Another major cash windfall confirmed to help revitalise Armagh city centre

Public ‘linkages’ into Armagh are to be upgraded and improved after a major cash announcement from central and local government.

And equipment – including portable heaters and gazebos – will be bought to be used at key city centre events.

Communities Minister Paul Givan announced funding of £115,000 for a revitalisation scheme for Armagh City.

The Department for Communities (DfC) is providing £100,000, with Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council providing £15,000.

The aim of the scheme is to improve the attractiveness of the pedestrian linkages to the main car parks and transport hubs and to sustain and enhance the high quality event offering in the city centre.

Minister Givan said: “This is an excellent opportunity for Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council to build on its much improved City Centre.

“This revitalisation initiative, combined with the Public Realm improvements which have already been completed, will make the City more appealing to all those who live, work and visit Armagh.

“This funding will not only improve linkages throughout the City but will also help develop Armagh’s ability to host events for local residents and attract people in to the City to see what Armagh has to offer.

“Developing this scheme was one of the priority actions identified in the revised Armagh City Centre Masterplan and I am delighted that my Department and the Council have been able to provide this investment in one of our leading cities.”

The revitalisation scheme will include a comprehensive linkage improvement programme to improve the condition of key routes in the city.

It will also include the purchase of event infrastructure, which includes a mobile kitchen, outdoor heaters, gazebo trailer and tables and chairs, to be used at a number of key events throughout the year.

The scheme will be managed by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.

Lord Mayor Garath Keating said: “I’m delighted with the funding announcement of a further £100,000 from the Department for Communities which together with the council contribution will see a significant impact to key areas and improved access points to the city centre.

“This project demonstrates the strong relationship with the Department, and with whom we share the vision of developing our city and towns.

“Armagh City is a unique and dynamic place and this funding will contribute to what Armagh already has to offer, complementing and maximising the regeneration projects already completed and planned within the city and delivering high quality events which can be enjoyed by everyone will bring added benefits to the area.

“By investing in infrastructure for events this will enable us to continue to grow and develop our ambitious programme of events throughout the city.”

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