Lurgan is to receive an investment package of £7m to help preserve and protect its rich built and cultural heritage.
The project is one of a number of initiatives aimed at transforming the town centre and will be funded by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council (ABC Council); Heritage Lottery Fund; private sector and public sector. The Lurgan Townscape Heritage (LTH) project will commence this month.
Working collaboratively since early 2017, ABC Council along with local social partners, statutory and voluntary sector organisations helped secure the necessary funding to turn the plans into an exciting reality.
Supporting the restoration of twenty-five historic properties within the town’s Conservation Area over the next five years, the LTH project will help protect the area’s past and unique character.
With repairs to roofs, windows, structural integrity and architectural features, the restoration will bring vacant floors back into use and revive historic shop fronts.
Underpinning this ethical stewardship, the LTH project will also see the delivery of 50 community-based events and activities aimed at increasing the understanding and enjoyment of the town’s unique heritage, while also contributing to the viability and sustainability of the town centre.
Focusing on the built and natural environment; local people; arts; culture and traditional skills; the events will help the Lurgan community reconnect with their history and heritage, helping strengthen their sense of identity.
In addition, the events will help attract new visitors and investment, revitalising the area and repositioning Lurgan as a vibrant place to live, work and visit.
Supporting the project, Lord Mayor councillor Julie Flaherty commented: “Having a strong sense of our cultural history, heritage and identity is extremely important to us, which is why council is committed to developing and enhancing our city, towns and villages in a sustainable way and increasing community understanding and enjoyment of the natural and built environment.
“Restoring and revitalising buildings within Conservation Areas is a key part of protecting our rich and varied built heritage for current and future generations to enjoy.”
Paul Mullan, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund in Northern Ireland added: “Historic townscapes are the beating heart of local places and give them their unique identities. Projects like Lurgan Townscape Heritage can bring enormous benefits to town
centres and provide catalysis for wider regeneration that creates more businesses and jobs.
“Thanks to National Lottery players our £2m investment will help to safeguard Lurgan’s heritage and improve the quality of life for local people and visitors.
“We wish the project team and all the partners every success as they embark on their exciting and transformational project.”
The £7m LTH project is set to commence in January 2019 and will run until March 2024. To learn more contact project manager, Tony Morgan on 0300 0300 900.
