Banbridge town centre will undergo a major £5million revamp.
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Council are consulting with councillors, businesses and retailers with regard to the proposed new public realm improvement scheme.
Initial concept plans for the town have been prepared and it is hoped there will be a positive engagement.
Alliance Banbridge Councillor Brian Pope has welcomed the proposals and believes that quality of life, walking and cycling, inclusiveness and the environment should be at the very heart of them.
“These public realm works present a huge opportunity to transform our town centre,” explained councillor Pope.
“Listening to local people is critical to the project’s success.
“I would like to see more pedestrian areas, trees and landscaping. A permanent place for events and markets. Disabled access improvements and more cycling provision for Banbridge’s thriving cycling community. There is so much potential.”
“The town can be a destination following a visit to the proposed Game of Thrones tour, a cycling hub and a place to enjoy the town’s heritage. A place to shop, chat, linger and share.
“It is also important that the town’s traffic issues are properly addressed to cater for the school run, shopping, visiting friends and family, or to meet work colleagues.
“However, if we prioritise through-traffic in the town centre to the detriment of all other quality of life considerations we could see the gradual decline of our much-loved town centre.”
“Therefore, these plans need to deliver enhanced communal and pedestrian areas. They need to complement our fantastic heritage and buildings and respect our environment and climate.
“If we prioritise quality of life and create a quality experience, then we can make the town centre even more successful.”
