The Causeway Coast and Glens Growth Deal has been formally signed today at North West Regional College, Limavady, through the Growth Deal Financial Agreement.
The signing represents one of the most significant milestones to date in the Growth Deal process, confirming the full funding package and enabling investment to begin flowing into transformational projects such as the Centre for Food and Drug Discovery (CFDD) based at Ulster University, Coleraine.
The signing of today’s agreement follows years of collaborative planning to bring forward a programme designed to boost productivity, enhance innovation, support regeneration, and create new opportunities for the region.
Collectively, the nine projects within the deal drive innovation, broaden skills pathways, strengthen communities, enhance environmental sustainability, and improve economic resilience across Causeway Coast and Glens.
The Centre for Food and Drug Discovery
Ulster University’s Centre for Food and Drug Discovery is a flagship innovation project within the deal, building upon our strengths in biomedical sciences and nutrition. The centre will be a ‘one-stop shop’ collaborating with companies from concept to commercialisation to enhance the wider health of the population and position Northern Ireland as a global hub for food innovation and drug discovery.
Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor, Ulster University said:
“Through transformation projects such as the Centre for Food and Drug Discovery, Ulster University is driving growth and development, boosting productivity and creating a strong pipeline of skills in key sectors in Northern Ireland and beyond. We are committed to economic and societal development, and in partnership with the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, the NI Executive, UK Government, and other strategic partners, today’s signing brings us all one step closer to unlocking the potential that an investment like this can bring to the region.
“It marks meaningful progress in our delivery of the CFDD, a flagship innovation project that will significantly expand our research and innovation capacity in Coleraine. The centre has been developed in response to the strategic needs of the life science sector and will build upon our extensive collaboration with industry partners. We will shape healthier futures through the development and market introduction of effective drugs and functional foods that can prevent disease, improve wellbeing and reduce long‑term healthcare burdens.”
Professor Victor Gault, Pro-Vice- Chancellor & Executive Dean of the Faculty of Life and Health Sciences said:
“At the heart of the Centre for Food and Drug Discovery is a genuine partnership between academia and industry, working to drive new ideas and commercial opportunities. Through the Growth Deal, we are creating the conditions for innovation, investment, and high‑value jobs that will deliver long‑term economic and social benefits for the Causeway Coast and Glens region.”
Professor Chris Gill of Digestive Health and Project Lead for the Centre for Food and Drug Discovery said:
“The new centre capitalises on our research excellence. This “one stop shop” with its wrap around business support services provides an innovation pipeline accessible to companies of all scales; facilitating access to a wide range of facilities and services including a GLP toxicology suite, analytical and genomic technologies alongside a bespoke clinical trials unit supporting food, drug and device-based interventions aimed at improving health in our communities.”
What is a City & Growth deal?
A City or Growth Deal is a package of funding and decision-making powers negotiated by government and local authorities, with the aim of harnessing additional investment, creating new jobs, and speeding up inclusive and sustainable economic growth in specific areas. They are agreements between the UK Government, local governments, and partners, and the cities and regions are key beneficiaries rather than individual organisations or establishments.
They bring together all levels of government to make long-term investments that are tailored to the needs and strengths of the region. Partner organisations, including Ulster University, bring vital financial investment, expertise and thought leadership to accelerate and unlock the potential of the region.
Moving away from a one-size-fits-all investment model, over 26 City Deals have been agreed across the UK to date. Northern Ireland is benefitting from a combined investment package of £1.2 billion across four City and Growth Deals and we are a partner in Belfast Region City Deal, Derry~Londonderry and Strabane City Region Deal and Causeway Coast and Glens Growth Deal.
At the official signing event, Ministers from the Northern Ireland Executive shared their thoughts on this significant milestone for the Causeway Coast and Glen’s region.
Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Oliver McMullan, said:
“This Growth Deal is not simply an investment in infrastructure; it is an investment in our people, our places and our future. The commitments confirmed today will help drive innovation, support new skills, regenerate our towns, and ensure that the Borough continues to be a place where people want to live, work, study and visit.”
First Minister, Michelle O’Neill MLA said:
“This £129 million Growth Deal marks an exciting new chapter for Causeway Coast and Glens, unlocking long-term investment in the people, places and potential of this region.
“The Executive is proud to be investing £36 million to drive forward projects that will create good jobs, support innovation and strengthen local communities, making a real difference to people’s lives. Ensuring regional balance is a key priority for the Executive, so that every part of our society benefits from investment and opportunity. This Deal is an important step in delivering that ambition and building a stronger, more balanced economy.”
Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly MLA said:
“This £129 million Growth Deal is a significant moment for Causeway Coast and Glens marking the move from planning to delivery. Backed by £36million from the Executive, the Deal will provide much needed support to get key projects underway, supporting jobs, strengthening local businesses and driving regeneration across the Borough. “
It will revitalise town centres, support businesses, and create more opportunities for people to live and work in the area. By working together, we can ensure this investment delivers real and lasting impact, supporting sustainable economic growth and creating opportunity for people right across the region.”
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP said:
“The UK Government is committed to boosting prosperity and growth across Northern Ireland, and I’m delighted to sign the Causeway Coast and Glens Growth deal, which will unlock this region’s potential by creating opportunities and improving facilities.
“Our £36 million funding for this Deal will support digital and innovation projects, including the Centre for Drug Discovery and Pharmaceutical Innovation; the Foodovation and Skills Centre; and the Business Innovation and Incubation Hub, all of which will benefit the local community.”
For more information on the Centre for Food and Drug Discovery visit Centre for Food & Drug Discovery | CFDD or watch on Youtube
