Ards and North Down Borough Council has launched a public consultation to develop a Community Strategy for 2026 to 2035. The strategy will guide the delivery of local services such as play clubs, summer schemes, volunteer support, and community centres across the borough.

Residents, community groups, stakeholders, and partners are invited to attend workshops to share views, priorities, and ideas with council officers and consultants. The engagement programme includes in-person events at various locations in the borough and an online workshop on 19 March 2026 from 7pm to 9pm.

The online workshop is accessible via www.ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/communitystrategy. Details on workshop dates and locations are available on the council's website at https://www.ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/communitystrategy.

Contributions will inform a strategy focused on community wellbeing, volunteer involvement, inclusive services, and vibrant community spaces. Councillor Gillian McCollum, Mayor of Ards and North Down, stated that the strategy will set the direction for community life over the next decade.

The mayor emphasized partnership with people across the borough to build active, inclusive, welcoming, and safe communities. She noted that residents know their local areas best and encouraged sharing thoughts on what is working well, what could improve, and what support will help communities thrive.