Exciting and innovative economic improvements and environmental recreational projects will continue over the next number of years as the Council realises the full potential of the river and its hinterland for investment in housing, recreation, tourism and commercial purposes, while protecting the natural environment.

The council looks forward to playing its part, along with other key organisations, over the years to come in making this dream a reality. As part of the Council's firm commitment to the regeneration of the Lagan Corridor it has recently opened the new £25 million Lagan valley Island Civic, Arts and Conference Centre on what was the old Island Mill site close to Union bridge in Lisburn town centre.

As part of this scheme the Council has restored and reinstated the original Lock and once again opened a navigable stretch of canal not open since the late 1950s. It is hoped that this will act as a catalyst for further development at other locks. Much work has been done, and much more is planned, to make this 7 mile stretch of river more accessible and once more a key attraction and feature of the lagan Valley.

Lisburn City Council commenced an initial programme of much needed environmental improvements in the Millbrook Huguenot riverside area. This work was carried out under contract by Voluntary Services Lisburn who have cleared vegetation, resurfaced paths, replaced seats and painted out graffiti.

The Council were also ably assisted by Business in the Community, who put together a team of employee volunteers from the Borough, and made an invaluable contribution to a one day clean up operation.

Lisburn City Council also organised a Big Lagan Clean Up where, in addition to 72 bicycles, 59 tyres, and three motorcycles, several washing machines, fridges, sofas, and shopping trolleys were unearthed during the clean up between the Union Bridge, the Lagan Valley Island and the Blue Bridge at Hilden.

Sixty-five people participated in the cleaning operation including cadets from H Company 2nd NI Bn Army Cadet Force, Voluntary Services LIsburn, Council employees and local residents.

In May 2001, Lagan Valley Island will be the centre of attention when it plays host to several hundred delegates attending the 2001 World Canals Conference which is being held in Ireland for the first time. Lisburn City Council, working with its colleagues in the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure, have collaborated with Waterways Ireland to ensure that the new Lagan Valley island is a scheduled visit on 17th May for those attending the conference. The theme of the conference is Living Heritage. The presentations and workshops will consider different approaches to the restoration, management and development of waterways in the light of conflicting requirements of economic development and heritage protection.

Lisburn City Council will continue to work in partnership with central government, the local community, conservation and sporting bodies to try and acquire the necessary funding to reopen the 12 miles of lagan Navigation between Lisburn and Belfast.

The Council recognises that the River Lagan is one of the most attractive features in the Borough and by taking a pride in the riverside environment, this important asset can be further developed for the enjoyment and use of the local community and visitors alike.