The concluding phase of a £2 million Environmental Improvement Scheme serving Rathfriland, Gilford and Markethill has started in Markethill, with contractors now operating on site.

The initiative forms part of the Small Settlements Regeneration Programme and is jointly funded by the Department for Communities (DfC), the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.

Since work began in March 2026, Rathfriland and Gilford have seen major upgrades to their look and usability. Markethill is the final town to benefit, with Northstone delivering works there through to Spring 2027.

Activity has begun outside the Dolphin Takeaway and will move up Main Street in stages. The programme will upgrade paving, repair kerbs and install new street furniture, improving the town centre experience for residents, businesses and visitors.

Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Lavelle McIlwrath, said: "It is fantastic to see this important investment reaching its final phase in Markethill. The Environmental Improvement Scheme has already delivered significant enhancements in Rathfriland and Gilford, and these final works will further improve the appearance and accessibility of Markethill town centre.

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"We appreciate the support and patience of local residents and businesses during the construction period and look forward to seeing the positive impact these improvements will have on the town for many years to come."

The works will be delivered by Northstone in carefully managed phases to minimise disruption wherever possible. Access for residents, businesses and emergency services will be maintained at all times, and every effort will be made to reduce inconvenience.

Communities Minister Lyons said: "The Covid Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme is a great example of how DfC, DAERA and DfI have collaborated with our partners in local councils to address long standing issues in our smaller settlements. I am pleased to hear that the Environmental Improvement Scheme works in Rathfriland and Gilford are nearing completion and that the scheme is now entering into the final phase of delivery in Markethill. This investment reflects our shared commitment to strengthening rural towns, supporting their long-term sustainability, and helping to ensure they remain vibrant places to live, work and visit."

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said: "I am delighted my Department was able to contribute to this street works scheme in Markethill through the Small Settlements Regeneration Programme, which will deliver improvements at street level in the village for residents and visitors alike.

"The Small Settlements Regeneration Programme has played an important role over the last five years in delivering public realm enhancements for pedestrians in villages across the north to walk, wheel and cycle, which in turn is an important driver in boosting wellbeing. This all helps to meet our Climate Change ambitions, grow our economy, improve wellbeing and support a thriving region where people want to live, work, visit and invest."

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said "I am delighted to see works getting underway in Markethill as the next phase of this important Environmental Improvement Scheme under the Covid Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme.

"This investment is a good example of what can be achieved when government departments and council work together to support rural communities, and the improvements planned for Markethill will enhance the village for those who live, work and spend time there.

"By investing in schemes such as this, we are helping to build strong, sustainable and diverse rural communities for the future."