In a joint statement, the Mid South West Region and the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council expressed their enthusiasm following the announcement by Chancellor Rachel Reeves that the pause in funding for Growth Deals has been lifted.
The statement read, “We welcome the news that the UK Government will stand by its funding commitments to the Mid South West and Causeway Coast and Glens Growth Deals. This is a very positive outcome which means that we can move forward on the development of our key innovation, green energy, and decarbonisation projects designed to boost the economy in these regions.”
Key projects, including the £22 million Centre for Food and Drug Discovery (CFDD) in the Causeway Coast and Glens and the Industrial Decarbonisation Programme alongside the Agri-food Robotics Automation Packaging Innovation Centre in the Mid South West Region, are now set to proceed. These initiatives are anticipated to generate millions in return investments and create thousands of jobs across the areas.
The councils emphasised the importance of these Growth Deals in achieving the UK Government’s commitment to sustainable economic growth, aligning with the Northern Ireland Executive’s Economic plan aimed at enhancing regional economic performance through the creation of quality jobs, increased productivity, and reduced carbon emissions.
The statement concluded with optimism, stating, “We look forward to engaging with the Northern Ireland Office in the coming weeks to progress these Deals to their respective next stages.”
Councillor Darryl Wilson has warmly welcomed today’s announcement by the Chancellor of the Exchequer that the Causeway Coast and Glens Growth Deal is officially moving forward.
“This announcement marks a pivotal moment for our Borough,” said Councillor Wilson. “The Growth Deal will open new doors for business, tourism, and innovation, allowing Causeway Coast and Glens to reach its full potential. We look forward to seeing the positive impacts of this deal unfold in the months and years ahead.”
