Council finalists in 2025 Local Government Awards
Mid Ulster District Council has been shortlisted as finalists across four categories in this year’s 2025 Local Government Awards.
The awards, organised by the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA), are designed to celebrate the exceptional efforts our councils make within their communities. They highlight innovative service provision, new initiatives, and the personal commitment of councils, councillors, staff, and partners. The categories focus on showcasing the dedication, hard work, and creative approaches that local councils provide every day, while also creating opportunities for local government staff and members to step forward and shine.
Mid Ulster District Council has been named as finalists in the following four categories:
-
Best Use of Data and Technology Award – Registration Appointments System Project
-
Engaging Communities Award – Connecting Pomeroy Project
-
Collaborative Partnership Award – Mid Ulster Labour Market Partnership
-
Communications Campaign of the Year Award – Home For Christmas Campaign
Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Eugene McConnell reacted to the announcement saying,
“It is a wonderful achievement to be nominated for this year’s Local Government Awards across not just one but four categories. It is testament to the hard work our officers put in to delivering projects that benefit our residents, show continuous improvement and contribute at a grass roots level to important wider government priorities. My congratulations to the individuals and teams involved and I wish them and our colleagues in other councils the best of luck in the awards ceremony at the end of March.”
NILGA President, Councillor Alison Bennington, stated, “Councils across Northern Ireland are committed to enhancing the communities they serve while also supporting wider government and civic initiatives.
"The Local Government Awards highlight the invaluable services provided to communities and local residents and serve as essential benchmarks for both government and civic sectors. They present excellent opportunities for councils to learn and grow, particularly in times when every penny counts, and we have finite resources.
"By learning from the best, we can continue to improve. This drive for advancement is at the heart of NILGA's mission and is evident in the commitment of each of our 11 member councils."
APSE Chief Executive, Mo Baines, remarked, “Across local government, day-in and day-out, our unsung frontline heroes go above and beyond to deliver for their local communities. These Awards showcase their commitment to the goals of continuous improvement and the delivery of excellence in public services. From maintaining beautiful parks and managing waste collection to attracting businesses and promoting arts, culture, and leisure, it is a real honour to recognise the fantastic work local councils do at the frontline. Congratulations and best of luck to all those shortlisted!”
The Awards cover ten categories and sponsor partners/support bodies contributing are: agendaNi, Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE), CCLA Good Investment, Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), Hays Recruitment, Local Government Information Unit (LGiU), Local Government Staff Commission (LGSC), Quadra Consulting and William Johnston Memorial Trust (WJMT).
Nominees were judged by an independent panel and the winning council in each category will be announced at a Local Government Celebration and Gala Awards Recognition Evening at the Game of Thrones Studio, Banbridge, on Thursday 27 March 2025.