McGurk welcomes £4.5m investment to drive economic growth across Causeway Coast and Glens
Sinn Féin Councillor Kathleen McGurk has welcomed a three-year Local Economic Partnership Action Plan, backed by more than £4.5m of investment, alongside Invest NI’s renewed regional focus.
Causeway Councillor McGurk said: “Since Sinn Féin took responsibility for the Economy Department in 2024, tackling regional imbalance and ensuring investment reaches every part of the north has been a key priority.
“Conor Murphy began that work and Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald has continued to build on it, including through Invest NI’s new regional structure and the establishment of Local Economic Partnerships.
“I was pleased to welcome Aeidin McCarter, Invest NI’s new Head of Regional Business for the North West, to Council this week.
“I asked whether these changes were beginning to address historic regional inequalities. While it is still early, Aeidin highlighted encouraging progress, with increased engagement with businesses on the ground and strong collaboration with our Local Economic Partnership.
“Our LEP now has a three-year Action Plan backed by more than £4.5m. The Capital Grant Programme is already open, alongside plans to attract investment, develop international trade opportunities and support local businesses to grow.
“Causeway Coast and Glens has enormous economic potential, from advanced manufacturing and agri-food to tourism and life sciences, alongside the opportunities presented by Ulster University and our Growth Deal.
“There is still work to do, but we are now seeing regional balance move from a policy commitment to practical action, investment and support on the ground.
“I look forward to continuing to work with Invest NI and our LEP to ensure that translates into investment and good jobs across our council area