Voting is now open for the 2026 High Street Heroes awards in Bangor and North Down. Retail NI launched the campaign at Bangor City Hall this week, encouraging residents to nominate independent retailers and high streets.

The awards include 15 categories and are decided entirely by public vote. Voting runs until the end of August, with winners announced on September 23. Two new categories this year are Best Post Office and Neighbourhood Police Officer of the Year.

Top categories include High Street of the Year and Overall Independent Retailer. Other categories cover butchers, coffee shops, convenience stores, delis and bakeries, fashion retailers, forecourts, generalist retailers, healthcare retailers, homeware retailers, off licences, and independent retailer employees.

Retail NI chief executive Glyn Roberts said Bangor has a strong mix of independent retailers and hospitality businesses. He noted the awards have no judges, with local shoppers deciding the winners. He urged people in Bangor, Holywood and the wider Ards and North Down area to take part.

Roberts also said retailers face pressures including rising costs and retail crime, making recognition important. The awards are supported by National Lottery operator Allwyn, SSE Airtricity and GigGrafter. Voting is available online and remains open until the start of September.