Works has commenced on a £100,000 arts project in the Craigavon area.

Located in the Drumbeg district of Brownlow, the scheme will provide an enclosed garden area with a number of commissioned sculptures and interactive lighting on vacant land overlooking a nearby roundabout.

Drumbeg North and South Residents Association has worked with Craigavon Borough Council's Arts Development team to create a new focal point for the local community.

Red Apple Arts was enlisted to ensure the designs reflect the surrounding area.

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The NI Housing Executive has provided the necessary land, and the council has agreed to manage the installation of the scheme.

The authority has also accepted responsibility for the future maintenance of the space upon completion.

Works have been funded by a Department of Social Development contribution of £85,000 under the Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund, with a further £15,000.00 coming from the ‘Re-imaging Communities Programme’ for the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie the project "great news for the people in Drumbeg".

"The new environmental improvements will help develop a sense of community identity and pride in the area. It will also help create a more attractive neighbourhood where residents will want to live and bring up their families.

"The scheme will regenerate an interface area and will be welcomed by the residents."

(PR/BMcC)