By Julie Waters
THE borough now boasts a ‘collective voice for business’ thanks to the newly created Ards and North Down Business Forum.
The five chambers of commerce from Bangor, Newtownards, Holywood, Comber, and Donaghadee have joined forces in a bid to strengthen the local business community.
The new alliance is set to bring together the expertise and resources of the five chambers to address the challenges and opportunities facing businesses across the borough.
By working together, the forum aims to advocate for policies and initiatives that support business growth and economic development and provide a centralised voice to engage with local authorities, government bodies and stakeholders.
The forum is also keen to foster a thriving business environment that attracts investment and talent to the region, as well as 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 has called on businesses, policymakers and the wider community to join in supporting its mission.
Bangor Chamber president Frank Shivers said 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,” he said.
“It is a unified approach for advocacy and action which is lacking across the borough.”
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.”
