£15,000 of Grand Choice funding is available for local projects across Lisburn North, including Derriaghy, Harmony Hill, Hilden, Lambeg, Magheralave and Wallace Park. Successful projects will then be chosen by local people, with residents voting for the ideas they want to see happen in their area.
Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of LCCC’s Community & Wellbeing Committee, said:
“We are pleased to bring Grand Choice back to Lisburn North. The programme has already shown how powerful community decision making can be and this next round of funding gives residents another chance to put forward ideas that matter to them. I encourage people to get involved, share their views and support the projects that will make a positive difference in their neighbourhoods.”
Funding can be used for things like:
- Activities and events (online or in person)
- Workshops, tutors or performers
- Specialist facilitators
- Equipment or promotional campaigns to tackle local issues
Projects must run between November 2026 and April 2027 and support one or more of the ‘Take 5’ themes of ‘Connect’, ‘Be Active’, ‘Take Notice’, ‘Keep Learning’ and ‘Give’. You can find out more about the Take 5 themes here. Policing and community safety related projects will also be eligible for funding.
Councillor Declan Lynch, Chair Lisburn and Castlereagh PCSP, said:
“Grand Choice continues to help communities turn simple ideas into practical community projects. If you have an idea that could benefit your area, this is a great opportunity to bring it forward.
“You do not need to be part of a formal group to apply. As long as you have support from a constituted organisation, you can take part. Our team will be available throughout the application period to offer guidance in person or online. Every application will be checked to ensure it is safe, achievable and deliverable within the available budget and timeframe.”
How to apply?
You can apply online or download an application form here.
The closing date for entries is Sunday 20th September 2026. Voting will take place in-person at a Community Decision Event on Saturday 17th October, from 11am to 3pm at St Columba’s Derryvolgie, 211 Belsize Road, Lisburn, BT27 4DP.
To ask a question or get advice, email pcsp@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk.
Grand Choice is supported by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, alongside partners including the PSNI, Sport NI, Ark Housing, South Eastern Trust, Choice Housing, Apex Housing and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.