The Causeway Coast and Glens Growth Deal was officially signed on Wednesday by the Northern Ireland Secretary, the First and Deputy First Ministers, and the Finance Minister.
Providing a total of £129 million for the region, it is aimed at regeneration, infrastructure and tourism. The UK government and the Northern Ireland Executive provided £36 million each, and Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council is providing £57 million.
A key phase one investment of the deal is the Centre for Food and Drug Discovery at Ulster University in Coleraine. Other projects in phase one include a Foodovation and Skills Centre at North West Regional College in Limavady, upgrades to Coleraine Leisure Centre and a major regeneration programme for Dungiven.
Hilary Benn said: “The UK Government is committed to boosting prosperity and growth across Northern Ireland, and I’m delighted to sign the Causeway Coast and Glens Growth deal, which will unlock this region’s potential by creating opportunities and improving facilities.
“Our £36 million funding for this Deal will support digital and innovation projects, including the Centre for Drug Discovery and Pharmaceutical Innovation; the Foodovation and Skills Centre; and the Business Innovation and Incubation Hub, all of which will benefit the local community.”
Welcoming the deal, First Minister Michelle O’Neill said: “This £129 million Growth Deal marks an exciting new chapter for Causeway Coast and Glens, unlocking long-term investment in the people, places and potential of this region.
“The Executive is proud to be investing £36 million to drive forward projects that will create good jobs, support innovation and strengthen local communities, making a real difference to people’s lives. Ensuring regional balance is a key priority for the Executive, so that every part of our society benefits from investment and opportunity. This Deal is an important step in delivering that ambition and building a stronger, more balanced economy.”
Deputy First Minister, Emma Litte-Pengelly said: “This £129 million Growth Deal is a significant moment for Causeway Coast and Glens marking the move from planning to delivery. Backed by £36million from the Executive, the Deal will provide much needed support to get key projects underway, supporting jobs, strengthening local businesses and driving regeneration across the Borough.
“It will revitalise town centres, support businesses, and create more opportunities for people to live and work in the area. By working together, we can ensure this investment delivers real and lasting impact, supporting sustainable economic growth and creating opportunity for people right across the region.”
1/ 2 🔬💡Secretary of State @hilarybennmp has signed the #CCGGrowthDeal on behalf of the UK Government, which is providing £36 million to fund a Centre for Drug Discovery and Pharmaceutical Innovation, a Foodovation Centre, and a Digital and Innovation Hub.@CausewayCouncil pic.twitter.com/aJuMrdZQQl
— Northern Ireland Office (@NIOgov) April 29, 2026
Other proposals for phase two include a Business Innovation & Incubation Hub, Bushmills Regeneration, Cushendall Innovation Centre, a parking and transport project and the Portrush to Giant’s Causeway Greenway.
