Ards and North Down: Exceptional Living Just Minutes from Belfast

1st May 2025

Copyright, Brussels Research Group "Ards and North Down: Exceptional Living Just Minutes from Belfast" [Published May 2025]

In this recent article, published by The Brussels Research Group (BRG), in an interview with Ards and North Down Borough Council CEO, Susie McCullough, BRG details how businesses and visitors are drawn to this coastal borough due to its "accessibility and affordability, while residents benefit from a thriving local economy and coastal charm. Boasting robust public infrastructure and a strategic location just minutes from downtown Belfast, this dynamic borough offers an exceptional environment for enterprises seeking to establish a foothold in Europe."

In the article, Susie stated, “We are ideally located just minutes from Belfast City Airport, making it easy for business people to connect with global markets. However, our true strength lies in our exceptional workforce—highly skilled, well-educated, and renowned for its low turnover. Beyond expertise, our local talent embodies a strong entrepreneurial spirit, driving innovation and startups across a diverse range of industries.”

The creative industries are a major growth sector in Northern Ireland, with start-ups and SMEs thriving in fields like film, digital media, gaming, and design. Internationally recognized for productions, such as Game of Thrones, the region continues to attract investment and drive economic growth. Holywood, a dynamic town within the council area, has evolved into a hub for film and television services including production, post-production, and digital innovation. The town of Holywood is linked to Studio Ulster, playing a key role in the wider ambition for Northern Ireland to become a hub for the global screen industry. 

Attracting Investment

Susie went on to say, “By exploring innovative approaches, such as offering ready-built facilities for businesses, we are dedicated to positioning Ards and North Down as the premier choice for investors”.

One of the Most Desirable Places to Live

Ards and North Down boasts Northern Ireland’s longest coastline, picturesque villages, and rich cultural heritage, making it one of the most desirable places to live. Strangford Lough and other natural attractions contribute to the area’s appeal, while investment in public green spaces and infrastructure aims to enhance residents’ quality of life. A key initiative is the development of a 40-kilometer greenway network, a scenic trail seamlessly linking major towns such as Newtownards to the City of Bangor. 

Efforts to enhance hospitality infrastructure in Bangor are also underway, with funding for new developments, including a marina, water sports center, and creative arts hub. Additionally, the Queen’s Parade regeneration project will strengthen the city’s hospitality and retail sectors.

Strengthening International Ties

“The region shares rich cultural and historical ties with the United States. Bangor played a crucial role during World War II, serving as a staging ground for American troops prior to the D-Day landings. This legacy is honored through ongoing commemorations... The United States continues to be a key market for us, and we warmly welcome businesses seeking to explore opportunities in Ards and North Down,” McCullough concluded."

You can read the original article here