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Mayor urges Strabane businesses to secure town centre future ahead of key Love Strabane ballot

30 September 2026

Local traders across Strabane are being urged to back a new five-year vision for the town centre as voting papers issue for the continuation of Love Strabane, formerly known as Strabane BID.

With postal ballots closing on October 15th, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Grace Uí Niallais, joined local business leaders to highlight what is at stake for the high street as the organisation seeks a mandate for its 2026–2031 Business Plan.

The renewal vote comes at a transformational time for the area, coinciding with significant public realm improvements, the multi-million-pound City Deal regeneration programme and Strabane’s bid to become Town of Culture 2028.

A third term for the Business Improvement District would ensure local traders remain directly involved in shaping these major developments.

Speaking during a visit to meet town centre traders, Mayor Grace Uí Niallais said the organisation provides a crucial anchor for the local business community.

"Love Strabane has played an invaluable role in championing and supporting our local traders, helping to build a stronger, more resilient town centre," Mayor Uí Niallais said. "With historic investments moving forward, having a dedicated representative body ensures our business community stays at the heart of Strabane’s future success."

The proposed five-year plan represents a planned £650,000 investment directly into the town centre, funding tailored marketing campaigns, footfall-driving festivals, and dedicated business support programmes.

The organisation also oversees the popular Love Strabane Gift Card, which keeps consumer spending within the local economy and provides a full-time Town Centre Manager to advocate for traders on daily operational and strategic issues.

Advocates for the 'Yes' vote point out that without the renewal, these centralized initiatives would draw to a close, leaving the high street without its unified promotional voice and targeted support to help local traders maximize the benefits of incoming capital investment.

The full five-year plan can be viewed online at www.lovestrabane.com/business-plan/.