Ritchie announces framework for Craigavon urban area

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie today announced the commencement of work on an Integrated Development Framework to revitalise the Craigavon Urban Area.

Speaking about her announcement, she said; “Craigavon is one of the largest urban centres in Northern Ireland. Its designation as a new town in the late 1960s has been a major influence on the scale and nature of its development. However, it has a number of issues that need to be dealt with if it is to develop to its full potential.

"The Integrated Development Framework will help by identifying the full regeneration potential of the area as a whole and will provide a basis on which my department can use its regeneration powers, if necessary, to ensure realisation of this potential.”

The consultants appointed, Tribal Consulting Ltd, will work closely with both public and private sector interests, particularly those who trade or have land holdings in the area.

The proposals will identify key sites for regeneration, in particular how surplus land can be exploited to assist in the regeneration of the three town centres in Craigavon. It will also consider transport, access and parking arrangements and advise on how public areas can be improved to enhance the appeal of Lurgan, Portadown and Central Craigavon to shoppers, visitors and investors.

There will be extensive consultation on the plans as they are developed. The integrated development framework will take into account the major public realm schemes affecting Lurgan and Portadown, in which the DSD is investing £3.5million.

Alderman Sydney Anderson, Mayor of Craigavon, said, “Craigavon Borough Council is delighted to be working in partnership with DSD and Tribal Consulting Ltd on the Integrated Development Framework for the borough. As one of the largest urban centres in Northern Ireland it’s crucial that the full potential of the area is identified quickly and realistically. I look forward to the public consultation of the process and would urge everyone who has an interest in the area to participate fully."

The Minister for Social Development went on to say: “My department is committed to working closely with Craigavon Borough Council to do what we can to regenerate the borough. Therefore, I am pleased to announce that we have agreed to fund the preparation of detailed proposals. This work will be completed during 2009 and I have no doubt that it will start a process of transformation in the Craigavon Urban Area.”

NOTES TO EDITORS:

1. The Integrated Development Framework will be produced by Tribal Consulting Ltd, a firm of specialist urban regeneration consultants.
2. News Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078/07818 035258. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440 and your call will be returned.