Circuses that exploit animals will no longer be welcome on land controlled by education and library boards.

All five boards have banned circuses involving animals from their property, while Belfast Board says any application would be carefully considered.

North Down Alliance councillor Andrew Muir said he has been battling to close the loophole since Circus Vegas performed in Bangor in August and is hoping he has succeeded.

“Evidence from the Alliance for Animal Rights details ‘Animals in circuses live a life of restriction, cages, chains and constant transportation,’ said Mr Muir.