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Five Chambers Unite to Form Ards and North Down Business Forum

Bangor, Newtownards, Holywood, Comber, and Donaghadee Chambers Join Forces to Strengthen Business Voice Across the Borough** In a groundbreaking move for the business community across Ards and NorthDown, the Chambers of Commerce from Bangor, Newtownards, Holywood, Comber, and Donaghadee have united to form the Ards and North Down Business Forum. This new alliance is set to provide a unified and powerful voice for businesses across the borough, promoting action, collaboration, and representation on key issues impacting the local economy. Bangor’s Chamber President Frank Shivers commented,

“Business is the cornerstone of the borough’s economy, driving wealth creation, innovation, and providing vital employment opportunities for residents. The establishment of the Ards and North Down Business Forum represents a significant step forward in ensuring the collective voice of business is not only heard but respected at all levels. It is a unified approach for advocacy and action which is lacking across the borough”. The Ards and North Down Business Forum will serve as a platform for collaboration, bringing together the expertise and resources of the five Chambers to address the challenges and opportunities facing businesses in the borough.

By working together, the Forum aims to:

– Advocate for policies and initiatives that support business growth and economic development.

– Provide a centralised voice to engage with local authorities, government bodies, and stakeholders. – Foster a thriving business environment that attracts investment and talent to the region.

– Highlight the critical role of businesses as wealth drivers and employment providers.

The creation of the Forum reflects the shared commitment of Bangor, Newtownards, Holywood, Comber, and Donaghadee Chambers to champion the interests of their members and the wider business community. By leveraging their collective influence, the Forum will ensure that the needs and contributions of businesses are recognised and prioritised in decisions that shape the borough’s future.

As the Ards and North Down Business Forum launches, it calls on businesses, policymakers, and the wider community to join in supporting its mission. By recognising the vital role businesses play in driving prosperity and providing employment, the Forum aims to foster a collaborative spirit that benefits all. Newtownards Chamber President, Derek Wright added:

“Our borough’s businesses are the backbone of our economy, creating jobs, driving innovation, and contributing to the vibrant communities we all enjoy. The Ards and North Down Business Forum is about ensuring that our collective voice is not just heard but respected. Together, we will work tirelessly to advocate for the support and recognition our businesses deserve.”

About the Ards and North Down Business Forum The Ards and North Down Business Forum is a collaborative initiative formed by the Bangor, Newtownards, Holywood, Comber, and Donaghadee Chambers of Commerce. Its mission is to provide a unified voice for businesses across the borough, championing their interests and driving economic growth for the benefit of all.

For media inquiries, please contact: Frank Shivers office@bangorchamber.co.uk 07876492050

johanne Jefferson

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