Funding Secured To Improve Town Centres In NI

A total of £435,000 funding has been allocated to improve and enhance the town centres in Craigavon, Lurgan and Portadown.The Northern Ireland Executive, through the Department for Communities, is investing approximately £300,000 in the project. Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council is investing a further £135,000.Craigavon will see improvements to linkages between the business, retail and leisure areas whilst at the same time making the Lakeview Road bridge more welcoming, attractive and safe for all users.Lurgan town centre will benefit from a facelift to vacant properties, a bespoke music festival and a marketing campaign to promote the town which included the delivery of two successful themed Christmas markets.Portadown will see improved signage, themed markets, including the recent Christmas market, business mentoring and a range of events to promote the evening economy. This will further complement the £2.68million already announced for a public realm scheme which is due to begin in Portadown in spring 2017.