There is good news for retail and tourism businesses in the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council area.
To help the recovery of businesses, the council has allocated almost £1m of funding.
Now, 85 businesses across the borough will be provided with awnings to expand their premises and increase customer capacity whilst also adhering to social distancing.
The projects and schemes which are ongoing were jointly funded by Department for Communities (£507k), Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (£102k) and Department for Infrastructure (£363k).
A further £54k has been allocated to various regeneration schemes across the borough including Canal Walk improvements in Toome, and environmental improvements in Templepatrick and Glengormley.
To enhance the visitor experience in the borough, a further £20k will be invested in the brown signage for attractions and facilities.
The council is also supporting The Prince’s Trust which is aimed at helping young people aged 16-30 who live in the borough into employment, education or training.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Jim Montgomery welcomed the schemes and grants.
“Almost £1m will be invested across the borough and I am pleased we can offer a helping hand to those that need it most. It has been a challenging year for businesses in our borough and this funding will go some way to supporting their recovery through 2021,” he added.
For further details on council funding that is available for businesses in the borough, email business@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or text BUSINESS to 80039.