Mid and East Antrim Council up for three major UK awards, including Overall Council of the Year

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has been named a finalist in three categories at the prestigious 2025 APSE Service Awards, which recognise excellence in frontline public services across the UK.

The Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) is a not-for-profit body working with more than 300 councils nationwide. Its annual awards showcase outstanding local authority initiatives and the dedication of frontline service teams.

Mo Baines, APSE Chief Executive, said:

“With reorganisation on the horizon for many councils and increased discussions around greater devolution for local government across the UK, these awards are an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication of our frontline service teams and their tireless work to support and improve their local communities.

“Through innovation and tenacity, you continue to strive for excellence even in difficult circumstances.

“Congratulations to all the finalists, we look forward to seeing you in Glasgow!”

Three categories of recognition

Mid and East Antrim Council has been shortlisted in:

• Overall Council of the Year – alongside six other councils, including Antrim & Newtownabbey

• Best Public / Private Partnership Working initiative – a category that also includes the NI Education Authority

• Best Collaborative Working initiative – up against eight other finalists, including Belfast City and Derry City and Strabane District Councils

The council has also received recognition in Best Innovation or Demand Management initiative and Best Climate Action or Decarbonisation initiative, further highlighting its broad achievements.

Local projects in the spotlight

Alliance Knockagh Councillor Aaron Skinner 

Alliance Knockagh Councillor Aaron Skinner praised council officers for their efforts, stating:

“I’ll often be critical of council when things aren’t up to scratch, just like plenty of others. But it’s just as important to give credit when it’s deserved.

“Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has been shortlisted for three APSE awards this year, thanks to some fantastic work from our officers.”

Councillor Skinner pointed to three key initiatives that helped earn the recognition:

• A ten-year journey towards sustainability and decarbonisation across the borough

• MEA Outdoors, which uses social media to showcase the area’s natural landscapes

• The Science Summer School, a partnership initiative opening opportunities for young people

“These are great examples of what can be achieved with dedication and creativity. The officers behind them deserve real credit for making it happen,” Cllr Skinner added. “They’ve done the borough proud.”

Awards ceremony in Glasgow

The winners will be announced at the APSE Annual Charity Awards Dinner, in aid of Parkinson’s UK, on Thursday 11 September 2025 at the Glasgow Marriott Hotel.