Public Realm Refresh Enhancement Scheme will provide improvements including paving repairs, new and upgraded street furniture, feature lighting, planting, CCTV enhancements, parklets and placemaking initiatives aimed at improving the appearance and functionality of the five town centres.

Work on the scheme is expected to be completed in 2028, with the council contributing £90,000 towards the project.

Mayor of Ards and North Down Borough Council, Councillor Craig Blaney, said: "This funding award represents a significant investment in the future of our city and towns and will play an important role in enhancing the quality, appearance, and accessibility of our public realm. These improvements will help protect existing investment, support local businesses, and create more attractive, welcoming, and vibrant spaces for residents, visitors, and investors alike.

"We very much welcome the Department's continued significant contribution to this programme and look forward to working in partnership with the Department and our Local Action Groups to deliver visible, lasting improvements that will benefit our communities, businesses, and the wider local economy."