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Plans to regenerate Lurgan's historic town centre have been boosted with a new £2 million grant.
The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) awarded the funds to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council (ABC Council) to support the five-year project.
The Townscape Heritage scheme will support the repair and conservation of 25 historic properties within the town's Conservation Area, bringing back into sustainable use much-needed, valuable commercial floor space and providing new residential accommodation opportunities.
Announcing the award, Head of HLF for Northern Ireland, Paul Mullan, said: "Thanks to National Lottery players, this heritage-led regeneration will transform Lurgan's historic streetscape, helping to attract new residents and businesses to the town centre and boost the local economy.
"The Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council area was chosen as an investment priority for HLF in 2013. Since then we've worked with local groups and organisations to develop heritage projects that matter to them and bring real benefits to local people. And I am delighted to report that as we come to the end of our current Strategic Plan, HLF has supported 34 different projects and invested more than £6m into the local area."
Welcoming the award, Councillor Julie Flaherty, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, said: "I am thrilled that the Lurgan Townscape Heritage scheme has secured almost £2m from the HLF, and I am delighted to announce that ABC Council is adding over £2m in additional funds to support the scheme. Heritage-led regeneration is a great way to promote civic pride and access to local places, and I welcome this scheme, along with a number of complimentary heritage activities."
Councillor Joe Nelson, Chair of Lurgan Townscape Heritage Partnership added: "Our council has committed to developing and enhancing this borough in a sustainable way, 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."
(CM/MH)
