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Ritchie announces £2.7million facelift for Lurgan

Friday, 13 June 2008

There was good news for Lurgan residents today with the announcement of a two million, seven hundred thousand pound funding package by Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie.

Local people will enjoy many new benefits from a new high quality public realm scheme. The town centre will be better linked to side streets and will be more pedestrian friendly. The scheme will also boost the local economy and provide space for entertainment and other cultural activity.

Margaret Ritchie said: “Our towns and cities are the life blood of our communities. I want to create urban areas that offer opportunities for employment, for leisure and for relaxation; shared spaces where people feel safe together. I want to encourage investment in our towns and cities that contribute to our growing economy.

“These improvements will significantly regenerate and re-establish Lurgan. They will help create a high quality town centre in keeping with its original character and appearance.”

The total funding package of £2.7million is made up of £2million from DSD and also includes a £600,000 contribution from Craigavon Borough Council with Roads Service contributing £100,000.

Craigavon Borough Council will lead the public realm scheme, guided by a steering group consisting of elected members and representatives from Lurgan Forward, Planning Service, Roads Service, Translink, Water Service and the Department for Social Development.

Mayor of Craigavon Alderman Sidney Anderson said: “Craigavon Council is delighted to be involved with this scheme. This is a substantial investment in Lurgan which ultimately will make a real difference to the character of the town."

Notes to Editors:

  1. DSD is contributing £2million towards a £2.7million public realm scheme in the centre of Lurgan. The scheme will be taken forward by Craigavon Borough Council.
  2. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.