Local Economic Partnerships

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has launched the Local Economic Partnership Action Plan for the District.

Developed collaboratively with representatives from the business, community, voluntary, education and statutory sectors, the Action Plan delivers a series of programmes funded through the Regional Balance Fund. These programmes focus on creating good jobs, increasing productivity, addressing regional imbalance and supporting decarbonisation.

Summary of Actions

Productivity Growth Mentoring and Grant

• Gives structured support for up to 60 micro and small enterprises, including social enterprises.
• Offers mentoring on productivity, job creation and retention, market entry/exporting, energy cost reduction, sustainability, and leadership/management development.
• Participants may apply for a productivity capital grant, where a clear need and impact of investment is proved.

AI Empowering Business Through Awareness

• In partnership with AICC, Council will deliver AI awareness road shows in 2026.
• Up to 50 businesses and social enterprises will receive AI readiness assessments and tailored mentoring to explore opportunities for productivity improvements, operational efficiencies, improved customer engagement and competitiveness.

Derelict / Vacant Commercial and Property Mapping Research

• Council will conduct targeted research and mapping to assess derelict and long-term vacant buildings across key areas.
• The findings will inform the prioritisation of regeneration funding and guide future interventions.

Commercial Property Revive and Reimagine Grant – Placemaking and Regeneration

• Supports the restoration or growth of underused or derelict commercial properties and upper floors.
• Aims to create high-quality commercial space, attract new businesses, and help enterprises to grow.

Revive and Reimagine Property Façade Renewal: Feasibility and Scheme (Towns and Villages)

• Council will take on feasibility studies and deliver a grant scheme for commercial property façade improvements.
• Delivered in partnership with the Department for Communities and the Department for the Economy, this initiative will act as a catalyst for wider regeneration.

Mourne, Gullion & Strangford Geopark Sustainable Tourism Network

Supports a network of businesses adopting environmentally responsible practices to strengthen the District’s position as a sustainable tourism destination.

Participating businesses will work in:

• Food and Drink
• Outdoor Activities & Adventure (including wellbeing)
• Accommodation
• Culture and Heritage
• Transport

Council is committed to delivering the Local Economic Partnership Action Plan. Delivery will commence in 2026 and conclude in March 2028.