Allister champions Ballymena: MP drives action to bolster town centre

Inset: North Antrim MP Jim Allister

A renewed push to improve safety and cleanliness in Ballymena town centre is underway, as North Antrim MP Jim Allister steps up efforts to support local businesses and restore confidence among shoppers and visitors.

Working alongside Ballymena Chamber of Commerce and Ballymena BID, the TUV leader has led a series of interventions aimed at tackling two of the most visible concerns in the town: police presence and street standards.

Focus on safety and visibility

At the request of the Chamber, Mr Allister challenged the PSNI to increase uniformed patrols during busy weekend periods — a move designed to reassure the public and strengthen the town’s growing retail and hospitality sectors.

In a response issued on 23 March 2026, the PSNI addressed calls for enhanced policing on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.

Commenting on the engagement, Mr Allister said:

“A vibrant town centre must be a welcoming one. By ensuring a strong uniformed police presence, we are supporting our local businesses and ensuring Ballymena continues to be a safe, attractive destination for families and visitors alike.”

Cleanliness concerns addressed

Alongside policing, concerns over the condition of the town centre — including overflowing bins and weed growth — prompted direct engagement with the local council on 10 March.

Following that intervention, the council confirmed on 20 March that daily cleansing teams are active, with bins in key areas now serviced every day. The Parks Department has also been tasked with reviewing weed treatment across the town centre.

Mr Allister welcomed the response, signalling that maintaining high standards is essential to Ballymena’s appeal.

“Constant advocacy” for the town

The MP praised the ongoing collaboration between Ballymena BID, the Chamber of Commerce and public bodies, describing it as critical to unlocking the town’s potential.

He added:

“Ballymena is a town with incredible potential, but it requires constant advocacy to ensure our streets are kept to a high standard and our shoppers feel secure.

“My office is working hand-in-hand with the Chamber and the BID to address these practical challenges head-on. By getting the basics right, we are protecting the future of our town centre and supporting the hardworking traders who make Ballymena what it is.”

Local support for improvement efforts

TUV Ballymena councillor Matthew Armstrong also highlighted the importance of continued progress, particularly in a year marking a significant milestone in the town’s history.

“2026 marks 400 years since the land that became Ballymena was granted to the Adair family by Charles I and the strong working relationships that are being fostered locally to help the town flourish as it ought are to be welcomed,” he said.

“Council have their part to play too and I will continue to argue for improved service delivery in our town centre and surrounding areas to achieve this goal.”

A push for momentum

The coordinated effort reflects a growing recognition that small but visible improvements — from cleaner streets to a stronger police presence — play a vital role in shaping public perception and driving footfall.

For Ballymena, the message is clear: getting the basics right could be key to securing the long-term future of its town centre.

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At a glance

• Jim Allister has led efforts to improve Ballymena town centre

• Focus areas include policing visibility and street cleanliness

• PSNI responded to calls for increased weekend patrols

• Council confirmed daily bin servicing and ongoing cleansing work

• Weed treatment across the town centre under review

• Collaboration with Chamber of Commerce and Ballymena BID ongoing

• Initiative aims to boost confidence among shoppers and businesses

• 2026 marks 400 years since Ballymena’s historic land grant

• Local representatives continue to push for improved services