LISTEN - 6 NI councils in Westminster to secure £1 Billion Belfast region city deal

by Q Radio News

Partners involved in trying to secure a £1 Billion pound Belfast region City Deal are taking their campaign to Westminster. 

Six local councils are working with Queens and Ulster Universities; as well as Further Education Colleges to secure the bid.

The investment aims to create up to 20,000 new jobs and deliver a 10 year programme of economic growth. 

Following months of preparations, the partners which includes Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, Ards and North Down Borough Council, Belfast City Council, Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and Newry and Down District Council alongside the colleges, submitted their negotiating position to the NI Secretary of State and Westminster at the end of September. 

The deal focuses on accelerating inclusive economic growth in the industry areas where the region is experiencing the most rapid growth. 

It's four key investment pillars: digital and innovation, infrastructure, tourism led regeneration and employability and skills.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Chief Executive, Anne Donaghey says the investment would be a major boost for areas which have suffered thousands of jobs losses in recent years: 

The partners anticipate that an announcement will be made in the Autumn Budget statement on Monday 29th October. 

This would give them the green light to work up implementation plans.