Following a £300,000 joint funding commitment from the Department for Communities (DfC) and the Department for the Economy (DfE), new strategies to drive inclusive economic and social development in the North West and Larne regions were formally launched at Stormont this week.
This investment will support a series of pilot projects designed to unlock economic potential, empower local communities, regenerate deprived areas, and encourage innovation in green and sustainable industries.
Led by Enterprise North West and supported by 25+ key community anchor organisations, Derry City and Strabane District Council (DCSDC), NWRC, Londonderry Chamber, Ulster University and NIHE, the North West Community Wealth Building Partnership aims to improve the lives of people, support inclusive and sustainable economic growth and create more successful places across the DCSDC area with capital development plans worth over £50M as well as a large number of projects.
Led by LEDCOM and supported by key local partners including Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Access Employment Ltd (AEL), Larne Business Forum, Northern Regional College, Choice, the Port of Larne and Larne Football Club, the Larne Community Wealth Building Partnership aims to deliver transformational change, where it is expected that the programme will support the creation of approximately 2,000 new jobs with £50M of related investment over the next decade.
Both partnerships align directly with DfC’s key strategic outcomes and according to Brian O’Neill, North West Community Wealth Building Partnership Co-Chair:
“it is recognised that sustained change begins at a grassroots level, which is why initiatives like these are so important. By setting the stage for lasting economic and social prosperity in our local communities, it’s a bold commitment to reshaping our local economy so that it works for everyone.”
“We’re really looking forward to moving forward with our place-based initiatives and aim to make a significant difference to our local communities and the people who reside in them.”
David Hunter, Programme Director of the Larne Community Wealth Building Partnership, added:
“These partnerships are the first of their kind in Northern Ireland and demonstrate what can be achieved when Departments, Councils and local anchor organisations work together,” David explained.
“They support DfC’s mission to tackle deprivation and build community wellbeing, while also ensuring that DfE’s economic priorities are developed from the ground up – rooted in the strengths, needs and ambitions of local places. This approach will help create more resilient, sustainable and prosperous regional economies.”
“We are committed to delivering lasting change in both Larne and the North West. Our aim is to build a replicable local model that delivers measurable benefits for people, businesses and communities alike.”
Speaking at the launch, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said: “Today’s launch of the Larne and North West Community Wealth Building Partnerships Prospectuses is a significant milestone which celebrates the vision and determination of all involved.
“They show how the concept of Community Wealth Building can be turned into practical action, through collaboration and local leadership. I want to acknowledge the significant strides we have made in advancing Community Wealth Building in Northern Ireland and want to sincerely thank all those involved for their commitment and leadership. Your work is making a real and lasting difference.”
Economy Minister, Dr Caoimhe Archibald added: “Community Wealth Building initiatives are essential to supporting a more regionally balanced and inclusive economy where everyone can reap the benefits, whether that’s through employment opportunities or local regeneration.
“The pilot programmes in the North West and Larne will allow us to explore innovative approaches to local job creation and economic prosperity, helping communities thrive and ensuring regeneration efforts deliver lasting impact.”
Elisha McCallion, Development Trust Northern Ireland (DTNI) added:
“On behalf of DTNI we welcome this announcement and the commitment it demonstrates to community-led economic and social development. It’s encouraging to see continued investment in approaches that put local people and towns at the centre of growth.”