Coleraine Shortlisted For High Street Of The Year 2025

Coleraine has once again found itself in the spotlight after being shortlisted for the coveted High Street of the Year 2025 award alongside Dromore and Lisburn, as part of Retail NI’s prestigious High Street Hero Awards.

The announcement was made today by Retail NI, with the winners due to be revealed at a special celebration event on Thursday, August 21 at the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge.

The campaign, now a staple of the local business calendar, recognises independent retailers and high streets that sit at the very heart of communities across Northern Ireland. Unlike traditional awards, the High Street Heroes initiative is entirely voter-driven, with local shoppers having the final say across 13 categories ranging from fashion and food to vital community services.

This year’s campaign has been run in partnership with Allwyn, the National Lottery operator, alongside SSE Airtricity and Gig Grafter. According to organisers, public engagement has once again exceeded expectations, with communities turning out in force to support their favourite local businesses.

Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive of Retail NI, said:

“These awards are truly powered by the public, which makes them incredibly special. Local people have once again rallied behind their high streets and independent retailers. Congratulations to all those who have made the shortlist. These businesses do so much to support local communities and keep our high streets vibrant, welcoming places to shop and socialise.”

Coleraine’s inclusion on this year’s shortlist follows its joint win with Newtownards in 2022. That year, Coleraine BID (Business Improvement District) spearheaded an innovative digital campaign to galvanise community support and drive online voting—an effort that played a pivotal role in pushing the town to the top.

With its mix of long-standing family-run businesses, modern independents, and a strong sense of civic pride, the town has continued to evolve while preserving its unique character.

Local traders have welcomed the news, with many taking to social media to thank their customers for the support that earned them a place among Northern Ireland’s high street elite.

Retail NI is now encouraging all shortlisted towns and businesses to celebrate their success and continue championing their high streets in the face of ongoing economic challenges.

Winners will be announced at what promises to be a spectacular awards evening later this month.