Street art boost: Over 40 new murals planned across Mid and East Antrim with £85,000 investment

Street art on buildings in Ballymena town centre

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has confirmed an £85,000 investment in a new Street Art initiative across Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne, aimed at enhancing the appearance of town centres, celebrating local identity and engaging residents through creativity.

The project, led by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council (MEABC) with funding support from the Department for Communities, will deliver more than 40 new public artworks across the borough.

Planned works include fresh installations at Larne underpass, building on artwork funded there last year, enhancements to the Carrickfergus Castle subway, and new murals in Ballymena town centre.

The investment consists of £76,500 from the Department for Communities and an additional £8,500 from MEABC.

Building on past successes

The Street Art scheme follows the success of previous collaborative projects between the Council and Department, which have already transformed underused and neglected spaces into vibrant focal points for the community.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said:

“I am pleased to support this exciting initiative. It aligns with my Department’s vision of building inclusive, vibrant places where people want to live, work and visit. Public art is a powerful tool for regeneration and this project will leave a lasting legacy across Mid and East Antrim.”

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, also welcomed the funding boost, saying:

“This renewed investment in street art is a celebration of our people and places. These artworks will not only bring our town centres to life but also reflect the unique stories and spirit of our communities. We are proud to support projects that foster creativity and connection across Mid and East Antrim.”

A cultural boost for local identity

The initiative is expected to deliver a lasting cultural and economic impact by encouraging footfall, brightening public spaces and highlighting the borough’s heritage through visual storytelling.

The artworks, created in collaboration with local artists and communities, are due to be installed in phases over the coming months.