Retail NI has welcomed the early partial re-opening of Kilrea Bridge for cars and light vehicles, describing it as a “lifeline” for local traders. However, the organisation has again pressed the Executive to introduce a dedicated financial support package for affected businesses, modelled on the successful Sandy Row scheme.
Retail NI Chief Executive Glyn Roberts said:
“The earlier-than-expected partial reopening of Kilrea Bridge is a much-needed relief for the village’s independent traders, many of whom have seen footfall and turnover fall by between 25% and 50% since the closure began.
We appreciate the support provided so far by Land and Property Services in assisting traders with Rates Hardship applications. However, this alone will not offset the serious financial shock that dozens of family-run businesses have experienced.”
Mr Roberts continued:
“It is deeply frustrating that the Executive has still not brought forward a trader support scheme comparable to the Sandy Row model. The success of that scheme shows what can be done when government responds quickly and decisively.
“Kilrea’s status as a village should not mean its traders receive second-class treatment. Businesses in smaller towns and rural communities are the backbone of our local economy, and right now they feel forgotten. If the Executive can design support for Belfast traders, it can and must do the same for Kilrea and for other communities similarly impacted.”
Retail NI member and Kilrea business owner Kenny Bradley added:
“We invited Ministers on several occasions to meet with local traders. Some declined, others did not respond at all. Our businesses are not abstract statistics — they are family livelihoods and community employers. People feel let down and overlooked at a time when clear leadership and engagement are needed most.”
“Retail NI is again urging the Executive to engage directly with traders in Kilrea and to commit to a time bound support mechanism to stabilise businesses until full bridge access is reinstated."
