New Mayor of Lisburn and Castlereagh looks forward to a busy year ahead

Mr Gowan took up his role as the city’s First Citizen at the recent Council AGM in June, and he has already had a busy start to the year.

A representative of the Downshire East ward, Mr Gowan lives in Annahilt with his wife Nicola, and their four children Hannah (10), Caleb (9), George (6) and Isaac (3).

Mr Gowan’s interest in politics began at an early age when he studied history, politics, and law at Queen’s University in Belfast.

“It was a great experience,” said Mr Gowan.

"After leaving university I got involved with the DUP on a voluntary basis. When the Assembly got up and running in 2007 I worked with South Belfast MLA Jimmy Spratt and I have been around politics in various roles ever since.”

Mr Gowan now works part time for Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart but despite working with politicians for many years, he never really saw his future as an elected representative.

"I didn’t ever really anticipate running for election,” he continued. “I got involved in the community in Annahilt where I live and thought I could deliver more through the council.

"An opportunity arose in 2019 and I have really been enjoying the role. You can really deliver as a councillor and the council has been really effective at delivering for the community.”

During his last term as a councillor, Mr Gowan chaired the Council’s Leisure Services Committee. He also served on the Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PSCP), a role he particularly relished.

"I found it really, really enjoyable,” said Mr Gowan. “It was a committee you could use in response to community issues around road safety, internet safety, speeding, etc.

"We got speed indicator devices installed, which have proved to be very effective in the communities.

"We have a good team in the PCSP.”