Ballyhackamore Business Association Back Belfast

Ballyhackamore Business Association has thrown its weight behind the Backing Belfast Campaign, set up to tackle the dramatic drop in trade caused by street protests.

East Belfast has been one of the areas hardest hit by the recent civil strife. The constant disruption and closure of main roads in the area has had a serious impact on business and the wider community.

Members of the Association met this week with East Belfast MLAs Chris Lyttle (Alliance), Robin Newton (DUP) and Michael Copeland (UUP) to address the crisis and seek their help for businesses in the area.

After the meeting, the Ballyhackamore Traders said they had discussed the serious impact on East Belfast traders due to the recent public disorder and welcomed the support from the local representatives.

Brenda Shankey, Chair said: "We need to keep positive and encourage local people to support local businesses during this time. It is vital to ensure we protect employment and community spirit at the moment and show people that East Belfast is an amazing place to live, shop and eat.

"This is a time when we need to work together and move forward positively and the MLA's and Traders of East Belfast are working together to restore confidence and encourage people to do business in Ballyhackamore."