Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has announced the launch of two new funding streams under its DEA Local Investment Plan 2026–27, providing a combined total of £520,000 to support and strengthen local community facilities.
The Community Facilities Fund and the DIY & Technical Assistance Community Fund, both opening on Tuesday 9 June 2026, are designed to help community organisations enhance, maintain and develop their facilities to better meet local needs.
The Community Facilities Fund, with an allocation of £450,000, will support larger-scale capital improvements such as structural repairs, accessibility upgrades, digital enhancements and external works including landscaping and lighting.
Alongside this, the DIY & Technical Assistance Community Fund, with a budget of £70,000, will focus on smaller refurbishment projects and provide support for professional and technical expertise to help groups explore future development opportunities and assess project feasibility.
Both funds aim to enable community organisations to improve services, expand activities, strengthen community connections, and respond more effectively to local needs.
Community groups based within the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area that are properly constituted, hold appropriate financial accounts and public liability insurance are eligible to apply.
Grants will support a wide range of works including internal refurbishments, accessibility improvements, equipment purchases, environmental enhancements and associated professional fees where required.
The closing date for applications to both funds is Tuesday 30 June 2026 at 12 noon.
Chair of the Council’s Communities and Wellbeing Committee, Councillor Sharon Lowry, welcomed the launch: "Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is committed to supporting our local community organisations, which play a vital role in improving wellbeing and strengthening connections across our area. These two funding programmes provide significant investment to help groups maintain and enhance their facilities, making them more accessible, sustainable and fit for the future. Whether delivering essential repairs, small-scale improvements or exploring new development opportunities, this funding will help communities continue to thrive and respond to the needs of local people."
Full guidance, eligibility criteria and application forms for both funds are available via the Council website at: https://www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/w/community-grants
For further information, applicants can contact Community Services by emailing community.services@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk or calling 028 9244 7713.