Council Launch New ‘Make it Local’ Initiative

Chairperson Councillor Naomi Bailie was delighted to launch a new ‘Make it Local’ campaign which is being delivered across the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council area. Councillor Bailie identified this project as a priority when she took on the role of Chairperson and she has successfully driven the project through Council.

The initiative has been developed following a meeting during the summer between Glyn Roberts of the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association (NIRTA) and Councillor Bailie to discuss the challenges facing independent retailers in the current economic climate. Mr Roberts outlined the principles of the ‘Local First’ policy priorities for local economic development as identified by NIRTA and encouraged Council to develop and deliver initiatives which promote local goods and services.

At that time Councillor Bailie confirmed her support for ‘Make it Local’ initiatives and indicated that she would work through the Council to ensure the promotion of Local First. Councillor Bailie highlighted the need for Council to work in partnership with local retailers to ensure the sustainability of vibrant city and town centres across the district and said “I intend working with Council officials and representatives from the local chambers of commerce to develop a culture of ‘Make it Local’, thereby enhancing the sustainability of the region. I would encourage as many businesses as possible to embrace the ‘Make it Local’ approach to business practices”.

The ‘Make it Local’ campaign which was launched in Downpatrick last week is the result of this commitment given by the Chairperson to promote local goods and services. Each of the main towns in the Council area has been given its own Make it Local identity. A suite of promotional materials will be available for use in the towns. These include shop window stickers and promotional postcards for use at specialised events.

A programme of events are planned to highlight the Make it Local campaign. These include local craft fairs and markets which will promote the Make it Local brand, advertising materials to highlight the campaign and the production of a Voucher scheme which will be used to encourage people to shop locally. As further events are organised full details will appear in the local press.

Councillor Bailie said “ I am delighted that the ‘Make it Local’ campaign has been launched in time for Christmas and I would encourage everyone to shop locally for Christmas gifts. I would also ask that when shopping in future people adopt the ‘Make it Local’ message and help create vibrant and sustainable town centres across the entire district.”