Mayor’s Welcome

Spring is a season of renewal, and I’m delighted to welcome you to this spring/summer edition of CityWide, celebrating the people, places, and possibilities that make Lisburn and Castlereagh such a vibrant place to live, work and visit.

As the days grow longer, our city comes alive with events and activities for all ages. I am especially excited to lead this year’s Mayor’s Carnival Parade and Family Fun Day on Saturday 9 May 2026.

This much-loved celebration brings together local schools, community groups and professional performers in a spectacular display of colour, music and creativity, reflecting my mayoral theme for the year, “A City that Sees Everyone.” It promises to be a joyful, inclusive day and I hope to see many of you enjoying the festivities while supporting my mayoral charity, Action Cancer.

I am thrilled to share that, thanks to your incredible support, we have raised a staggering £95,000 for Action Cancer so far during my term as Mayor, surpassing my £50,000 target. This means five Big Bus visits can be arranged across the council area, along with 375 breast screening appointments for women aged 40–49 and 70+. My sincere thanks go to all the businesses, charities, organisations and members of the public who contributed, as your generosity is making a real difference.

Community lies at the heart of everything we do. In this edition, you’ll read about local initiatives, council projects and partnerships that strengthen neighbourhoods, support wellbeing and create welcoming spaces where everyone feels valued. It’s a privilege to meet so many passionate individuals who make Lisburn and Castlereagh such a special place to live and work.

I hope this edition of CityWide inspires you to get out and about, try something new and celebrate all that makes our area unique.
Wishing you a bright, enjoyable Easter and a wonderful summer ahead.
 

Related links

www.actioncancer.org