Town Shopping

In addition to the recently published information on LOTS Grants, I wish to bring the following info on property grants to the attention of town centre tenants and landlords. There are 8 different grants in total, including renovation grants, repair grants, group repair schemes for terranced housing and disabled facilities grants. If you would like to find out more info, please contact TCM tcm@ballymoney.gov.uk or tel 028 2766 0238 and we can arrange a free no obligation inspection.

A Stitch in Time Wool & Crafts is soon to open its doors in unit 3a Castlecroft, just off Main St. Stockists of Sirdar and Wendy, as well as a wide range of haberdashery
Tel 028 2766 4159 . And for your alterations and curtain making, please visit the recently opened Sewing Room, just above the Clock Tower Restaurant in High St. Tel 028 2766 8446

Customers came from all over Northern Ireland to her shop in Church St that stocked items seldom found elsewhere. Retiring after 48 years of service, Mrs Gamble would like to thank all her customers for their support and dedication down the years. It is understood that the shop will remain open but with a different emphasis.

TRIM TONE TAN have thrown the covers off their new contemporary, ultra-modern facilities in Ballymoney.

One of the services retained from the old Video City store which previously occupied the Queen Street premises is the quartet of stand-up sunbeds, complete with new individual changing rooms, guaranteeing maximum privacy and comfort.

In addition to the tanning facilities is a spacious toning area boasting specialised beds, vibration plates, ijoyride and Human Touch Board.

Another new facility is the advanced beauty/cosmetic treatment area. Botox, dermal fillers, lip enhancements, etc, are available by a fully qualifies nurse while beauty treatments include Micro Current (non-surgical face lift), IPL skin rejuvenation, Microdermabrasion, teeth whitening and spray tanning.

The Gift and Wool Shop in Victoria Street has been rebranded "Sue's", selling a wide range of jewellery, handbags and accessories.
Worth a visit!

In the current economic climate, it has never been more important to look at our businesses with fresh eyes, in order to make sure that we are doing all we can to maximise sales. Merchandising, store layout & windows can be transformed, in many cases through a lot of effort and a small budget, but have a positive impact on sales.

Town Centre Managaement are inviting Ballymoney businesses to book their space on a seminar entitled “Creating Impact Through Merchandising, Store layout & Captivating Window Concepts”, presented by experienced retail consultant and local man George Lyons. The event takes place in the Council Offices on Tuesday 23rd September.

Commenting on the new initiataive Town Centre Board Member, Johnathan Payne, said, “As a former retailer in the town, I appreciate the importance of effective window dressing. Using the shop front is the one of the best forms of advertising you can get. Even the most innovative business can always pick up fresh ideas through attending such events. I would highly recommend businesses to get in touch with TCM to book their place.”

Joanne McLaughlin, Town Centre Project Officer further commented, “Even service sector businesses, who have traditionally not used their windows can benefit from this e.g. solicitors, accountants may learn innovative ways to promote their business through their shop front in eyecatching ways that boost the overall ambience of a town.”

“Window displays are retailers’ most economical form of advertising: they bring glamour, fun, theatre and art to the streets, while visibly expressing the shops image and aspirations.” Mary Portas - Mary Queen of Shops

Seminar Fee £25 per person – limited to first 20 spaces and pre booking is essential. Phone Joanne on 2766 0238 to book now!!

Foremost on the agenda of last weeks Town Centre Group Board meeting was the downturn in the global economy which is beginning to make its presence felt in Ballymoney as elsewhere, forcing shop closures and a slowing down on new investment.

TCM Board are keen to do whatever they can to overturn this trend locally and to strengthen the town as a shopping and hospitality base for those living in the area and the tourist population. One of the initiatives being progessed is the development of the evening economy by creating new events celebrating the town’s history and culture.

Ballymoney has many famous and important connections, around which town based events could be built, eg, playwright George Shiels, comedian and actor Jimmy Young, Olympic athlete Kennedy McArthur and American President William McKinley to name but a few. TCM has previously had success with pilot events promoting a George Shiels Festival and Jimmy Young Weekend and believes that these events, attracting more people into the town, will help boost the town economy.

Plans for events will be fleshed out over the coming months. If you have any ideas for events you want to share with TCM, significant dates that might be celebrated etc, please get in touch with Joanne at TCM - telephone 028 2766 0238 or email tcm@ballymoney.gov.uk.

What do you think of Ballymoney as a shopping town? Please feel free to email your comments to tcm@ballymoney.gov.uk. Thank you.

In recent years many changes of ownership and management have taken place in the town, adding to the vibrancy of the town's retail and hospitality offer.

La Petite Baguette in Victoria Street has been under new management since February 2007. Tel: 028 2766 2801

Buds & Bows in Main Street has been under new management since October 04 Tel: 028 2766 2146

Anne Shiels Jewellers in Victoria Street has been under new management since June 2005 Tel: 028 2766 2146

Clock Tower Restaurant, High Street, (formerly High Street Cafe) has been under new management since September 2005, Tel 028 2766 5400

Kidz & Kribz of Maiin Street (formerly The Nursery Nook) has been under new management since January 2007 028 2766 3118

Over the past twelve months we are pleased to welcome the following new businesses to Ballymoney Town.  New entrants during 2007 include:
Attitude Clothing in Castlecroft, for fashion-conscious children and teenagers.

The Lighthouse Shop in Main Street selling a wide range of quality domestic lightiing.

Armoy Homes in Linenehall Street (Estate Agents)

Coastal Residentail Management, Main St (Estate Agents)

Floral Chic opened January 2007 in Gate End

Internet Design 4 U openend in castlecroft Square for you web design requirements.

The Castlecroft Square site between Main St and Tesco is avavilable for hire for trade exhibitions, product demos and community events.  Please contact TCM on 028 2766 0238 for availability and rates or for an information brochure to be posted to you.