Work is due to start shortly on a major £2 million environmental improvement scheme across Rathfriland, Gilford and Markethill.
Confirmation came after it was revealed a contractor – Northstone – had now been appointed.
The latest developments in the long-awaited works have been welcomed by Communities Minister Gordon Lyons.
He said: “This important environmental improvement scheme represents a significant investment in the future of Rathfriland, Gilford and Markethill.
“This collaborative programme, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, the Department for Infrastructure, and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council provides a great opportunity to strengthen and revitalise these rural towns.
“This £2 million investment will transform key public spaces by improving accessibility, upgrading paving and lighting, and creating safer and more welcoming shared spaces.
“These enhancements will support local businesses and improve the experience for residents and visitors, helping these towns to thrive as vibrant and attractive places to live, work and visit.”
Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir said he was “delighted” to welcome the appointment of a contractor for this scheme, which is being rolled out under the Covid Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme.
“This investment is a great example of what can be achieved when government departments work together, along with councils to invest in our rural communities and make them places where people want to live, work and prosper,” he said.
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins added: “The Small Settlements Regeneration Programme is a great example of how inter-departmental can deliver real change for rural communities.
“I am delighted that my department was able to contribute to this programme in Rathfriland, Gilford and Markethill which will bring tangible benefits and increase opportunities for outdoor activity and active travel. I hope these improvements to the local environment will encourage more people to consider active travel for their shorter everyday journeys. ”
Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Councillor Jessica Johnston, said: “This investment represents an important step in enhancing our rural towns. Beginning works in Rathfriland this spring marks the delivery phase of a scheme that will bring long-term benefits to local communities, businesses and visitors alike.
“We appreciate the patience and cooperation of residents as works progress and are committed to keeping people informed throughout each phase.”
The scheme, funded through the Covid Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme, is a collaborative initiative supported by the Department for Communities alongside the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the Department for Infrastructure. The programme aims to regenerate small towns and villages and boost local economies.
The environmental improvement scheme will be managed by ABC Council, providing a coordinated series of improvements to the heart of each town.
Initial works will start in mid-March in Rathfriland, followed by Gilford over the summer and Markethill in Autumn 2026.
The works will include paving and surface upgrades which will “create more attractive and accessible streetscapes, enhanced shared spaces, upgraded street lighting and street furniture”.
