Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council signed a £129 million Growth Deal on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at North West Regional College in Limavady. The funding includes £36 million from the UK Government, £36 million from the Northern Ireland Executive, and £57 million from the council and its partners.

The deal supports projects to address seasonal employment and low wages by increasing productivity and job opportunities. Phase One allocates 66% of funds to immediate priorities, including a Centre for Food and Drug Discovery at Ulster University in Coleraine, a Foodovation and Skills Centre at North West Regional College in Limavady, a Coleraine Leisure and Wellbeing Centre, and Dungiven Town Centre Regeneration.

The Foodovation and Skills Centre refurbishment will create 75 food sector jobs and train over 400 people each year. Phase Two projects under development include Bushmills Regeneration, a Cushendall Innovation Centre, a Business Innovation and Incubation Hub, a Portrush to Giant's Causeway Greenway, and a Connected Causeway Traffic and Parking Project.

Mayor Oliver McMullan called the deal a step to invest in people and places, creating jobs and revitalising towns. First Minister Michelle O'Neill said the Executive's £36 million supports good jobs and stronger communities. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly noted the move from planning to delivery, with benefits for local living and working.

Secretary of State Hilary Benn stated the UK Government's funding aids digital and innovation projects for the community. Finance Minister John O'Dowd and North West Regional College Principal Leo Murphy highlighted the deal's economic recovery role, with the Limavady centre set to deliver 140 innovation projects annually.