Ritchie calls for public's views on the future regeneration of Craigavon

A new framework document for regenerating the Craigavon urban area was launched for public consultation today by Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie MLA.

The integrated development framework will identify key sites for regeneration and the most appropriate form and timing of their development.

Margaret Ritchie said: “This is a great opportunity for the people of Craigavon to get involved and have their say in helping to shape the future of their area. I believe the framework document will be a realistic delivery tool which will help shape the future of the Craigavon urban area. I would encourage everyone with an interest in the area to give us their views on these future development plans. They will be ambitious but realistic and capable of being delivered.”

The Draft Integrated Development Framework proposals will be displayed for a total period of six weeks in the following locations; Lurgan Town Hall from Tuesday 27 October to Monday 9 November , Portadown Town Hall from Tuesday 10 November to Monday 23 November and in Rushmere Centre from Tuesday 24 November to Monday 7 December.

Margaret Ritchie continued: “The main aim of this work is to ensure that the Craigavon area will have three complementary and successful centres, all with a unique offering within Northern Ireland. They each will have a distinct role and identity and will benefit from a greatly enhanced environment and range of facilities. Having a strong integrated Development Framework in place to encourage and co-ordinate private investment will be crucial in the efforts of the Council and its’ partners to secure and develop Craigavon’s economic future.

“I would like to thank the Advisory Group again, for giving their time, experience and expertise to the development of this Framework. They have worked closely with my Department, the Council and Tribal Consulting Ltd and I know they have an interest in providing a better future for Craigavon.

“It is important now that the people from Craigavon and the surrounding area take the opportunity to view the proposals and to comment on them. This will ensure that the final document takes into account the opinions of the people who will be most directly affected – the residents and business people of Craigavon.”

Mayor of Craigavon, Councillor Mrs Meta Crozier, added: “This is an excellent opportunity for Craigavon residents to view the innovative draft framework proposals which will play a vital role in helping to shape the future of our vibrant Borough. I would urge anyone who would like to express any views in the development of our three urban centres to come along to any of the locations listed and have their say.”

The Framework document, which was compiled by a team led by Tribal Consulting Ltd, aims to identify how the full regeneration potential of the area can be realised

Notes to editors:

1. The Draft Integrated Development Framework for the Craigavon area was produced by Tribal Consulting Ltd.
2. The funding for the Framework Document was provided by the Department for Social Development.
3. The draft Framework document proposals will be on display in Lurgan Town Hall from 27 October 2009 to 9 November 2009; Portadown Town Hall from 10 November 2009 to 23 November 2009 and in Rushmere Centre from 24 November 2009 to 7 December 2009.
4. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 90829078/07970 976894. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440 and your call will be returned.