A public consultation has launched for an Environmental Improvement Scheme in Gilford, Markethill and Rathfriland in Northern Ireland.

The scheme, which was put in place by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Council, will see an investment of over £2 million in rural towns as part of the Small Settlements Regeneration Programme.

Designed to complement the rural towns experience the proposed investment will deliver new pavement treatments, enhance shared space, improve street furniture and provide signage and decorative features.

Funding for the scheme has been received from the Department for Communities (DFC), the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and the Department for Infrastructure (DFI).

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council said: "The Council are keen to hear from residents, businesses and community groups within the areas and encourage people to get involved in the proposed developments."

A public questionnaire survey will be carried out in-person in each of the towns on 16 September to gather opinions. A short survey can also be completed on the council's website.

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Consultation events in each area start on the 26 September in Gilford Community Centre, 27 September in Rathfriland Community Centre and 4 October in Gosford Forest Park from 2.00pm to 7.30pm.

Speaking of the start of the public consultation Alderman Margaret Tinsley, the Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Bnabridge and Craigavon Borough said: "It is exciting to see the start of the public consultation for the Environmental Improvement Scheme in Gilford, Markethill and Rathfriland. As part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to regeneration, this investment will see small but significant enhancements to these rural areas. The consultation is now open, and this is a fantastic opportunity for those who live and work there, to express their views and have their say to help improve our rural towns and villages for everyone."

A spokesperson for the Department for Infrastructure said: "The Department for Infrastructure is pleased to contribute towards the Small Settlements Regeneration Programme which has already brought many benefits to rural communities. I would encourage the residents of Gilford, Markethill and Rathfriland to respond to the consultation and make the most of the improvement plans for their local areas."

Encouraging the public to have their say, Teresa O’Neill, Director of Rural Affairs in DAERA said: "I’m delighted this public consultation has now launched providing residents, businesses and community groups within Gilford, Rathfriland and Markethill the opportunity to have a say on environmental improvements that will regenerate their local area."

The Director of Regional Development in the Department for Communities stated: "The Small Settlements Regeneration Programme has provided more than £26m to empower councils in revitalising the economies of our smaller rural towns and villages. Initiatives such as the Environmental Improvement Schemes will not only enhance community spaces and increase economic opportunities, but they will also provide a more attractive environment for residents and visitors. I would encourage everyone to share their insights, ideas and aspirations and to play an essential role in these exciting transformations."