The formulation of a regeneration strategy, aimed at revitalising the Craigavon area, has got underway.

Craigavon, which received town status in the 1960s, has issues that need resolved before it can reach its full potential, according to Stormont Minister Margaret Ritchie.

Launching work on the town's Integrated Development Framework, Ms Ritchie said: "The framework will help by identifying the full regeneration potential of the area as a whole and will provide a basis on which my department can use its regeneration powers, if necessary, to ensure realisation of this potential."

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The Minister said appointed consultants, Tribal Consulting Ltd, will work closely with both public and private sector interests, particularly those who trade or own land in the area.

The proposals will identify key sites for regeneration, in particular how surplus land can be exploited to assist in the regeneration of the three town centres in Craigavon.

It will also consider transport, access and parking arrangements and advise on how public areas can be improved to enhance the appeal of Lurgan, Portadown and Central Craigavon to shoppers, visitors and investors.

Major public realm regeneration schemes, worth £3.5m, are already underway in Lurgan and Portadown.

Minister Ritchie said her department will work closely with the local council and hopes to have the preparation works completed this year.

Craigavon Mayor Sydney Anderson welcomed the commencement of the planning process.

"As one of the largest urban centres in Northern Ireland it's crucial that the full potential of the area is identified quickly and realistically," he said.

(PR/JM)