She spoke ahead of the launch of the Alliance’s Local Government Election Manifesto, which includes a number of measures to maximize each area’s potential in business, tourism and regeneration.
This includes, but is not limited to, plans to introduce ‘hubs’ in council areas to connect businesses directly to FE colleges, to develop an integrated sustainable tourism strategy, and to develop new and innovative investment and financing models for explore our cities. , towns and villages, among other measures.
“Small businesses play an absolutely vital role in the fabric of our local economies, and Alliance councilors will steadfastly advocate for greater support for them,” said Niamh.
“We firmly believe that further expansion of the support already available, together with the targeted prioritization of city centers in terms of regeneration, are key to generating wealth in local areas, creating local jobs and building vibrant communities. , affluent communities across Northern Ireland.
“Local councils are at the heart of our communities and we believe they are best equipped to make informed decisions about regeneration in each area and provide local solutions based on the community’s specific social needs and circumstances. To make that happen, we want to see the urgent devolution of the powers needed to make this happen.
“To help work on this, we are also committed to major reforms in the planning process to make it faster and more effective.
“Each municipal area has invaluable individual assets to offer, and the measures we propose will seek to maximize their potential and provide benefits for local residents and tourists alike.”
