Support Local

Northern Ireland’s High Street Scheme opens for registration on 27 September so it is time to claim your £100 ‘Spend Local’ pre-paid card and support our local businesses by shopping in Ards and North Down!

Many traders have struggled throughout the pandemic but thanks to the Department of Economy’s £145million High Street Scheme, everyone aged 18 or over can give local businesses a vital boost by using their free £100 Spend Local pre-paid card.

With the support of funding from the Department for Communities’ Covid-19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme, Ards and North Down Borough Council is encouraging everyone to spend their pre-paid card within the Borough as part of an overall Support Local programme, ensuring that our local businesses benefit the most.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Mark Brooks, said:

“As we continue with our recovery from Covid-19, this High Street Scheme enables everyone aged 18 or over to support our local businesses. Many of our local retailers have gone above and beyond throughout the pandemic and this Scheme provides us with an opportunity to support them and bring a much-needed boost to retailers throughout Ards and North Down.

"All of our town centres and villages offer real value through great products and personal service. Our Borough has so much to offer and by using your ‘Spend Local’ pre-paid card in Ards and North Down, you will be helping to support local jobs and the local economy."

Communities Minister, Deirdre Hargey, said:

“My Department introduced the Covid-19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme to provide support to our towns and city centres to navigate their way through the challenges presented by the pandemic. In total, £1.75m has been allocated to Ards and North Down Borough Council through this Programme, which has helped Council deliver a range of initiatives aimed at assisting business. 

“I am pleased my Department has been able to support councils and businesses in their recovery.”  

Pre-paid cards will be issued from 4 October and must be used before the end of November. Registration can be completed online from 27 September or by telephone from 11 October.

To apply see: www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/high-street-scheme-spend-local-pre-paid-card

**Important: The Department for the Economy has confirmed they will NOT contact you via text requesting your bank details when applying for your Spend Local pre-paid card. Please be #FraudAware and share this information with friends and family to avoid being caught out by scammers**