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Ritchie welcomes start of work in Lurgan and Portadown town centres

Tuesday, 20 October 2009

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie today welcomed the start of environmental improvement works to Lurgan and Portadown town centres.

The improvement works, which will costs £8million in total, will greatly enhance the two town centres by:

  • improving accessibility;
  • creating a more pedestrian friendly urban environment; and
  • providing a safe and attractive place for people to live and work.

The Department for Social Development is contributing £3.5million to the scheme.

During a visit to the town centres, Margaret Ritchie said: “These improvements will be a major boost for both towns. It will help inject a much needed vibrancy into the heart of the town centres, making them a better place to live, work and visit.

“These plans, which have been three years in the making, have been brought to fruition with a concerted effort from a steering group lead by my Department in conjunction with Craigavon Borough Council. I also welcome a very experienced construction team, SIAC (NI) Ltd to deliver these plans.”

The Minister continued: “The launch of these schemes demonstrates my commitment to urban regeneration and economic development in Northern Ireland. The schemes will be the catalyst for further developments in Lurgan and Portadown and I look forward to seeing the work completed later next year.”

Mayor of Craigavon, Councillor Mrs Meta Crozier added: “I’m delighted to see the Minister here today to hear at first hand how the public realm works for both Lurgan and Portadown will make a difference to our town centres. Overall the £8million investment will bring some local employment within the construction industry. This is great news for Craigavon and will contribute to both town centres regeneration and development.”

The Regional Director of SIAC (NI) Ltd, Kieran Doyle commented: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to provide enhanced town centre environments for the people and traders of both Portadown and Lurgan. Having just completed a very successful project in Armagh, we take this opportunity to thank the Council, City Centre Management, the general public and traders for their patience and co-operation and we look forward to a similar positive experience in Portadown and Lurgan.”

Notes to editors:

  1. There is a total funding package of £5.3million for Portadown. This consists of £1.5million from DSD, £3.1million contribution from the Integrated Development Fund, £600,000 from Craigavon Borough Council and £100,000 from DRD Roads Service.
  2. There is a total funding package of £2.7million for Lurgan. This consists of £2million from DSD, £600,000 from Craigavon Borough Council and £100,000 from DRD Roads Service.
  3. SIAC (NI) Ltd, part of the larger SIAC Construction Ltd which operates throughout the UK and Ireland. SIAC (NI) Ltd is a local employer based in Newry and undertakes civil engineering and building construction works.
  4. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9496. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.