Second Call for Urban Investment Fund

July 2, 2021

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council (LCCC) is seeking expressions of interest to its successful Urban Investment Fund.  To date £337,000 has been invested to support local entrepreneurs open new 11 businesses and radically revamp seven in the council area.

This grant programme is funded through the Department for Communities (DfC) COVID-19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme.  Administered by the council it aims to support economic growth and resilience in the urban centres of Lisburn, Dundonald and Carryduff. 

We want local businesses and entrepreneurs to submit an expression of interest now.  New businesses wishing to renovate a vacant property; or existing businesses planning to expand and repurpose part of a currently occupied property, or change the use of an area are welcome. Grants ranging from £7,500 to £25,000 per business are available for interior and exterior improvements to commercial properties.

Alderman Amanda Grehan, Development Committee Chair, speaking about this capital grant opportunity said: “The Urban Investment Fund has been a great success for our council area, attracting new visitors and boosting our local economy. I am delighted we can offer a second call for this grant which has been beneficial to date. I would encourage local entrepreneurs with a business idea to get in touch.

“This fund has attracted a wide range of new businesses with many independent retailers making the Lisburn Castlereagh area the place to start their business.  It has also supported existing businesses to revamp their business or premises. I look forward to welcoming more new businesses to our area.”

Councillor Hazel Legge, Development Committee Vice-Chair added: “The Urban Investment Fund has attracted unique businesses to Lisburn and Castlereagh. We have The Geek Retreat, The Running Bubble, RT Computing, Ruean Thai Square and Blush Lounge in Lisburn. In Carryduff The Beaut Cube has been a fantastic addition with more businesses due to open soon.''

Visit www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/business for more information.  For an expression of interest form please email Melanie at melanie.finn@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

The council will accept expressions of interest until 5.00pm on 16th July 2021. These will be assessed and successful submissions will be invited to complete a full application in due course.