Uncertainty over funding for Antrim and Newtownabbey disability access projects

Antrim and Newtownabbey could miss out on finance for new disability projects as it may not be able to provide match funding due to the Covid-19 crisis, a report to council has stated.
Valley Leisure Centre.Valley Leisure Centre.
Valley Leisure Centre.

Previously, the local authority has benefited from financial assistance from the Department for Communities (DfC) through its Access and Inclusion Programme for a disability trail at V36 in Newtownabbey, a disability hub at Castle Mall in Antrim and a replacement sound system at Theatre at the Mill.

The sum of £29,000 was provided to replace the Old Courthouse Theatre doors which were installed last year.

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The Access and Inclusion Programme is aimed at improving access to and participation in arts and cultural activities by people with disabilities.

Five mobility scooters have been purchased for booking at no cost from a unit at Castle Mall to enable visitors to access Antrim Castle Gardens, Castle Mall and Antrim town centre.

A disability trail has been completed at V36 after the council’s parks section was awarded £29,000.

The Department for Communities is now carrying out a review of the Access and Inclusion Programme, ahead of a potential new phase in 2020/21.

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DfC has indicated that any 2020/21 programme would require match funding from local authorities.

A council officer’s report to the borough council’s Community Planning Committee said:  “Given the impact of Covid-19, it is unlikely that the council would be in a position to meet this requirement.”

Threemilewater DUP Councillor Stephen Ross asked for the council to engage with individuals and groups with disability if funding does become available.

Ballyclare DUP Alderman Mandy Girvan said: “I am glad we are going to engage with those with disability to see what they need.”

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter.

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